Tamayouz Award Reveals Winners for 2024 Women in Architecture

The Tamayouz Excellence Award has revealed its 2024 Women in Architecture and Construction Award winners, honouring outstanding achievements by four women across the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region. Since its inception in 2013 as part of the larger Tamayouz program, this award has spotlighted women's leadership, innovation, and public contributions in architecture and construction. 

The awards are split into two categories, each spotlighting unique contributions of two architects. The Rising Star category celebrates fresh voices and emerging talents, while the Women of Outstanding Achievement category recognises established leaders whose work has made a lasting impact on the field. 

The Rising Star Category 

Syrian architect and academic Dr. Hala Aslan is renowned for her dedication to heritage preservation, especially her efforts in rehabilitating conflict-impacted sites like Aleppo. With years of collaboration with international organisations, including the UN and ICOMOS, she has established herself as a pivotal figure in architectural conservation.

Architect Lebriz Atan Karaatli, founder of KAAT Architecture + Urban, is celebrated for her nuanced approach to design, where she effortlessly fuses contemporary elements with local traditions. Her work stands out for its aesthetic appeal and functionality, reflecting her commitment to thoughtful, innovative design that respects cultural context. 

Women of Outstanding Achievement 

Lebanese architect Hana Alamuddin, founder of Almimariya Architects and Designers for Sustainable Development, brings over 25 years of expertise in sustainable architecture, urban design and landscape projects. After studying in the UK and the US, she returned to Lebanon to support post-war reconstruction, prioritising heritage preservation and environmental sustainability. Known for her hands-on approach, she led multiple impactful projects across residential design and urban planning. Her notable contributions, such as the Peasant House Museum and social housing initiatives, showcase her commitment to creating spaces that thoughtfully serve communities and honour local heritage.

Palestinian architect Amal Abuelhawa, manager of the Jerusalem Old Cities Revitalization Program, is highly respected for her commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of Palestine’s historic cities, especially Jerusalem and Nablus. One of her most impactful achievements is the creation of the first-ever database for the Old City of Jerusalem, a crucial resource for protecting its heritage. Even amid the challenging realities of Israeli occupation, Amal has set a benchmark for conservation practices, ensuring these historic sites remain lively and integral to their communities. 

Photography Credit: Tamayouz Excellence Award