Modern Architecture in Bangladesh: Tanya Karim & N.R. Khan

Founded in 1991, Tanya Karim & N.R. Khan and Associates has emerged as one of the most innovative and influential architectural firms in South Asia. Renowned for its ability to harmonize modern architecture and modernist techniques with cultural and historical references, the studio has redefined the built environment in Bangladesh and beyond.

From iconic master plans to award-winning civic and residential projects, the firm has continuously delivered architectural works that shape public spaces, national identities, and contemporary urban life.

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The firm’s approach is neither purely modernist nor strictly traditional. Rather, it occupies a unique space where contextual relevance, material intelligence, and spatial elegance intersect. Through a rich portfolio of civic, corporate, institutional, and residential projects, the firm has become synonymous with architectural sophistication, sustainable urban vision, and design integrity.

Modern Architecture in Bangladesh: Tanya Karim & N.R. Khan — Source: Website

Established to push the boundaries of design in Bangladesh, the firm quickly positioned itself at the forefront of contemporary architectural thinking. Unlike practices that adopt global design trends without adaptation, the studio prioritizes a methodology that engages deeply with the cultural and historical context of each project. This commitment to place-based innovation has shaped a body of work that is intellectually rigorous, technically advanced, and spatially refined.

A hallmark of the practice lies in its commitment to continuous learning. Extensive international exposure has informed the firm’s design philosophy, resulting in a body of work that reflects a synthesis of global best practices and regional authenticity.

Recognition Through Innovation and Impact

Since its inception, the firm has received significant national and international recognition. Its accolades include:

Institute of Architects Award for excellence in residential design (2000)
Commendation from the Institute of Architects (2005)
Prime Minister’s Award for City Beautification (2006)
1st prize in the national design competition for the Bangla Academy
2nd prize for the design of the Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Mausoleum
3rd prize for a museum complex at Kalurghat, Chittagong

These awards reflect not only technical competence but also a consistent ability to capture cultural narratives through built form. Each recognition adds to the firm’s legacy as a leader in architectural innovation across South Asia.

With a portfolio that spans institutional, diplomatic, residential, and corporate domains, the practice has undertaken numerous significant commissions across Asia. The studio was responsible for the design of the Royal Thai Embassy in Dhaka, in collaboration with a Thai consultancy, as well as multiple high-impact projects in Bhutan, including the head office of Bhutan Telecom and the RENEW Rehabilitation Centre at Selekha.

As project management consultants for the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and designers of the UNDP offices at IDB Bhaban, the practice has also contributed to projects commissioned by international organizations. These collaborations affirm the studio’s capacity to deliver complex architectural solutions across varied geopolitical contexts.

Thought Leadership and Global Academic Recognition

Beyond the built environment, the firm plays an active role in shaping architectural discourse both regionally and internationally. The work of the practice has been featured in prominent publications such as Architecture Plus (UAE), Architecture Asia (Malaysia), SHOWCASE, and DOT.

The principal architects have also been invited to speak and present their work at prestigious academic institutions, including:

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Yale University
Columbia University
IUAV (Venice)
National University of Singapore (NUS)
CEPT (Ahmedabad)
University of Tokyo

These platforms reflect the firm’s influence not only as a design practice but as a thought leader in architecture, design pedagogy, and urban development.

With over three decades of practice, Tanya Karim & N.R. Khan and Associates continues to set new benchmarks in design excellence. Through its commitment to contextually relevant architecture, technological innovation, and cultural dialogue, the firm contributes to a more thoughtful and enduring architectural legacy for Bangladesh and the South Asian region.

As cities throughout Asia and the Middle East seek sustainable, intelligent, and culturally responsive design, the work of this practice serves as a compelling model of what architecture can achieve when rooted in purpose, place, and precision.

With a legacy rooted in cultural relevance and architectural innovation, Tanya Karim & N.R. Khan and Associates continues to shape the future of design in South Asia. The firm’s enduring commitment to excellence ensures its place among the leading voices in contemporary global architecture.