A staggering array of architectural icons have left their mark on history but few are women. Oscar Niemeyer's iconic Brazilian designs may have captivated a generation while Lina Bo Bardi's Italian-inspired creations in Brazil continue to inspire today. Her Teatro Oficina in São Paulo, once hailed as the best theatre in the world by this paper, remains an exemplary model of inclusive design.
In contrast, women are noticeably absent from mainstream depictions of architects. Even iconic buildings like Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School style, heavily reliant on his first employee Marion Mahony Griffin's designs, fail to give credit to the pioneering female architect who played a pivotal role in shaping the movement. The story is similar with Eileen Gray's renowned E-1027 house, which was vandalized by none other than Le Corbusier himself.
Meanwhile, Denise Scott Brown, co-principal of the renowned firm Venturi Brown Roberts & Goodman, has been denied recognition for her outstanding contributions to architecture. Her work on groundbreaking projects like the Sainsbury Wing of the National Gallery in London remains a testament to her innovative designs.
The RIBA's recent report reveals that women are facing significant barriers in the profession, from sexism and harassment to unequal pay and lack of representation. Despite this, there is hope for change as flexible working, mentorship programs, and hiring reforms begin to make an impact on other industries. Architecture must follow suit.
Recent studies show that companies with greater gender diversity tend to generate higher profits, underscoring the need for inclusivity in the industry. Women's strengths lie in collaborative communication, which could be the key to unlocking innovative designs that cater to a more diverse range of needs.
The time has come for women architects to take their rightful place alongside their male counterparts. As we celebrate the brilliance of female architects like Kazuyo Sejima and Mariam Issoufou, it is essential to acknowledge their contributions to some of our most iconic buildings. From A la Ronde's eccentric 16-sided home in Exmouth, Devon, to Liz Diller's community-focused designs, women are leaving an indelible mark on the world of architecture.
However, a more significant shift is required – one that fosters teamwork, better dialogue with clients, and considerations of inclusivity. The gradual culture shift that has taken place in other industries must now be replicated within the architecture profession. Women's increasing presence in the field can only lead to a more diverse range of designs, ones that reflect the lived experience of half of the human population.
Ultimately, it is not just about giving due credit for women's contributions but making tangible, practical changes that benefit everyone. The time has come for the architecture profession to build on the progress made in other industries and create a more inclusive environment that celebrates the creativity and beauty of all architects – regardless of their gender.
In contrast, women are noticeably absent from mainstream depictions of architects. Even iconic buildings like Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie School style, heavily reliant on his first employee Marion Mahony Griffin's designs, fail to give credit to the pioneering female architect who played a pivotal role in shaping the movement. The story is similar with Eileen Gray's renowned E-1027 house, which was vandalized by none other than Le Corbusier himself.
Meanwhile, Denise Scott Brown, co-principal of the renowned firm Venturi Brown Roberts & Goodman, has been denied recognition for her outstanding contributions to architecture. Her work on groundbreaking projects like the Sainsbury Wing of the National Gallery in London remains a testament to her innovative designs.
The RIBA's recent report reveals that women are facing significant barriers in the profession, from sexism and harassment to unequal pay and lack of representation. Despite this, there is hope for change as flexible working, mentorship programs, and hiring reforms begin to make an impact on other industries. Architecture must follow suit.
Recent studies show that companies with greater gender diversity tend to generate higher profits, underscoring the need for inclusivity in the industry. Women's strengths lie in collaborative communication, which could be the key to unlocking innovative designs that cater to a more diverse range of needs.
The time has come for women architects to take their rightful place alongside their male counterparts. As we celebrate the brilliance of female architects like Kazuyo Sejima and Mariam Issoufou, it is essential to acknowledge their contributions to some of our most iconic buildings. From A la Ronde's eccentric 16-sided home in Exmouth, Devon, to Liz Diller's community-focused designs, women are leaving an indelible mark on the world of architecture.
However, a more significant shift is required – one that fosters teamwork, better dialogue with clients, and considerations of inclusivity. The gradual culture shift that has taken place in other industries must now be replicated within the architecture profession. Women's increasing presence in the field can only lead to a more diverse range of designs, ones that reflect the lived experience of half of the human population.
Ultimately, it is not just about giving due credit for women's contributions but making tangible, practical changes that benefit everyone. The time has come for the architecture profession to build on the progress made in other industries and create a more inclusive environment that celebrates the creativity and beauty of all architects – regardless of their gender.