Asymptote Architecture, founded in 1989, emerged as a practice centered on the integration of computer technology with architectural design. Hani Rashid, who established the firm alongside Lise Anne Couture, has maintained a career that balances large-scale international building projects with extensive pedagogical commitments across several major global academic institutions.
Early Education
Born in Cairo in 1958, Rashid eventually relocated to Ontario, Canada. His foundational architectural training took place at the University of Ottawa and Carleton University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1983.
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The firm has completed a diverse portfolio of work, ranging from luxury residential towers to specialized commercial infrastructure. Key projects include the 166 Perry Street residential building in Manhattan's West Village and the HydraPier Pavilion in the Netherlands. In Abu Dhabi, the practice designed the Yas Hotel, a central component of the Yas Marina development and its accompanying Formula 1 circuit, as well as the Strata Tower. Their commercial design history encompasses the New York Stock Exchange Advanced Trading Floor and flagship stores for Carlos Miele and Alessi.
Academic Appointments
Rashid has held numerous teaching positions throughout his career. At Columbia University, he launched the Advanced Digital Design program in 1992 and the Digital Design Initiative in 1995. His academic tenure includes professorships at the University of Michigan, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich), and the University of Applied Arts Vienna, where he began a professorship in 2011. He has also held visiting roles at institutions including the Harvard University Graduate School of Design and Princeton University.
Professional Recognition
In 2000, Rashid represented his interests at the Seventh International Architecture Biennale in Venice. He later served as a design architect for the Ninth Venice Architecture Biennale in 2004. That same year, he and Lise Anne Couture were jointly awarded the Frederick Kiesler Prize for Architecture and the Arts.
Fast facts
- Born: 1958, Cairo
- Citizenship: Canada
- Partner: Lise Anne Couture
- Firm: Asymptote Architecture
- Notable Award: Frederick Kiesler Prize
- Primary Fields: Architecture, digital technology
- Alma Mater: Carleton University, Cranbrook Academy of Art
Questions readers ask
Where did Hani Rashid complete his master's degree?
He received a master of architecture degree from the Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1985.
What is the primary focus of Asymptote Architecture?
The firm is recognized for integrating computer technology into architectural design to create a hybrid style.
Achievements
- Frederick Kiesler Prize
- Trained at University of Ottawa
