Architecture for SDG 5 (Gender Equality)
- Ahmed Abouaiana
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Let's assume that we need to reduce energy consumption in homes from your washing machine. If I ask the users, for example, Father and Mother: how can you reduce electricity consumption?
Do you think their answers differ? see the answer below
In line with our series on responsible architectural design that addresses SDGs today, we are exploring how we can design for Gender Equality (SDG 5).
Architecture can transform living spaces to better support women by providing safe, inclusive spaces for victims of violence or those seeking empowerment and by ensuring access to public facilities, enabling greater participation in social, economic, and political life.
Safety and security are essential to achieving gender equality. Key features to consider include bright lighting, clear sightlines, and efficient management of open spaces to minimize vulnerability. You can create spaces for women inside buildings or outdoor activities by considering no dark alleys (safety), offering child-friendly spaces (supporting working mothers), and promoting spaces that meet females' needs (see the example below)
Traditional household tasks (childcare, cooking, laundry) are often shouldered by women. What if we reimagined these tasks as shared responsibilities? Communal spaces (shared laundries, kitchens, or childcare hubs) can reduce individual burdens; this also fosters collaboration, social engagement, and stronger communities. As implemented in the project La Borda Housing Cooperative in Spain (https://www.re-dwell.eu/case-library/la-borda)
Women's empowerment is key to promoting gender equality, which means equal pay, opportunities, and leadership for women in different fields (construction, design, etc.).
Dear student, Did you know that women-friendly cities are a growing trend? Yes, cities worldwide are adopting gender-inclusive urban planning and prioritizing safety, accessibility, and equitable public spaces.
Here is a tip for you: the common courtyards or common rooftop gardens (Green Roofs) can support social support networks. Also, multifunctional indoor spaces can reduce unsafe travel (read No Poverty). All these design strategies can support woman-friendly built environments (these are interacting with other SDGs (read here).
You know the "Mashrabya" is a brilliant example of traditional architecture addressing privacy and gender needs, but modern design must go further by considering dynamic, activity-driven solutions for all users. Think you can translate it into a modern cultural design solution (dynamic facade) to promote flexible, inclusive, and activity-focused (for gender equality). Stop and think: If we have this in our civilization, why do our architects (they were students) design today's buildings?!
I believe that you are a conscientious student who considers users' needs. Please remember that SDGs are not a rigid rulebook. Gender equality and sustainability have deep roots in traditional architecture (such as Mashrabiya, courtyards, or vernacular cooling systems) long before the term "SDGs" existed.
As you know, the SDGs are recognized globally and wherever you are from each country sets its national goals. So you can consider gender equality in your designs with other SDGs, respecting culture and innovative solutions. You are a Conscious Architect. Small steps lead to big achievements!
Dr.Ahmed Abouaiana, April 2025
Some references:
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