Considered the ‘Einstein of Structural Engineering’, this Renowned Muslim Architect Revolutionized Skyscraper Construction in the US

May 06, 2024 06:05 PM CDT

America's architectural identity has been significantly shaped by Fazlur Rahman Khan, a renowned Muslim architect whose contributions are widely celebrated.

Hailing from Dhaka, Bangladesh, Khan gained fame as the "Einstein of structural engineering" for his pioneering work in revolutionizing skyscraper construction through the development of a novel frame tube system.

Born in Bhandari Kandii, Dhaka, in 1929, Khan came from humble beginnings. His father, a high school mathematics teacher, encouraged him to pursue civil engineering.

Acknowledged for his academic prowess, he received both a Fulbright Scholarship and a grant from the government of Pakistan. He set out for the US in 1952 to commence his career in architecture.

Upon joining the renowned Chicago firm Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, Khan swiftly made a name for himself by introducing a pioneering design concept.

His inventive tube system, as he articulated it, comprised interconnected frames, braced frames, or shear walls, forming a vertical structural framework. This innovative approach exhibited exceptional resistance to lateral forces by effectively cantilevering from the foundation.

Khan’s novel approach utilized the perimeter wall of structures to resemble a slender tube, rather than relying on solid central cores. This innovation greatly enhanced the tall towers' ability to withstand horizontal forces such as strong winds or seismic vibrations.

Moreover, this method not only improved structural resilience but also resulted in significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact due to the reduced requirement for materials.

Khan's groundbreaking concept of the tube structure fundamentally altered how tall buildings are designed. This innovative approach has been embraced globally in the construction of skyscrapers, including notable landmarks like the World Trade Center, Aon Centre, Petronas Towers, Jin Mao Building and Bank of China Tower, as well as many other high-rise structures erected since the 1960s.

The enduring impact of Khan's tube structure design is prominently displayed in the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest skyscraper located in Dubai.

Aside from reshaping urban landscapes, Khan was among the first to embrace computer-aided design in architecture, even during its nascent stage in his lifetime.

Even after acquiring American citizenship in 1967, Khan remained closely tied to his heritage and continued to contribute to charitable causes. His efforts were instrumental in raising emergency relief funds for Bengalis during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.

AMT takes a look at some of Khan’s most iconic work:

DeWitt-Chestnut Apartments, Chicago, 1963