Today, with sophisticated telecommunications and internet technology bridging cultural and physical gaps around the world, there is a risk that the fusion of modernity and local culture strips both of their important characteristics. This tendency is perhaps most noticeable in the developing countries.

The Aga Khan Award for Architecture was established in 1977 to bring to international attention the work of architects and designers working in the Muslim world, specifically to communicate those projects that demonstrate excellence in promoting local building traditions, rehabilitating urban fabrics and rural townships and forging new architectural languages and modes of creation.

Chosen by an international jury of experts on architecture and planning, renowned architects Ricardo Legorreta and Glenn Murcutt and artist Mona Hatoum, nine projects – from Morocco to Iran, from infrastructure improvements to a luxury hotel – reveal just how far building and community involvement can go to improve life. Each project is shown in drawings, project descriptions and a portfolio of photographs that capture the humanity each of these projects has brought to their surroundings.

A special section is devoted to the great Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, recipient of the Chairman’s Award, whose work has had a profound influence around the world.

Architecture historian Kenneth Frampton provides an overview of the works and a context for their importance in the history of architecture and regional modernism.

This book is a celebration of buildings of distinct character that will provide long-term benefit to everyone that comes into contact with them – and in them are lessons for everyone.