The winners of the 2025 Aga Khan Award for Architecture have been announced, marking the conclusion of the 16th cycle of this internationally renowned prize. Held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic, the award recognizes innovative projects that go beyond design to strengthen communities, foster pluralism, encourage sustainability, and engage in cultural dialogue. Out of numerous submissions reviewed since 2023, seven projects were selected for their exemplary contributions, each sharing a portion of the award’s $1 million prize, the largest of its kind in the field of architecture.
This year’s award highlights seven outstanding projects across Asia and the Middle East. In Bangladesh, Khudi Bari offers climate-resilient housing for displaced communities. China’s West Wusutu Village Community Centre strengthens social and cultural life for a diverse population.
Egypt’s Revitalisation of Historic Esna demonstrates how heritage-led regeneration can revive a historic city. Iran is represented by two projects – Majara Residence on Hormuz Island, which creates sustainable tourism opportunities, and Tehran’s Jahad Metro Plaza, a metro station transformed into a vibrant urban hub. Pakistan’s Vision Pakistan in Islamabad provides a dynamic educational space for disadvantaged youth, while Palestine’s Wonder Cabinet in Bethlehem establishes a cultural hub rooted in identity and resilience.
Since its establishment in 1977 by the late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the Award has sought to redefine architecture as a force that responds to social, cultural, and environmental needs. With more than four decades of impact, nearly 10,000 projects documented, and 136 recognized to date, the Aga Khan Award for Architecture continues to highlight how design can nurture dignity, belonging, and hope in an increasingly complex world.
Introducing the Seven Award-Winning Projects of the 2025 Aga Khan Award for Architecture
1. Khudi Bari
Location: Bangladesh
Architects: Marina Tabassum Architects
A lightweight, modular housing solution built with bamboo and steel to provide shelter for communities displaced by climate change and geographic instability. The project highlights ecological innovation and advances bamboo as a global building material.
2. West Wusutu Village Community Centre
Location: Hohhot, China
Architects: Inner Mongolian Grand Architecture Design Co., Ltd./Zhang Pengju
Constructed from reclaimed bricks, this community centre offers cultural and social spaces for residents and artists. It addresses the diverse needs of a multi-ethnic population, including Hui Muslims, fostering inclusivity and cultural exchange.
3. Revitalisation of Historic Esna
Location: Esna, Egypt
Architects: Takween Integrated Community Development
A large-scale urban regeneration initiative that revives a neglected historic city through restoration, socioeconomic programmes, and innovative tourism strategies. The project demonstrates how heritage can stimulate contemporary urban life.
4. Majara Residence and Community Redevelopment
Location: Hormuz Island, Iran
Architects: ZAV Architects
A colourful complex of domed structures inspired by the island’s ochre-rich soil, designed to provide sustainable tourism accommodation. The project strengthens local economies while harmonising with Hormuz’s natural and cultural landscape.
5. Jahad Metro Plaza
Location: Tehran, Iran
Architects: KA Architecture Studio
Once a deteriorating transit station, the site has been transformed into a dynamic pedestrian hub. Built with locally handmade brick, the design bridges contemporary functionality with Iran’s deep architectural traditions.
6. Vision Pakistan
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Architects: DB Studios
A multi-storey educational facility that houses a charity supporting disadvantaged youth through vocational training. The structure is noted for its joyful façades, light-filled interiors, and cost-effective design.
7. Wonder Cabinet
Location: Bethlehem, Palestine
Architects: AAU Anastas
A multi-purpose cultural and production space co-created with local artisans and contractors. It serves as a hub for craft, design, and learning, embodying contemporary expressions of national identity and resilience.
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