Yasmeen Lari: Building Resilience in Pakistan's Rural Communities

At 82 years old, architect Yasmeen Lari is forging the way in fortifying Pakistan’s rural communities living on the frontline of climate change.

A Remarkable Architect at 82

Yasmeen Lari, Pakistan's first woman architect, is making a difference at the age of 82. She has shifted her focus from multi-million dollar projects in Karachi to developing flood-proof bamboo houses in rural areas.

Protecting Communities from Flooding

Lari's innovative bamboo houses have already proven effective in protecting families from devastating monsoon flooding. Pilot settlements have provided shelter to those affected by catastrophic floods.

Scaling Up for Resilience

Lari aims to scale up the project, with a goal of constructing one million affordable houses using local materials. This initiative not only provides homes but also creates new job opportunities in vulnerable areas.

Co-Building and Co-Creation

Lari involves the local community in the construction process, emphasizing their equal participation in making the houses comfortable and suitable for their needs.

A Sustainable Approach

Lari's approach focuses on achieving zero carbon emissions, zero waste, and zero reliance on external aid, ultimately aiming to eradicate poverty through sustainable architecture.

Flood-Resistant Designs

Lari's flood-proof designs, featuring elevated houses with bamboo structures deeply rooted in the ground, can withstand high water pressure without being uprooted. These structures, known as "chanwara," are built with affordable, locally available materials.

Yasmeen Lari's outstanding contributions have been recognized with the 2023 Royal Gold Medal by the Royal Institute of British Architects. Despite the honor, Lari remains focused on delivering lasting change and making a positive impact on marginalized communities.