Hanif Kara, the Uganda-born engineer known for bringing architects’ improbable visions to life, has been announced as the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Soane medal. His mathematical expertise and innovative approach to structural design have been integral to the realization of some of the most daring buildings of the 21st century. Kara’s role has been described as that of a co-designer and problem re-framer, rather than a traditional engineer.
From collaborating with architects like Zaha Hadid on groundbreaking projects such as the Phaeno science centre in Germany, to working with Norman Foster on the Bloomberg HQ in London, Kara has always pushed the boundaries of structural design. His focus on sustainability and using as little material as possible while creating lasting structures reflects his commitment to addressing environmental concerns.
Despite his past work on projects like the Phaeno science centre that used significant amounts of materials and emitted high levels of carbon dioxide, Kara now emphasizes the importance of reusing existing buildings and reducing the environmental impact of new construction. He is currently involved in innovative research on structural timber, clean concrete, and other materials that have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in construction.
As he receives the Soane medal, Kara’s career and contributions to the field of architecture highlight the importance of rethinking traditional design approaches to create sustainable and environmentally conscious structures. The lecture he will deliver at the Royal Academy on November 26 will likely emphasize the need for continued innovation and collaboration in the construction industry to address the challenges of climate change.
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