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Portrait of Senan Abdelqader

Senan Abdelqader

Innovative Architect and Urban Planner

Born
1962
Born in
Tayibe, Palestine
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Why Senan is here

Pioneering modern architectural practices in Palestine, merging contemporary design with historical context.

Their story

Senan Abdelqader is a renowned Palestinian architect acclaimed for his innovative approach to architecture and urban planning. His work is characterized by a deep respect for historical context while simultaneously embracing modernity and sustainability. Abdelqader’s projects often reflect a sophisticated blend of cultural heritage with contemporary design principles, making significant contributions to the architectural landscape in Palestine and beyond.

Milestones

The moments that shaped Senan’s path.

  1. Educational Journey

    After graduating from high school, Senan Abdelqader pursued Civil Engineering at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences in Germany, before transitioning to study architecture at the University of Kaiserslautern.

  2. Establishment of Senan Architects (SA)

    Founded Senan Abdelqader Architects in Jerusalem in 1995 and later expanded to Jaffa in 2015, establishing a reputable architectural firm recognized for its innovative design and urban planning projects.

  3. Founding of the in+Formal Research Unit

    In 2006, he founded the in+Formal Research Unit at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, offering architecture students the opportunity to critically engage with the concepts of formality and informality in architecture.

  4. International Recognition

    Participated in the São Paulo Biennale in Brazil in 2007, where he also published his book "Architecture of (in)Dependence," marking a significant milestone in his international engagement and contribution to architectural discourse.

  5. 2026–2027

    Research Fellow at MIT’s Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture, researching negotiated spatial rights.

Legacy

What they built, changed and left behind.

  1. Innovative Approach to Rural and Urban Life

    Through his publication "Architecture of (in)Dependence," Abdelqader introduced innovative concepts for transforming rural Palestinian life into contemporary urban contexts, reflecting a deep engagement with the socio-cultural dimensions of architecture.

  2. Leadership in Architectural Education

    His role as an educator, in the Dessau Institution of Architecture (DIA) in Germany, has contributed significantly to shaping the next generation of architects, with a special focus on informal urbanism.

  3. Public Platform for Planning as a Collective Act

    Through his architectural practice, Abdelqader has created a public platform that views the planning process as a collective act and a space for civil practices, emphasizing community engagement in architecture.

  4. Institute for the Study of Arab Culture in Arts, Design, and Architecture

    In 2018, the establishment of the Institute underscored his commitment to integrating architectural practice with the study and promotion of Arab culture, enhancing the cultural depth in architectural and urban design.

  5. Engagement in Global Architectural Dialogues

    His participation in various global architectural biennales and exhibitions, such as the São Paulo Biennale, positions Abdelqader as a key figure in international architectural dialogues, promoting Palestinian architecture on the global stage.

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