For too long, the dominant narratives in architecture have overlooked the voices and contributions of diverse designers. The absence is stark — so much so that a simple online search often fails to reflect the breadth of talent shaping our built environment today. Pascale Sablan’s Greatness: Diverse Designers of Architecture confronts this omission head-on, offering an illustrated exploration of 47 contemporary architects and designers whose work is expanding the scope of architectural excellence.
Sablan, a visionary architect and CEO of Adjaye Associates’ New York studio, has long championed the intersection of design, advocacy and equity. In Greatness, she presents not just a survey of work but a manifesto that insists architecture must serve a broader social responsibility.
Through essays, case studies and designer profiles, the book examines how architecture can address pressing issues such as housing injustice, redlining, environmental sustainability and universal design.
In our conversation, Sablan discusses how Greatness is both a celebration and a call to action — one that demands a more equitable future for the profession and the communities it serves.
Universal design and broadening the definition of good design
DNN: Greatness challenges entrenched definitions of architectural excellence. How does the book broaden these definitions while still maintaining rigorous standards for innovation and artistry?
PS: In Greatness: Diverse Designers of Architecture, I strive to broaden the traditional definitions of architectural excellence by showcasing the diverse, innovative work of historically marginalized designers.
Balancing this with maintaining rigorous standards for innovation and artistry involves recognizing that true innovation often comes from unexpected places and perspectives. Rigor doesn’t have to be compromised; it is enhanced by inclusivity, as diverse inputs foster more creative, comprehensive solutions.
DNN: Your book highlights the contributions of historically marginalized designers. How do you think these designers’ lived experiences inform their approach to design?
PS: The lived experiences of historically marginalized designers bring unique perspectives that inherently inform and enrich their design philosophies. Their approach often integrates a deep understanding of cultural nuances, community needs, and social justice, which can lead to more empathetic and sustainable design solutions that genuinely resonate with a wider range of people.
Addressing global challenges with architecture
DNN: Many see architecture as an exclusive art form, but Greatness positions it as a tool for systemic change. Can you elaborate on how you see architecture shaping policies and addressing global challenges like housing and climate justice?
PS: Architecture transcends its traditional role when it acts as a catalyst for systemic change, particularly in addressing pressing global issues like housing and climate justice. By designing with a consciousness of its social impact, architecture can influence public policies, promote sustainable practices, and create spaces that foster community resilience against environmental and socio-economic challenges.
Challenging the “starchitect” model
DNN: You talk about community being the driving force in architecture. How do you reconcile this with the traditional “starchitect” model of individual genius that still dominates the field?
PS: While the “starchitect” model has traditionally celebrated the vision and genius of individual architects, it often overlooks the collaborative nature of architecture, where many hands and minds contribute to the success of a project. In my view, the future of architecture must embrace and recognize these contributions at all levels.
It’s not only about who signs and stamps the documents; every team member who contributes a significant portion to a project deserves recognition and praise. This inclusive recognition fosters a more supportive and diverse architectural community.
This principle is also the foundation of the SAY IT LOUD exhibitions, which have been instrumental in bringing to light the often-unseen contributions of diverse professionals in our field. Greatness continues this mission by celebrating the collective achievements that shape our built environment, ensuring that every voice involved is acknowledged and valued.
The intersection of sustainability and social justice
DNN: Let’s discuss the intersection of sustainability and social justice is pivotal in your work. How do you see these imperatives converging in future architectural practice for underrepresented communities?
PS: Sustainability and social justice are not just parallel imperatives; they are increasingly intersecting in the practice of architecture. Each chapter in Greatness begins with an essay that explores the history of a specific architectural typology and examines how these structures have historically perpetuated harm.
It is the responsibility of architects today to engage in practices that not only prevent further harm but actively contribute to healing. The 10 projects curated in each chapter of the book demonstrate this healing power of architecture, showcasing how innovative, sustainable, and equitable design principles are applied to enhance the lives of underrepresented communities. By addressing topics such as sustainability and social justice, these projects illustrate how architecture can be a transformative tool that serves all sectors of society.
DNN: You call Greatness a manifesto. What steps do you hope architecture schools, firms, and policymakers will take to turn this vision into reality?
PS: As a manifesto, Greatness calls for transformative action across the architectural sector at a critical time when societal leaders are increasingly pushing back against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, claiming that those from diverse backgrounds are less capable. This book challenges such misconceptions and seeks to inspire architecture schools, firms, and policymakers to adopt a more inclusive approach.
Through our efforts and books like Greatness, the strategy is to integrate broader historical perspectives and diverse cultural insights into school curricula, foster equitable hiring and promotional practices, and advocate for policies that enhance access and participation in the built environment. The vision is not just to counteract the current narrative but to build a foundation for enduring change that acknowledges and celebrates the value of diversity in architecture.
Eurocentrism in architectural education
DNN: Architectural education has long been criticized for its exclusivity and Eurocentrism. If you could overhaul it, what are the main elements you would prioritize to create an inclusive curriculum?
PS: Revamping architectural education requires more than just expanding curricula; it necessitates a paradigm shift in how we teach and engage with architecture. If I could overhaul the education system, I would prioritize experiential learning that connects students directly with diverse communities. This means establishing more fieldwork and real-world project opportunities that allow students to address actual community needs and challenges.
Additionally, I would incorporate technology and interdisciplinary approaches more deeply into the curriculum to reflect the contemporary practice landscape, ensuring that students are well-versed in innovative design technologies and methods that emphasize sustainability and social responsiveness.
Finally, I would ensure that our teaching staff reflects the diversity we aspire to instill in our students, providing role models from various backgrounds and perspectives. By embedding these elements into architectural education, we can cultivate a generation of architects equipped to create inclusive and adaptive spaces that cater to all segments of society.
DNN: Architects often work within systems that resist change. What advice do you have for designers who want to disrupt these systems without compromising their values or careers?
PS: Designers looking to challenge existing systems should align themselves with like-minded peers and mentors to build a supportive network. Stay committed to your values and seek out projects that allow you to apply your principles. Sometimes, small, strategic projects can demonstrate the value of innovative approaches, gradually influencing larger systemic changes.
DNN: What emerging movements or designers today make you hopeful for the inclusive future you envision?
PS: I am particularly inspired by movements that prioritize environmental justice and community engagement in design processes. Designers who advocate for participatory design and who integrate local materials and techniques in their projects give me hope for a more inclusive future in architecture.
What is great architecture?
DNN: Finally, after writing the book, has your definition of architectural “greatness” changed? How do you see yourself embodying your working definition in the future?
PS: Writing Greatness: Diverse Designers of Architecture has profoundly deepened my understanding of what “greatness” in architecture truly means. This journey has not only been about highlighting the vital contributions of underrepresented architects and designers but has also been a transformative personal enlightenment.
I’ve come to see “greatness” not merely as a measure of aesthetic achievement or professional accolade but as a living, breathing ethos of inclusivity, responsibility, and community impact. This book has taught me that architectural greatness should fundamentally contribute to societal well-being and champion the voices of those often sidelined.
As I move forward, I see myself continuing to embody this expanded definition of greatness. My role as an architect, author, and advocate will focus more intensely on projects and policies that prioritize environmental sustainability, social equity, and community enrichment.
As the CEO of Adjaye Associates, New York Studio, I am committed to mentoring the next generation of architects, ensuring that they inherit a profession that values not only creativity and innovation but also compassion and inclusivity. The legacy I aim to build will serve as a beacon that guides future architects and designers to merge their unique designs with the imperative of making the world a better, more just place.
