The achievements of female architects have long been overshadowed by those of their male counterparts. While Oscar Niemeyer's modernist genius is widely recognized, his work as a woman was often overlooked. Similarly, Italian émigré Lina Bo Bardi's Teatro Oficina in São Paulo was named the best theatre in the world, yet her female perspective and Italian style were undervalued.
A la Ronde, an eccentric 16-sided home in Exmouth, Devon, designed by Jane and Mary Parminter, is a testament to the ingenuity of women architects. Their work was inspired by the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy, showcasing a unique blend of Byzantine inflection and cottage ornamentation.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has recently released a report highlighting the struggles faced by female architects. The findings reveal stark displays of sexism, unequal pay, unsociable hours, and pervasive power imbalances. This is not an isolated issue; five decades ago, a similar review highlighted the exodus of women from architecture.
Despite this, more women are studying architecture at university, yet only 31% of registered architects and under a quarter of RIBA chartered members are female. The retention issue now overshadows recruitment, indicating that existing female architects face significant challenges in their careers.
Women like Kazuyo Sejima, Mariam Issoufou, Liz Diller, and Eileen Gray have made significant contributions to architecture. Their work reflects the lived experience of women, with styles that cater to a broader range of needs. For instance, Elizabeth Diller's High Line in New York City showcases a porous and community-focused design.
However, the industry still perpetuates masculine stereotypes. Buildings were designed with men in mind, adhering to qualities deemed "male." The notion that architecture is inherently tied to masculinity is reductive and ignores the diversity of human experience.
Historically, women have been overlooked or undervalued in their contributions to architecture. Eileen Gray's iconic E-1027 house was vandalized by Le Corbusier himself, while Denise Scott Brown was denied a Pritzker prize despite her significant contributions to architecture.
The preponderance of female architects needs to improve not just for recognition but also to facilitate the real-life actualities of half of the human population. By fostering teamwork, better dialogue with clients, and considerations of inclusivity, the industry can build on the progress made by trailblazers like Norma Merrick Sklarek.
In conclusion, while there have been notable contributions from female architects throughout history, their work has often been overshadowed or overlooked. It is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women in architecture, ensuring that their designs reflect the needs and experiences of half of the human population.
A la Ronde, an eccentric 16-sided home in Exmouth, Devon, designed by Jane and Mary Parminter, is a testament to the ingenuity of women architects. Their work was inspired by the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy, showcasing a unique blend of Byzantine inflection and cottage ornamentation.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has recently released a report highlighting the struggles faced by female architects. The findings reveal stark displays of sexism, unequal pay, unsociable hours, and pervasive power imbalances. This is not an isolated issue; five decades ago, a similar review highlighted the exodus of women from architecture.
Despite this, more women are studying architecture at university, yet only 31% of registered architects and under a quarter of RIBA chartered members are female. The retention issue now overshadows recruitment, indicating that existing female architects face significant challenges in their careers.
Women like Kazuyo Sejima, Mariam Issoufou, Liz Diller, and Eileen Gray have made significant contributions to architecture. Their work reflects the lived experience of women, with styles that cater to a broader range of needs. For instance, Elizabeth Diller's High Line in New York City showcases a porous and community-focused design.
However, the industry still perpetuates masculine stereotypes. Buildings were designed with men in mind, adhering to qualities deemed "male." The notion that architecture is inherently tied to masculinity is reductive and ignores the diversity of human experience.
Historically, women have been overlooked or undervalued in their contributions to architecture. Eileen Gray's iconic E-1027 house was vandalized by Le Corbusier himself, while Denise Scott Brown was denied a Pritzker prize despite her significant contributions to architecture.
The preponderance of female architects needs to improve not just for recognition but also to facilitate the real-life actualities of half of the human population. By fostering teamwork, better dialogue with clients, and considerations of inclusivity, the industry can build on the progress made by trailblazers like Norma Merrick Sklarek.
In conclusion, while there have been notable contributions from female architects throughout history, their work has often been overshadowed or overlooked. It is essential to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of women in architecture, ensuring that their designs reflect the needs and experiences of half of the human population.