Theory? | Seminar on Theories of Architecture and Urbanism | August 2025

Sun 17 Aug - Thu 28 Aug' 25

A two-week-long seminar exploring the integral relationship among design, history, and theory in architecture and urbanism. Through close readings, case studies, and participatory discussions, participants will map the conceptual terrain of architecture — what Professor Kazi Khaleed Ashraf, esteemed scholar, architect and thinker describes as the “topographies of contemporary architecture” — examining key movements, motivations, and dilemmas that continue to define and redefine the architectural field today.

Faculty

Professor Kazi Khaleed Ashraf

Goals and Objectives

Titled “Theory?”, the seminar probes the integral relationship among design, history, and theory, and how each forms and informs the other. Spanning two weeks of exploration, Prof. Ashraf will guide participants through the conceptual terrain of architecture — what he describes as the “topographies of contemporary architecture.” Through close readings, case studies, and participatory discussions, the seminar will map key movements, motivations, and dilemmas that continue to define and redefine the architectural field today. The seminar is a unique opportunity for young academics or professional architects wishing to reframe and reimagine their approach to design and thinking.

Important Information

1. Date: August 17 – August 28, 2025
Seminar meetings: 6:00-8:30 PM
Total duration: 2 weeks

2. Venue: Bengal Institute for Architecture, Landscapes and Settlements, House No. 14, Road No. 71, Gulshan 2 (North), Dhaka

3. Seminar Fee:
Regular participants: 6,000 BDT
Students: 4,000 BDT (Valid student ID required)

4. Important Dates:
Application starts: July 1, 2025
Application Deadline: July 22, 2025
Selection email through email: By July 24, 2025
Payment Deadline: August 7, 2025

5. Application Requirements:
– Open to architects, academics, and professionals in related fields
– Young faculty teaching in universities and professionals navigating through their practice are particularly encouraged to apply
– Participants should have basic familiarity with architectural discourse and be comfortable engaging in theoretical discussions
– Limited seats available to ensure the quality of discussion and interaction

Payment Information

Selected participants must complete their payment by August 7, 2025.

Payment Link: bengal.portwallet.com/subscription/

How to Apply

To apply for the seminar, please fill out the application form: https://forms.gle/8XFKokcQj3nmyYpM9

For any queries, please contact: [email protected]

_________

Image Release Waiver

By participating in this seminar, participants consent to allow the Bengal Institute to use photographs and videos taken during the event for publicity purposes, including print materials, the Bengal Institute’s website, and its social media platforms. Photographs and videos remain the property of the Bengal Institute for Architecture, Landscapes and Settlements.

Release of Liability

By participating in the “Theory?” Seminar on Theories of Architecture and Urbanism hosted by the Bengal Institute for Architecture, Landscapes and Settlements, participants release the Institute, its elected officials, officers, directors, employees, agents, volunteers, affiliates and all others acting on its behalf from any claims, actions, causes of action, and complaints of any kind which they have or may in the future have, whether known or unknown, arising out of or relating to their participation in the “Theory?” Seminar on Theories of Architecture and Urbanism on August 17 – August 28, 2025.

Additional Information

Terms and Conditions: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WpCl9gGotbHMLOb7gdVPjvAnz2oGVfplPIbVlLSGW_Y/edit?usp=sharing

IP Policy: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12wZhRByvRpQKNgZ2ShqzR1c8leKJeiTmOqoohSDw-0M/edit?usp=sharing