Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic — Seven extraordinary architectural projects across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa have been named winners of the 2025 Aga Khan Award for Architecture, celebrating designs that transcend aesthetics to address profound social, cultural, and environmental challenges. The prestigious triennial award, established in 1977 by His Highness the Aga Khan, carries a total prize of $1 million shared among the winners.
From portable homes addressing climate displacement in Bangladesh to a cultural innovation hub in Palestine, this year’s laureates reflect architecture’s evolving role in shaping communities and fostering resilience amid global change. Among them is Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum, whose Khudi Bari project — lightweight, bamboo-and-steel structures designed for flood-affected populations — was hailed by the jury as “profoundly optimistic” and a model for responsive, humane design.
In China’s Inner Mongolia, West Wusutu Village Community Centre by Inner Mongolian Grand Architecture Design was recognised for its adaptive use of reclaimed bricks and its role in strengthening social and cultural cohesion. “The dynamics of this project significantly enhance social interaction, cultural experience, and environmental resilience,” the jury noted.
Egypt’s Revitalisation of Historic Esna by Takween Integrated Community Development also earned acclaim for its participatory approach to urban heritage conservation. The project’s phased strategy — blending restoration with local enterprise development — exemplifies a holistic model of sustainable city renewal.
Two winners from Iran underscore the diversity of this year’s selection. ZAV Architects’ Majara Residence and Community Redevelopment on Hormuz Island reimagines tourism architecture with its vibrant domed structures that echo the island’s ochre soil. In Tehran, KA Architecture Studio’s Jahad Metro Plaza transforms a once-dilapidated transit hub into a civic landmark through craftsmanship, heritage sensitivity, and a renewed emphasis on public space.
Pakistan’s contribution, Vision Pakistan by DB Studios in Islamabad, was honoured for its inventive design serving disadvantaged youth. Combining local and Arab craft traditions, the multi-storey education centre “is full of light, spatially interesting, economically efficient, and highly distinct,” according to the jury.
Rounding out the winners is Wonder Cabinet by AAU Anastas in Bethlehem, a space dedicated to craft, innovation, and cultural exchange. Described as “an architecture of connection,” the project transcends its political context to become a beacon of identity and resistance through cultural production.
The Aga Khan Award continues to champion architecture that serves communities where Muslims have a significant presence, prioritising social impact, cultural continuity, and contextual sensitivity. The 2025 prize ceremony will take place on 15 September at the Toktogul Satylganov Kyrgyz National Philharmonic in Bishkek, bringing together architects, urbanists, and visionaries from around the globe to celebrate the transformative power of design.
