Redefining the Proactive Role of Egyptian Architects

During the last decade, major changes took place in understanding the role of the architect, especially in Egypt. A gap appeared creating a dilemma between conflicts facing the country and the built environment architects produce. The paper adopts a qualitative methodology which addresses two main axes. First is the literature review of proactive visions adopted by a selection of international architects. Following that the paper will present an analysis for the contemporary work of Egyptian architects in order to analyze their reactions to different dynamics. Finally, the paper presents a framework for rethinking the role of the architect in Egypt, whether on the institutional, educational or professional levels.