From concrete to bamboo
A research on the reflection of Pakistan’s political and social circumstances in Yasmeen Lari’s architecture throughout her career.
G. Witte (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
J.C. Edens – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / A)
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Abstract
This research gives an answer to the question question ‘How is the switch in architectural language of Yasmeen Lari connected to the social and political context in Pakistan throughout her career?’. It explores three key themes: feminism, nationalism, and economic inequality. Lari's architectural humanitarian works, aimed at empowering women in rural communities and addressing economic disparities, align more with secular liberal feminism than modern Islamic feminism. Her initiatives promotes financial independence for women, diverging from the focus of modern Islamic feminism on the male caring for the women rather than equal gender rights. Lari's response to economic inequality involves providing marginalized communities with safe housing and income sources, aiming to foster financial independence and potentially mitigate future conflicts. Additionally, she contributes to Pakistani nationalism by incorporating traditional vernacular methodologies into her designs, thereby preserving national culture and uniting a divided nation. While nationalism didn't directly drive Lari's architectural shift, economic inequality played a significant role, alongside the potential influence of feminist ideals. Ultimately, Lari's transition to sustainable architecture is also motivated by the increasing natural disasters caused by global warming, an aspect which is not directly connected to the social and political conext of Pakistan.