Ibrahim Fawakherji
Architectural Writer, Researcher & Editorial Columnist at ArchUp
About
Fawakherji is a pen name and critical column on architecture, cities, design culture, technology, memory, and the social meaning of space. It treats buildings and urban life as evidence of power, habit, aspiration, economy, and the daily negotiations through which cities are made.
The column gathers essays that move between close observation and broader architectural argument, from housing economics and temporal urbanism to architectural media, competitions, city life, artificial intelligence, and the cultural memory of buildings. The archive below represents a growing body of writing currently being shaped into a forthcoming collected volume.
Its areas of interest include architectural criticism, urbanism, design culture, architectural media, cities, housing, society, technology, and AI, giving the page a focused role as the central column hub for this body of work.
Selected Essays
Living on Rooftops: From Shelter of the Poor to Luxury of the Elite
IntroductionRooftop living has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades. What was once a refuge for the underprivileged has now become a symbol of…
Building with Rammed Earth: History, Benefits, and Modern Techniques
Rammed earth is one of the oldest and most sustainable construction techniques, dating back thousands of years. This method uses natural soil, compacted within…
California Wildfires: Impact on Architecture and Urban Planning
Introduction: The state of California is experiencing devastating wildfires, particularly in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. These fires have consumed thousands of…
Modern Architecture and Suspended Structures: Innovative Techniques for Sustainable Design
Modern architecture has witnessed significant advancements with the advent of suspended structures, which rely on tension elements such as cables or fabric membranes. This…
Where Architectural Visualization is Heading: The Impact of AI on Rendering Specialists
Architectural visualization has long been a critical tool in the design process, helping architects, clients, and stakeholders translate abstract ideas into vivid, tangible representations….
Case Studies in Green Building: Innovative Eco-Friendly Designs and Modern Decor
Introduction to Sustainable ArchitectureSustainable architecture aims to minimize the negative environmental impact of buildings through efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy,…
Understanding the Weight of Backfill Materials: Implications for Construction and Architecture
Understanding the Weight of Backfill Materials: Implications for Construction and ArchitectureWhen planning a construction project, one of the most overlooked yet critical considerations is…
Is Flushing Water Convincing? Rethinking Our Daily Habits in Light of Sustainability
Is Flushing Water Convincing? Rethinking Our Daily Habits in Light of SustainabilityIn today’s modern world, flushing toilets are an essential part of our daily…
Thinking of Opening Your Own Architecture Firm? Here’s What You Need to Know
The allure of starting an architectural practice is strong for many professionals. The freedom to bring your creative vision to life, shape your projects…
Luxury Architecture and the Impact of Bitcoin Prices on Construction Projects
In recent years, the relationship between architecture and cryptocurrency has grown increasingly intertwined, particularly within the luxury sector. The volatile nature of Bitcoin and…
Political Architecture: Designing Embassies and the Protocol of Official Architecture
Architecture has always played a subtle yet crucial role in projecting the power, stability, and cultural identity of a nation. This is especially evident…
Final Report on Housing in the United States (2024) and Expectations for 2025
As 2024 comes to a close, the housing market in the United States faces significant shifts shaped by economic and policy changes. This report…
Sustainability: Reality or Marketing? A Deep-Dive Analysis
Sustainability is a buzzword that has become increasingly ubiquitous in the architecture and construction industry over the past few decades. Companies are touting their…
Cities Shaped by Wheels: The Influence of Cars on Urban Planning and Architectural Evolution
The history of cities and the car is a tale of adaptation and transformation, where the evolution of the automobile has not only shaped…
The Essential Elements of Islamic Ornamentation and Architecture: An In-Depth Exploration
The Essential Elements of Islamic Ornamentation and Architecture: An In-Depth ExplorationThe allure of Islamic ornamentation lies in its balance between mathematical precision and artistic…
The Impact of Bitcoin’s on Architecture and Construction
The Impact of Bitcoin’s Surge on Architecture and ConstructionIn recent years, Bitcoin has captured the world’s attention, not only as a financial tool but…
The Impact of Video Games like Minecraft and Fortnite on a Child’s Perception of Architecture
The Impact of Video Games like Minecraft and Fortnite on a Child’s Perception of ArchitectureThe influence of video games such as Minecraft and Fortnite…
Manual Craftsmanship vs. Modern Machinery: The Role of Cranes in Accelerating Construction and Their Environmental Consequences
Manual Craftsmanship vs. Modern Machinery: The Role of Cranes in Accelerating Construction and Their Environmental ConsequencesIntroductionThe evolution of construction techniques has always been a…
The Hopes of the Next Generation for Architectural Spaces: Ambitions Amid Growing Constraints
The Hopes of the Next Generation for Architectural Spaces: Ambitions Amid Growing ConstraintsIntroductionThe quest for affordable housing is becoming increasingly challenging for the upcoming…
Is Islamic Architecture a Real Phenomenon or an Orientalist Construct? A Journey Through Architectural History
Is Islamic Architecture a Real Phenomenon or an Orientalist Construct? A Journey Through Architectural HistoryThe term “Islamic architecture” often conjures images of grand mosques…
Which Is Better: The Male or Female Architect? A Comparative Exploration
Which Is Better: The Male or Female Architect? A Comparative ExplorationThe architectural field has long been shaped by discussions of gender dynamics, with people…
Financial Management in Architectural Practice: Challenges, Strategies, and Opportunities
Financial Management in Architectural Practice: Challenges, Strategies, and OpportunitiesFinancial management is one of the most critical determinants of success or failure for any architectural…
How Artificial Intelligence Will Transform Architecture: Generational Impacts and Future Market Outlook (2030-2040)
Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as one of the most transformative forces reshaping the architecture profession. Through automation, algorithm-driven design, and enhanced collaboration tools,…
Exploring Manhattan: The Architectural Allure of New York City
Introduction: Manhattan as a Symbol of CivilizationManhattan, a vibrant and bustling borough of New York City, stands as a powerful emblem of civilization, drawing…
The Broader Impact of Sustainability in Architecture: Beyond the 11% Concrete Carbon Footprint
When discussing sustainability in architecture, we often hear that concrete alone contributes 11% to global carbon emissions. While this figure is significant, it’s only…
Cutting Carbon: Strategies for Sustainable Life Science Facilities
New York, October 23, 2024 — Yesterday, the notable event titled “Cutting Carbon: Strategies for Sustainable Life Science Facilities”, organized by AIA New York,…
Exploring the Best of Manhattan: A Guide to Unforgettable Experiences
Discovering the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)The Museum of Modern Art, often abbreviated as MoMA, stands as a pillar in the world of contemporary…
A Pizza Lover’s Guide to Iconic New York Pizza
Abitino’s Pizzeria: A Taste of NostalgiaAbitino’s Pizzeria stands as a cherished institution in New York, celebrated not only for its mouthwatering pizza but also…
How New York’s Streets and Skyscrapers Crafted Its Food Culture
The Culinary Evolution of New York: How City Planning Shaped Its Food CultureIntroductionNew York City is more than just a collection of buildings and…
Carbon-Free Cities Conference – UN Headquarters, New York
The “Carbon-Free Cities: Climate Action in the Built Environment” conference, held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on October 28, 2024, gathered…
Introduction to Unbuilt Architecture
Unbuilt architecture refers to designs and proposals for buildings and structures that, despite displaying creativity, innovation, and ambition, were never constructed. Throughout history, architects…
The Influence of Currency Fluctuations on Architecture
Understanding Currency Fluctuations and Their Impact on Material CostsCurrency fluctuations, essentially the changes in the value of a nation’s currency relative to others, can…
Effective Management of Diverse Personalities in Construction Teams
IntroductionManaging work teams in the construction field requires a precise understanding of the nature of the different personalities that make up the team. Construction…
The Science and Practical Implications of the Concept of ‘Jinx’ on Performance
Understanding the Concept of ‘Jinx’The concept of a ‘jinx’ is deeply rooted in historical and cultural narratives, often involving the belief that certain individuals…
A Deep Understanding of the Relationship Between Astrology and Architecture: How the Sky Influences the Earth
The connection between astrology and architecture has deep historical roots, where humans used astrological knowledge to design homes and cities in harmony with cosmic…
How Architects Can Build Wealth: Insights and Strategies
Discover how architects can significantly increase their net worth through income diversification, real estate investment, and leveraging technology. Learn from high-net-worth architects and adopt…
The future of quantum architecture and computing
Quantum computing holds huge potential to transform many fields including architecture. Here’s how:Improved architectural design: Using quantum computing, complex data related to the environment,…
The Future of Transportation: Power Plants for Electric Cars
1. IntroductionThe future of transportation is rapidly changing, and with it comes new advancements in architecture and design. Traditional gas stations are being replaced…
The Impact of Oil on Architecture: Exploring the Hidden Connection
1. IntroductionArchitecture is an art form that is deeply influenced by the world around it. From materials to design principles, every aspect of architecture…
The Power of Architectural Journalism: Uncovering its Influence in the Industry
1. IntroductionArchitectural journalism plays a vital role in the architecture and design industry, serving as a platform for critical analysis, storytelling, and the dissemination…
The Intersection of Design and Health: Creating Obesity-Friendly Spaces
IntroductionIn an era where obesity rates are skyrocketing, it’s becoming increasingly important for architects and designers to consider the impact of their work on…
Transforming the Mundane: How Architects Bring Beauty to Life
1. Introduction: Embracing the power of architectureArchitecture is more than just creating functional spaces; it is about transforming the mundane into something extraordinary. Architects…
The Power of Architecture: Transforming Culture Through Design
Definition of cultural washing in architectureArchitecture has always played a crucial role in shaping the world around us. From ancient civilizations to modern cities,…
Cracking the Code: How Architects Keep Crowds Under Control
architecture enthusiasts!When you think of architects, you might picture them designing beautiful buildings or grand structures. But did you know that architects also play…
The Importance of the Charter of the Architectural Profession: A Comprehensive Guide for Professionals
The Importance of the Charter of the Architectural Profession: A Comprehensive Guide for Professionals1. Introduction to the Charter of the Architectural ProfessionThe architectural profession…
The Dark Reality of Fraud in Contracting and Architecture Projects: A Devastating Blow
1. Introduction: Shedding light on a dark realityIn the world of architecture and contracting, fraud has become an all too prevalent and devastating reality….
How to Choose Marble: Sourcing, Installation and Care
1. IntroductionWhen comparing materials, distinguish natural marble from marble alternatives according to the intended use and required performance.Marble has long been revered for its…
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Architects’ Salaries and the Design Industry
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Architects’ Salaries and the Design IndustryThe Rise of AI in ArchitectureThe integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architecture…
Building Blocks of Imagination: Exploring the Intersection of LEGO and Modern Architecture
The Origins and Evolution of LEGO: A Reflection of Architectural AdvancementsThe Inception of LEGO and Its Architectural Parallels LEGO, synonymous with creativity and innovation,…
The Interplay of Crowd Psychology and Architectural Spaces
The Interplay of Crowd Psychology and Architectural SpacesInfluence of Architecture on Crowd BehaviorArchitecture, more than just the art of designing buildings, significantly influences how…
Building a Space Colony: Let’s Get Our Alien Architect On!
Environmental and technological challengesHey there, space enthusiasts! Are you ready to unleash your inner alien architect and build the ultimate space colony? Design and…
Which comes first: skyscrapers or society, the egg or the chicken
The first point: the history of skyscrapersBeginningsFounding: The first skyscraper was the Home Insurance Building in Chicago, completed in 1885. This building, which was…
Introduction: Architecture and Social Engineering – Shaping Societies over Time
Architecture, more than just a building art, represents the embodiment of culture and social identity. Historically, architecture has evolved to reflect social and political…
Revolutionizing Art with AI: The Stunning Reimagining of ‘The Savior’ Masterpiece
Reimagining “Salvator Mundi”: Artificial Intelligence is reshaping artistic historyArt Meets Technology: Renewing a Classic PaintingIn an age where technology and art converge, we witnessed…
Soane’s London: A Beacon of Light in the Heart of Europe
Illuminating the Darkness: The Advent of Oil LampsIn the early 18th century, London witnessed a remarkable transformation that would redefine its nightscape forever. The…
Architecture Transformations in the Age of AI: Exploring the Impacts of Magnific AI and Krea AI
Architecture Transformations in the Age of AI: Exploring the Impacts of Magnific AI and Krea AIIntroduction to artificial intelligence in architectureIn this section, a…
AI Revolution: Lara Croft goes from the pixels of old games to the splendor of virtual reality
introductionIn a world that is becoming more advanced day by day thanks to technology, artificial intelligence is emerging as an effective tool not only…
The impact of gold prices on architecture
In 2023, the price of gold witnessed record highs, with expectations ranging between $1,500 and $4,000 per ounce, and an average forecast of $2,188…
Deciphering the Future: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Realm of Enigmatic Architectural Innovations
Innovations in Modern ArchitectureAs the world of architecture continues to evolve, so too does the need for innovative and boundary-pushing designs. In recent years,…
The Beauty of the Salman Style: A Journey into Architectural Heritage
The Salman Style blends Arab-Islamic heritage with modernity, creating a unique architectural identity in Riyadh. This article explores the historical background of the Salman…
Editorial Philosophy
Independent architectural analysis based on research, critical thinking, and documented sources.