EMBRACING IMPERFECTION – Habibeh Madjdabadi’s Personal Story in Iranian Architecture

On June 11, 2025, the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Ljubljana will host a lecture by renowned Iranian architect Habibeh Madjdabadi, presented as part of the SHARE Junior Session.

 The SHARE Junior Session is a collateral event of the SHARE Slovenia Forum, specifically designed to engage and inspire the next generation of architects and design students. It offers a platform for emerging voices to connect with leading practitioners shaping the future of the built environment.

Habibeh Madjdabadi is a prominent Iranian architect recognized for her innovative ideas that prioritize culture, geographical context, and material expression. Her work transcends architectural boundaries, blending artisanal craftsmanship with contemporary design. Central to her philosophy is the concept of “approximation,” which embraces controlled imperfections to enrich architectural complexity. Approximation celebrates the beauty of handmade processes, valuing the human touch and intentional irregularities as vital elements in creating unique architectural identities.

Approximation House, Tehran – a deeply personal expression of imperfection, vertical spatial experience, and hand-crafted architectural skin.

Equally significant is her concept of “Khassiat,” a term she coined to describe an abstract quality that answers the fundamental “why” behind a design. Khassiat embodies the essence that elevates a project from mere functionality to something impactful and extraordinary. As she explains, “Khassiat is the active ingredient that transforms a design into something meaningful and resonant with its context and purpose.” Madjdabadi has explored this concept extensively in her writings and presented it at international forums, including the Designyatra conference in India in 2024.

Meydan Commercial Building, Tehran – a contemporary reinterpretation of lost heritage through form, memory, and material.

Her contributions have earned global recognition, including shortlisting for the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2016. She was also featured in “100 Women Architects in Practice,” a RIBA publication showcasing influential women architects worldwide. The selection was conducted by Dezeen Magazine and Pratt Institute School of Architecture.

Mutant Hut, Voronet Park – an angular yet flowing structure rooted in tradition and sensitive to land.

This lecture invites students, professionals, and the wider public to explore how imperfection, authenticity, and cultural context can be powerful sources of strength in architectural design.

Participation is free and open to all – don’t miss the chance to hear directly from Habibeh Madjdabadi as she shares her personal journey, creative philosophy, and insights into shaping architecture that is both deeply rooted and boldly innovative.