Celebrating Women's Month and Women's Day at KMH

At KMH Architects, we are proud to celebrate Women's Month and Women's Day in South Africa, a time dedicated to honoring the achievements and contributions of women in all spheres of life. This month, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable women within our firm and across the architectural field who continue to inspire and break new ground.?

In an industry traditionally dominated by men, the contributions of women architects are not only essential but transformative. At KMH, we believe in fostering an inclusive environment where diversity of thought and experience leads to innovative and groundbreaking design. To celebrate this special occasion, we’ve gathered insights and reflections from our talented staff. Below, they share their thoughts about the female architects who have inspired them and the impact these role models have had.?

Join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of women in architecture, as we highlight them through the eyes of our staff.?

Brira Aftab?

"There are countless inspiring women architects to choose from, but for me, Marina Tabassum is one of my favorite architects. This is because of her innovative and sustainable approach to design and the simplicity of her work. Her work seamlessly integrates local materials and traditional construction techniques, reflecting a deep respect for cultural heritage. She is renowned for projects like the Bait Ur Rouf Mosque, which embodies simplicity, spirituality, and community focus. Tabassum’s dedication to creating environmentally responsible and socially relevant architecture sets her apart. Her emphasis on natural light, ventilation, and harmony with the surrounding landscape results in spaces that are not only functional but also profoundly inspiring. Her profound designs and ethical principles resonate deeply with my values."?

Quadash van Wyk?

Brira's admiration for Marina Tabassum echoes the sentiment of many in our field who appreciate sustainable and culturally respectful design. Adding to this, Quadash Van Wyk highlights the groundbreaking work of Zaha Hadid:?

"For Women's Month, I'd love to highlight Zaha Hadid as my favourite female architect. Zaha Hadid's innovative designs and pioneering spirit have always inspired me. Her work is a testament to the power of pushing boundaries and reimagining what architecture can be. From the fluid forms of the Heydar Aliyev Center to the dynamic lines of the London Aquatics Centre, Hadid's designs have transformed our perception of space and structure. Women in the built environment face unique challenges, but Zaha Hadid's legacy reminds us that perseverance, creativity, and vision can lead to groundbreaking achievements. Her journey encourages us to embrace our individuality and to pursue our passions fearlessly, regardless of the obstacles we might encounter."?

Ruanne Dorasami?

Building on Quadash's appreciation for pioneering spirits, Ruanne Dorasami reflects on her personal journey in architecture and the support network she has found:?

"I L-O-V-E what I do, and do what I L-O-V-E - this applies to all aspects of my life as an individual. Architecture has afforded me an opportunity that I will forever be grateful for... I have been exposed to many different people from different backgrounds, nationalities, and cultures. This has in turn encouraged my career growth, in exposing me to a wealth of knowledge from various people (both men and women), that I have worked with through the years. I believe mentoring relationships, networking in our field, even so in our company, creates a strong support network within the workplace. Women should know that there can be a great work-life balance that can include your career, family, sport, philanthropy work, hobbies, and spirituality."?

Thandeka Cindi?

Ruanne's emphasis on mentorship and balance resonates with Thandeka Cindi's admiration for Mariam Kamara's community-focused work:?

"Mariam Kamara is an architect from Niamey, Niger, known for blending modern design with her community's cultural essence. She harmonises traditional architectural techniques with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in visually pleasing and eco-friendly buildings. Her use of local materials and traditional methods is part of why her work respects and reflects its surroundings, whilst enhancing inhabitants' quality of life as well. Her innovative yet culturally respectful approach is why she inspires and empowers me as an aspiring female architect. To women in the built environment, remember, your unique perspective is a powerful tool. Embrace the challenges and let your creativity be guided by your vision and your roots. Every obstacle you encounter is an opportunity to create and learn something meaningful. Your voice and your ideas can shape the world."?

Brigitta Lutsch?

Thandeka's words on embracing challenges align with Brigitta Lutsch's reflections on the concept of 'grit' and the inspirational figures she admires:?

"I thought it best to consider cumulative inspiration from women across various backgrounds, all with one thing in common - what I would like to term 'grit'. A defiance against expected odds, a rebellion against the mediocre, and those who have challenged, battled, and faced their own demons to arrive at a point they only consider to be a platform to the next adventure, never relenting to pressing onwards. Such a woman is Jasmin Paris, the first woman finisher of the Barkley Marathons. Closer to home, these women figures find themselves among my friends, ex-special forces army combatant turned accountant, and ex-colleague, who inspire me to be better, to think further, to suit up and approach the challenges with grit and give hope that I will not be overcome."?

Biljana Krdzalic?

Adding to the theme of resilience and courage, Biljana Krdzalic reflects on the versatile and community-centered career of Lina Bo Bardi:?

"My favourite female architect is Lina Bo Bardi (1914–1992), an Italian-born Brazilian Modernist architect. She designed daring, distinctive structures. Lina was aware of the power of architecture and the histories with which it engaged. She wanted to create spaces for communities. Her remarkable and versatile career included roles as an editor, graphic designer, scenographer, curator, educator, and—foremost—as an astonishing architect. She was ahead of her time, promoting cultural sustainability in the broadest sense. A quote that inspires me: “A woman’s place is in the build: leading, creating, and transforming the industry one project at a time."?

Smaragda Thalassinos?

Biljana's appreciation for Lina Bo Bardi's multifaceted career is echoed by Smaragda Thalassinos, who highlights the need for boldness and bravery in the field:?

"Any female architect who has managed to make a name for herself deserves an award. Zaha Hadid is the obvious choice, as the poster-child of successful females in this industry, encapsulating everything we need to aspire to be: Bold, brave, unapologetic, brilliant."?

Conclusion?

As we celebrate Women's Month and Women's Day at KMH, we are reminded of the incredible women who have shaped our industry and continue to inspire us. From the innovative designs of Marina Tabassum and Zaha Hadid to the community-focused work of Mariam Kamara and Lina Bo Bardi, these architects have shown us the power of vision, perseverance, and creativity.?

At KMH, we are committed to fostering an environment where women architects can thrive and make their mark. We celebrate the diverse perspectives and experiences they bring, knowing that their contributions are vital to the future of architecture. Here's to the women who lead, create, and transform our industry—today and every day.?

#womensday