Photo: Messenger
A book exploring a broad spectrum of interdisciplinary themes on architecture focusing how the built environment should be in the next 50 years, particularly in a Bangladeshi context, was launched at BRAC University recently.
The themes include heritage conservation, urban and rural development, placemaking, informality, inclusivity, landscape infrastructure, disaster resilience, emerging technology, and the well-being of future generations.
Titled “Next 50: Collective Futures” and published by University Press Limited, the book comprises 49 chapters contributed by 81 authors from around the world.
The book publication project was undertaken by Open Studio, a platform for collaboration between design and allied disciplines and for critical rethinking and action, and contextbd.com, an online platform hosting information on architecture education and practice.
Shah Cement supported the initiative.
Introducing the book, Professor Fuad Hassan Mallick, Editor-in-Chief and Dean of the School of Architecture and Design at BRAC University, highlighted its global relevance.
In a detailed review, Dr. Mohammed Zakiul Islam, a professor of the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, underscored the book’s significance to Bangladesh’s evolving urban landscape.
The book’s executive editors, Dr Tanzil Shafique and Dr Saimum Kabir, informed of the collaborative effort behind the publication.
Addressing the launching, Professor Syed Ferhat Anwar, Vice-Chancellor of BRAC University, said he expected the book to inspire policymakers, development practitioners, and individuals interested in shaping Bangladesh’s future.
Naushad Chowdhury, Director of Brand Marketing at Abul Khair Group, spoke on behalf of Shah Cement, sharing perspectives on the private sector’s role and expressing interest in future collaborations to support research and innovation.
The book launching event also served as a networking platform among architects, planners and policymakers, urbanists, academics and early-career researchers, publishers and industry leaders.
Messenger/Tushar
