City Design Studio

I am deeply honored and profoundly grateful to the The American Institute of Architects (AIA) for electing me to the AIA College of Fellows. To be recognized alongside a remarkable group of peers—six from the AIA Los Angeles Chapter and sixteen from AIA California—is both humbling and affirming. This moment is also a tribute to the mentors, collaborators, and communities who have shaped my thinking, practice, and values over the years. The Investiture Ceremony at Trinity Church in the City of Boston, designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, FAIA, was a profoundly moving experience to reflect on the gravitas and resonance of our profession.  The #AIA‘25 Conference provided an equally rich setting to connect with Fellows from across the nation and the globe. These conversations—on design, resilience, justice, and innovation—left me energized and hopeful. In every exchange, I felt the collective momentum, grounded in shared values and diverse expressions. I was particularly moved by the life and work of Deborah Berke Throughout this journey, I’ve often thought of the individuals whose ideas and mentorship have guided me. Kenneth Frampton’s seminal work on Critical Regionalism has been foundational to how I approach design. Equally important is the enduring influence of Raymond Kappe, FAIA, whose quiet wisdom and unwavering integrity set a powerful example. His gentle encouragement—always reminding me to align my work with my inner convictions—has shaped not only my architectural approach but also my worldview. And always with me is the legacy of Muzharul Islam, my first mentor in Bangladesh. A modernist grounded in regional sensibility, he became an Honorary Fellow of the AIA in 1999. His belief that architecture must speak both to its time and its culture continues to inspire me daily. To receive this honor among such esteemed peers, in a place so rich with architectural meaning, is so memorable. I thank the AIA for this recognition, and I extend my gratitude to my colleagues in Los Angeles, across California, and beyond who have supported and challenged me #AIA25 #Architecture #AIACollegeOfFellows #TrinityChurch City Design Studio

AIA Los Angeles celebrates new Fellow Farooq Ameen, FAIA. Farooq transforms contemporary urban place-form through incremental urban interventions that celebrate culture and advance social equity. He elevates the architect’s role as the orchestrator of inclusive community revitalization on a global scale. AIA’s highest membership honor, Fellowship recognizes exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society. Learn more about Fellowship and how you can apply by contacting Steve Tanner at steve@aialosangeles.org. #UrbanDesign #SocialEquity #ArchitectsOfChange #CityRevitalization #AIALAFellows #CommunityDesign

Please join me on October 10th as I moderate a discussion with Dutch Architect Sjoerd Soeters as he presents the process for the master plan and design of the Sluselholmen District (https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/g9pMSuUA) in Copenhagen. Using Open Building principles he led a team of 30 architectural firms to implement the project on the curved canal. Please register at https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gbbYw6J7. AIA Members will qualify for 2.5 CEU's