Habitat 67, a modular housing complex constructed for Expo 67 in Montreal, transformed a McGill University thesis project into a permanent architectural landmark. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the structure introduced a prefabricated, three-dimensional system that challenged conventional high-density urban living by integrating garden terraces and open communal spaces within a rigorous, repeating structural grid.
Formative Years and Education
Born in 1938 in Haifa, Safdie moved to Montreal at age 15 after his family emigrated from Israel. He enrolled at Westmount High School before attending McGill University. During his final year of the architectural program, he developed his foundational thesis, "A Case for City Living." After graduating in 1961, he apprenticed under Louis Kahn in Philadelphia, an experience that preceded his invitation to realize his modular concept for the 1967 World Exposition.
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In 1964, he established Safdie Architects, eventually opening offices in Jerusalem, Toronto, Shanghai, Singapore, and Somerville, Massachusetts. His work often addresses large-scale civic projects, including the National Gallery of Canada and the Musée de la civilisation. In 1972, he served as a department head at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, and by 1978, he held a teaching position at Harvard University.
Technological and Regional Integration
His projects often fuse social goals with site-specific regionalism, exemplified by the restoration of Jerusalem’s Old City and the construction of the Mamilla Mall. Safdie has utilized advanced geometry in both civic and private commissions, ranging from the United States Institute of Peace Headquarters to the expansive Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport. His research programs continue to explore the future of tall buildings and urban mobility.
Professional Recognition and Advisory Roles
His contributions have been recognized with the 2019 Wolf Prize in Architecture and the 2015 AIA Gold Medal. He is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In 2026, he accepted an appointment by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to lead the jury for the redevelopment competition of 24 Sussex Drive, the official residence of the Canadian prime minister.
Fast facts
- Born: 1938, Haifa
- Citizenship: Canada, United States, Israel
- Alma Mater: McGill University
- Notable Work: Habitat 67
- AIA Gold Medal: 2015
- Wolf Prize in Architecture: 2019
- Firm Headquarters: Somerville, Massachusetts
Questions readers ask
What is Safdie's most famous early project?
Habitat 67, a modular housing development in Montreal created for the 1967 World Exposition.
Does Safdie design residential houses?
While he focuses on large-scale urban centers, civic institutions, and airports, his design principles aim to bring amenities typically reserved for single-family homes into high-density environments.
Achievements
- Wolf Prize in Architecture — 2019
- Notable work: Habitat 67
- Notable work: National Gallery of Canada
- Notable work: Musée de la civilisation
- Notable work: Beating the Odds Together: 50 Years of Singapore-Israel Ties
- Affiliated with Harvard University, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Louis Kahn
- Educated at McGill University and Westmount High School
- Worked as architect, urban planner and author
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