Fauzia Khanani is one to watch. As Founder + Principal of Studio Fōr, she leads her team in high-profile local + international projects. Beyond gracefully navigating entrepreneurship, she serves with AIA New York. In every role, she brings her experience as a minority woman to change the face of architecture while creating similar opportunities for others.
Location: New York City
1. Beverage of choice?
Cold: A glass of seltzer with a splash of lemonade.
Hot: A cup of Lady Earl Grey tea with milk and honey.
2. What are you best known for?
I don’t believe I’m best-known or just plain know for anything, but I’d like to think that if I was known for anything, it would be for being a minority woman who is changing the face of architecture and for creating similar opportunities for others.
3. How did we meet?
Planning for the AIA Center for Architecture public event “Remix Resample Remaster: Identity and Making Architecture and subsequently you as a panelist and me as a moderator for the panel.
4. How did you get here?
After the “Remix” panel, all of the panelists and organizers went out for a bite. You were telling us about WALLEN+daub and asked if any of us would be interested. Of course, I was!
5. What are you compensated to do (job)?
Architecture!
6. What do you like to do?
Architecture (again!) as well as playing sports. I’m trying to get back to playing tennis in 2020. .
7. Can you suggest a book?
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi is a favorite- a graphic novel about a young girl’s life in Iran after the Islamic Revolution.
8. What is the best lesson you have taught someone?
That we as architects and designers have the ability to make a difference for others. It’s a responsibility that we should all take seriously and use for the greater good.
9. Where do you go to find inspiration?
I often look for inspiration when I’m traveling especially in nature. However I think inspiration exists all around me on a daily basis and it’s a just a matter of recognizing it. The sunset is a regular source.
10. Favorite city and why?
New York City. It’s a hub of creativity, diversity, and inclusivity.
11. What is your fondest memory?
Helping my grandfather take electrical equipment apart + then ‘try’ to put the pieces back together.
12. What advice would you give to future generations?
Everyone has the right to opportunity and success but do not take it for granted. Take it by the reigns.
13. What would you tell your younger self?
Have the utmost confidence in your gut.
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