WiE Connect Podcast Series - Interview with Tarek Ibrahim

Welcome to WiE Connect, a podcast series brought to you by WiE Design!

In this series, we dive deep into the world of design and we connect you with industry experts, innovative designers, and thought leaders to discuss design philosophies, challenges, the latest trends, and creative solutions in architecture and interior design.

Whether you're looking for fresh inspiration, insights into the design field, career tips, or cutting-edge design technology, WiE Connect has it all. 

In this episode of WiE Connect Podcast, we sit down with Lebanese architect Tarek Ibrahim — founder of Paseo Architecture and a rising voice in contemporary design. Dubbed the “Vogue Architect” by Abode2, Tarek has played a pivotal role in shaping cultural ambition and community well-being, earning numerous accolades such as the Excellence in Architecture Award (2018), the German Design Award (2020), and multiple A'Design Awards. His work is deeply rooted in decolonizing architecture and reinterpreting identity through space and design, making his architectural practice an ongoing dialogue rather than a static product.

From questioning the true meaning of sustainability to mourning the loss of public spaces, Tarek critiques the status quo while advocating for architecture rooted in identity, emotion, and cultural memory. We delve into themes like decolonization, impermanence, and the soul of Islamic architecture — all through Tarek’s poetic, philosophical lens.

If you’re passionate about architecture as more than just buildings — as a dialogue between people, place, and purpose — this episode is for you.

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Architect Tarek Ibrahim Founder of Paseo Architecture

Space, Identity, and the Architecture of Thought

For Tarek, architecture is not merely about constructing physical structures; it is a journey—a promenade through which stories unfold. He believes that the essence of architecture lies in its ability to reflect human experiences, behaviors, and narratives.

Identity, in his view, is fluid and complex, shaped by a community’s shared conditions rather than rigid historical references. He challenges conventional definitions questioning whether its essence stems from culture, location, or technique.

One of the most compelling aspects of Ibrahim’s philosophy is his belief in the absence of strict architectural rules. He argues that constraints fuel creativity rather than hinder it, emphasizing that experimentation is at the heart of design. His admiration for Peter Zumthor is rooted in this sensibility—an architecture that is felt rather than just seen. This notion aligns with his perspective on permanence and impermanence; architecture, he suggests, is a living entity whose survival is dictated by the community. What remains is not necessarily the most physically enduring structure, but the one with a compelling story.

Architecture exists where there is a poetic story to tell. ~ Tarek Ibrahim

Questioning Sustainability and the Loss of Public Space

Sustainability, a frequently debated topic in architecture, is viewed by Tarek through a critical lens. He sees sustainability as a form of power—both constructive and destructive—questioning whether it serves the environment or market interests. He identifies three layers of sustainability: its aesthetic appearance (greenwashing), its marketable image, and its true essence, which should be necessity-driven rather than trend-based.

Beyond environmental concerns, Tarek also raises alarms about the disappearance of physical public spaces. He warns that the shift towards virtual spaces is eroding communal interaction. Architects, he insists, must resist the complete privatization of public realms and advocate for shared spaces that foster collective experiences. He extends this skepticism to the concept of universal design, acknowledging that while it is an ideal, it remains a privilege accessible only to those with power and resources.

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Architecture as a Philosophy of Living

For Tarek, the core of architecture lies in storytelling. It is the tension between resistance and release, the honesty of material and form, and the desire to create. He describes the essence of architecture as a reflection of human conflict and aspiration, with beauty emerging from rawness and truth. The spirit of place, or genius loci, is not shaped by time but by the human and communal narratives embedded within it.

His approach challenges traditional thinking and invites architects to look beyond mere form-making. He questions whether architecture is truly evolving or merely repackaging old ideas under new terminologies. His insights push the boundaries of architectural discourse, advocating for a practice rooted in humanity and cultural consciousness rather than mere aesthetics or market-driven solutions.

As he eloquently puts it, "Architecture is more than what we have been told—it is the philosophy of living, translated into reality."

This episode is a valuable listen for anyone interested in the role of architecture in society and the impact of thoughtful design on everyday life. Tune in to watch the engaging conversation.

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