Hana Kassem
Associate Professor Adjunct
Hana Kassem, is a Principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, with nearly three decades of experience, leading the design of projects globally and in the United States. She examines how we affect our environment and how in turn our built environment impacts us. Her architectural approach centers on human-centric, and sustainable design, aiming to elevate well-being and meet societal needs, fostering enriching and equitable spaces.
Her portfolio spans academic, research, cultural, hospitality, residential, and mixed-use projects in Brazil, the USA, France, the Philippines, and China. Kassem's work has earned awards and recognition in projects like the Red Hook Houses Resiliency and Recovery for NYCHA and the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center in NYC.
Kassem serves as VP for Design Excellence on the AIANY Board of Trustees and is founding chair of the AIANY annual Leaning Out | Women in Architecture panel. She also serves on the Van Alen Institute Executive Board of Trustees, where she spearheaded the initiation of the Neighborhoods Now project, mobilizing architects during the COVID-19 pandemic to aid communities. Kassem was tapped to join the Mayor's Advisory Council for NYC's post-COVID-19 reopening.
Kassem has taught at Yale School of Architecture and Parsons School of Constructed Environments, emphasizing experiential engagement with the environment, particularly in marginalized communities. She co-edited the book "Architect d.b.a | On Re-defining the Roles of the Architect Today," reflecting her passion for reshaping the architectural landscape.
Kassem's CV is available here.