Mona Elamin

“Going through architecture school, several internships, and some work experience, I came to realize architecture is to narrate, create, and better individuals' stories.”

WomenWhoBuild, Meet Mona Elamin!

Mona is a Sudanese emerging architect based in Houston. She received her Master of Architecture from Rice University, and her Bachelor of Architecture from the American University of Sharjah. Her professional experience extends between Dubai and Houston working for offices like RMJM, U+A Architects, Gensler, and Shepley Bulfinch. While pursuing her master's, Mona was the managing editor of PLAT, a 2017 recipient of Graham Foundation grant and a 2019 participant in Oslo Architecture Triennale. More recently, she joined the Houston chapter of NOMA and became involved in the planning of Houston's Project Pipeline Summer Camp. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey in architecture? 

I am your typical Third Culture Kid; I am of Sudanese origin, but I was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. My journey in architecture began when I first moved to the United Arab Emirates to enroll at the American University of Sharjah pursuing my bachelor's degree. After graduation, I had the opportunity of moving to the United States, but I decided to take the time to learn more about the profession in Dubai without realizing I had totaled 8 years as a resident there. When I finally decided to move to the US in 2016, I chose to enroll at Rice University to pursue my master’s in architecture. As of now, Houston stands as home. 

What was your first introduction to the field? 

I was first introduced to architecture in high school by a family friend whom I consider an older sister.  I was naive enough to think of architecture simply as math, a little bit of imagination, and maybe some science. Going through architecture school, several internships, and some work experience, I came to realize architecture is to narrate, create, and better individuals' stories. 

What about the industry enticed you to make it your career?

Rebellion; I had always known I would go into the science field, I was expected to become a doctor, I even pictured myself as a surgeon, but I changed my mind in my last year of high school as I decided to pursue a more creative profession. Studying architecture was not something I envisioned and I kind of fell into it. I then developed a sincere appreciation for the design process and conceptual realization. Towards my last years in the UAE, I realized Architecture is more than a career; it is a lifestyle.

What did you like the most about Architecture school? What did you like the least? 

I consider myself a part-time extrovert, and I would be misleading if I do not state my appreciation for the sense of community and collaboration in architecture. Fortunately, both are displayed and expected throughout the profession. I also enjoyed solving problems, critical thinking, and creating stories and new paths for people. I disliked the work/life imbalance which tends to be exhibited in the profession. I am still learning how to navigate this with less guilt. 

How would you describe your architecture style?

I generally do not like the phrase "architecture style" as I prefer to think of architecture as diverse. When I think Architecture; I think people and people are diverse. I am also still learning about myself as an emerging architect, and I strive to find my style by constant attention to details, complexities, and research.  

How do you approach each project? 

I look at each project as a design problem to be solved. I approach it by creating different parameters, if not provided, and various design routes.  I spend adequate time researching, studying precedents, and narrowing down options that describe better stories, create reliable spaces, and celebrate surroundings and existing conditions. I look at constraints as opportunities, not mere challenges. I finally allow myself to enjoy the process. 

Where do you draw inspiration? 

My design inspiration comes from research, existing conditions, and people's stories. My professional inspiration comes from projects by minority architects like David Adjaye and Mariam Kamara, and what pushes me even more is the lack of Black female representation in the field of architecture which I hope to change one day. 

What is one piece of advice you have for women entering the field?

Patience; this is one thing I constantly remind myself of on a daily basis. Additionally, stay confident, resilient, critical, and continue to learn.