Hamdy El-Setouhy: The Maestro Architect Who Blends Heritage with Innovation
Hamdy El-Setouhy is more than just an architect; he is a cultural force, seamlessly weaving threads of history and innovation to create spaces that resonate with both past and future. From designing award-winning museums to advocating for architectural heritage preservation, El-Setouhy’s impact on the architectural landscape is profound.
His journey is marked by a series of remarkable achievements. He holds the esteemed title of Consulting Architect, specializing in public buildings—particularly museums—and is also recognized as an expert in architectural heritage and the development of heritage areas. His influence extends into academia, where he shares his expertise as a lecturer at the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AAST) and Cairo University.
His commitment to preserving cultural identity is evident through his role as founder of the Architectural Heritage – Cultural Identity | Egypt (AH-CI | Egypt) program and his active membership in the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). El-Setouhy’s passion for heritage transcends national borders, as reflected in his role as a delegate to the International Habitat Biennale for the Arab World.
El-Setouhy’s design philosophy goes beyond construction—he views architecture as a "philosophy of expression." This belief has fueled his participation in numerous architectural competitions, where he has consistently garnered recognition. Among the prestigious honors he has received are the ICOMOS Natural/Cultural Heritage Award, the State Award for Excellence in the Arts from Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, and the Baku International Architecture Award.
A central facet of El-Setouhy’s work is his dedication to cultural and museum projects. He has designed several distinguished museums, including the Tell Basta Museum and the Cairo Opera House Museum, showcasing his ability to craft spaces that both educate and inspire. His focus on traditional techniques and local materials—coupled with his embrace of technological advancements—further defines his unique approach.
Beyond design, El-Setouhy is a driving force in cultural initiatives. He founded the Abu Simbel 50 campaign to celebrate the golden jubilee of the rescue of the Abu Simbel temples, organizing numerous events to commemorate this landmark in human cooperation. He also organizes and participates in cultural events that honor influential figures and celebrate Egypt’s rich heritage.
Hamdy El-Setouhy’s multifaceted career reflects a deep commitment to architecture, culture, and education. He is a true visionary—shaping the world around him with a unique blend of artistic talent, historical awareness, and forward-thinking perspective.
