The official book launch of Shamsul Wares: An Architecture of Elemental Modernism took place on the evening of 4 July at the Multipurpose Hall of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh (IAB) Centre in Agargaon, Dhaka. The event brought together distinguished architects, academics, and art enthusiasts from across the country to celebrate the life and legacy of one of Bangladesh's most influential architects and educators, whose enduring contributions have significantly shaped the nation's architectural education and professional practice.

Architect Shamsul Wares (Source: Asif Salman)

Professor Shamsul Wares is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in contemporary Bangladeshi architecture and architectural pedagogy. After graduating from the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 1968, he began his professional career under the guidance of Muzharul Islam, the pioneer of modern architecture in Bangladesh. Subsequently, he gained valuable experience at the Dhaka office of the internationally renowned architect Louis I. Kahn. Throughout his career, Professor Wares has regarded teaching not merely as a profession but as a social responsibility and a lifelong commitment. 

He served as a faculty member in the Department of Architecture at BUET for more than three decades, from 1972 to 2003, mentoring generations of architects. Following his retirement from BUET, he joined the University of Asia Pacific, where he served as Professor in the Department of Architecture and Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Science and Design from 2003 to 2015. He later served as an Advisor to the Department of Architecture at the State University of Bangladesh and is currently associated with the Department of Architecture at Bangladesh University.

Professor Wares has maintained an extensive architectural practice through his firm, Shisrikkhu Sthapati. His portfolio encompasses a diverse range of residential buildings, industrial facilities, cinema halls, commercial complexes, and public parks. Among his most celebrated works is the Vacation House in Bhurulia, Gazipur, widely admired for its sensitive integration with the surrounding landscape. His architectural language is characterized by restrained geometric forms, carefully framed spatial compositions, and the thoughtful incorporation of natural light and ventilation, reflecting a refined synthesis of modernist principles and climatic responsiveness. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to architectural education and the profession, the Institute of Architects Bangladesh honored him with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” in 2009 and the prestigious “IAB Gold Medal” in 2017.

Edited by architect and historian Professor Dr. Adnan Zillur Morshed and published by the internationally renowned ORO Editions, this book presents a comprehensive documentation of Professor Wares' architectural legacy. The monograph features an extensive collection of his design projects, drawings, and scholarly reflections, encompassing residential and commercial buildings, cinema halls, and urban parks. Beyond documenting his architectural works, the publication highlights his profound influence as an educator who inspired generations of students to understand architecture not merely as a profession but as a philosophy of life.

Monograph on Professor Shamsul Wares: An Architecture of Elemental Modernism, Published by ORO Editions (Source: Asif Salman)

The program commenced with a welcome address by Professor Dr. Abu Sayeed M. Ahmed, President of the Institute of Architects Bangladesh. This was followed by an introductory presentation titled “Why This Book” by the editor, Professor Dr. Adnan Zillur Morshed, who reflected on the editorial journey and the significance of documenting Professor Wares' contributions. A panel discussion titled “Shamsul Wares and the Evolution of Architectural Thoughts in Bangladesh” followed, featuring prominent architects Jalal Ahmed, Mahbuba Haque, Mustapha Khalid Palash, Iqbal Habib, Md. Faysal Kabir Himun, and Rehnuma Tasnim Shifa, who shared their perspectives on Professor Wares' lasting influence on architectural discourse and practice in Bangladesh. 

Editor of the Monograph Architect Professor Dr. Adnan Zillur Morshed (Source: Social Media)

Panel Discussion titled “Shamsul Wares and the Evolution of Architectural Thoughts in Bangladesh” (Source: Social Media)

Artist Monirul Islam and Professor Shamsul Wares jointly unveiled the book (Source: Social Media)

Following an engaging Q&A session, internationally acclaimed artist Monirul Islam and Professor Shamsul Wares jointly unveiled the book. In his concluding remarks, Professor Wares shared personal reflections on his lifelong journey in architecture and education and expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the audience. The event concluded with a group photograph session and a book-signing ceremony, during which attendees received autographed copies of the publication.