Algorithmic Architecture
Hassan Ragab
Hassan Ragab by Ahmed Radi
Hassan Ragab, an accomplished Egyptian architect, specializes in blending architecture, art and technology, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence. His life is rich with diverse experiences across cultures and environments, which have profoundly influenced his personal and professional vision. DIVAZ sat down with Ragab to hear all about his interesting take on the role of AI in modern architecture and design.
How do you view your upbringing in Egypt and its impact on you?
I was very fortunate to grow up in a middle-class environment during a time when the gap between social classes wasn’t as wide. This allowed me to interact with people from various social backgrounds—whether poor or wealthy—which shaped my perspective on the world. This was during the 1990s when I was a child playing football. While I might not have understood much back then, this diversity instilled in me an awareness of different people and how they engage with the world, helping me find my own place among them.
How did your journey in design begin?
It wasn’t easy because I left engineering school to join the Faculty of Fine Arts. I felt restless in engineering and was looking for something more dynamic. At first, my family didn’t easily accept this decision, but over time, I received support that I consider fundamental to where I am today. My father, in particular, encouraged me with positive words after seeing my work.
What inspired you to pursue architecture and design?
I graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts in 2010, and I’ve been fascinated with computational design since my college days. Although I didn’t fully master it at the time due to limited access to the technology, I’ve always loved architectural history and heritage. That passion was the main driver for me entering this field.
Tell us about your experience working on designing museums.
I was fortunate to work for five or six years on museums under the supervision of Shabouri’s office. We designed museums in Cairo, the UAE and Qatar. This experience was rich and exciting for me as it allowed me to work on large, significant projects in the architectural field. After leaving Shabouri’s office, I decided to start my own business in furniture design. I opened a furniture studio, focusing on computational design and digital manufacturing for two years. Unfortunately, the project didn’t succeed, as failure often accompanies success in different areas of life.
We Are All Kings by Hassan Ragab
Writings on the Walls by Hassan Ragab
How do you see yourself now, especially after moving to America?
Currently, I live between two identities. A part of me feels American, but I remain deeply connected to my Egyptian roots. Moving to America and experiencing life there allowed me to witness rapid societal changes in both Egypt and America. I see how these societal differences have profoundly impacted me, not only in my architectural practice but in my worldview as a whole.
What is the goal of your studio in California?
The goal is simple: to develop the visual language. I’m deeply passionate about visual language and believe I can evolve it beyond the traditional confines of architecture or furniture design.
Are you influenced by the advancements in artificial intelligence in your field?
Yes, and I’m fortunate to have been in the right place at the right time to explore artificial intelligence and integrate it into my work. Interacting with new technologies has helped me develop the visual language I’m striving for. AI provides me with immense possibilities.
Who is your Diva?
There are many, including Shadi Abdel Salam, Salah Jahin, Sayed Darwish, Oscar Wilde, Albert Camus, Roger Warhol, Pavarotti, Beethoven and Jane Jacobs. For me, all of them communicate with each other to form a grand picture, even though there is no direct connection between them.
