Hassan Fathy

Pioneered sustainable architecture for low-income communities using traditional materials and techniques.

Hassan Fathy (1900–1989) was an Egyptian architect whose revolutionary approach to housing transformed how the world views sustainable design. Unlike mainstream architects of his time, Fathy rejected industrialized materials like steel and concrete, focusing instead on reviving ancient Egyptian and Arab building techniques. His most famous project, New Gourna, aimed to relocate a village community using mud-brick construction, natural ventilation, and communal spaces tailored to local cultural needs.

Fathy's philosophy centered on 'architecture for the poor'. He believed affordable housing should not sacrifice dignity or aesthetics. By training local laborers in traditional methods, he empowered communities to build their own homes, reducing reliance on expensive imports. Despite facing criticism from modernists, his work influenced global movements in eco-architecture and earned UNESCO's recognition for cultural preservation.

His legacy includes over 160 projects, from schools to entire villages, emphasizing climate-responsive design. Fathy’s ideas remain vital today, as seen in initiatives like earth architecture advocating for low-carbon building solutions.