In the introduction of each GEN Z Series interview, I have been giving tips how the younger generation of professionals can shape up to sharpen their professional career. I am very sure that no one really bothers to give such priceless tips to the students, who are all set to embark in the professional circuit with little or no knowledge how to deal with the challenges to adapt in the new environment. Gradually, they do learn to adapt or are surprised to be in a complete new working environment. However, I strongly believe that every senior professional should groom the younger generation of professionals by teaching them the professional tricks of the trade.
Earthquake Memorial Exterior View
It is certainly not wrong for the younger generation of professionals to be too eager and in hurry to make it big and earn well – after all we all are working to earn money. Architecture, like all other professions, has its own plus and minus rigours to make a name. At times, one innovative and unique design creation can get you instant global recognition – but majority of the times, it takes years to reach the pinnacle. Perseverance to excel in one’s creativity and moving in the right circuit make all the difference. I know, I may sound like preaching the younger generation, who really dislikes being preached – but to understand, value and know the tricks of the trade are the ultimate mantra of success in Architecture.
Hall of Hope
From Surabaya, Indonesia – the GEN Z Series travels to the Himalayan State of Nepal to meet a very compassionate and creative Nepalese Architect Aayushi Tamang. She hails from Kathmandu. In May 2025, Aayushi Tamang completed her B. Arch from Institute of Engineering, Tribhuvan University, Pulchowk Campus, Nepal. She enthuses, “I am proud to be the first in my family to achieve this milestone (smiles)! My parents run a small business in our hometown. They have always been hardworking and determined. Their dedication has deeply inspired and shaped my work ethics. Throughout my academic journey, my family has been a constant source of support. From encouraging me during long nights to helping me build physical models, their involvement has been both meaningful and motivating.”
Sanctuary of Souls
Aayushi Tamang is currently working as the Head of Graphic Design at Vaastu – an annual architecture magazine – published by the Department of Architecture Pulchowk Campus, Nepal. She reveals, “This opportunity has allowed me to merge my interest in design with my architectural education, helping me develop both creative and leadership skills. As I step into the professional world, I carry with me the values of resilience, collaboration and dedication – instilled by my family and refined through my academic and creative experiences.”
Master Plan
Her amazing thesis ‘Earthquake Memorial: Echoes of Resilience, Lalitpur’reflects her compassionate nature, which is filled with gratitude and empathy towards her country’s tragic catastrophe. Aayushi Tamang’s quest in the architecture world is indeed noteworthy for who she is. Johnny D has a lovely interaction with Aayushi Tamang to know more about Nepalese architecture and its challenges ahead.
What was your childhood ambition? Have you always wanted to become an architect?
Growing up, I wanted to become a doctor, because it was the only profession I truly knew at the time (smiles). As I was growing up, my inclination towards creative activities like: DIY projects, building a dog house out of bricks and sand in my garden, or constantly changing the layout of my room. Looking back, I realized that all these interests were gently guiding me toward architecture.
Ascend of Hope
How has architecture influenced your life as a student?
Back then, as an architecture student, there was always a drive to become better each day. The sleepless nights, countless assignments and relentless deadlines, in one way or another, shaped my life into a journey of discipline and continuous learning. Architecture taught me to see the world differently – it gave me a new perspective on nature and the built environment. It has truly transformed my life!
Site Analysis
Briefly tell us about your University and the Course.
I completed my Bachelor’s degree at the Department of Architecture, Pulchowk Campus, under Tribhuvan University. Pulchowk Campus is recognized as one of the top institutions for pursuing an engineering degree in Nepal and is also one of the most competitive to gain admission into. During my five-year journey, I was able to expand my knowledge significantly and developed a keen interest in urban design and planning.
Hall of Fragments
Briefly describe the significance of your project with the ‘Title of the Project and Site Location’.
Project Title – Earthquake Memorial: Echoes of Resilience
Site Location – Lalitpur, Nepal
‘Earthquake Memorial: Echoes of Resilience’ is a tribute to the victims and survivors of the 2015 Nepal earthquake. This memorial symbolizes the nation’s journey from loss to recovery, with architectural elements that echo the cracks and ruptures caused by the disaster. It serves as a place of reflection, honouring the resilience and unity of the Nepali people as they rebuilt their lives and communities in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Background: The Nepal earthquake was a devastating event that struck Nepal on the 25th of April 2015. With a magnitude of 7.8, its epicenter was located in the Gorkha district. The earthquake caused widespread destruction across the country, resulting in the loss of over 8,962 lives and injuring more than 21,952 individuals.
Concept
Concept: The project is a poetic description of the journey of 2015 earthquake, which aims to honor the stories of individuals impacted by these events. Through a range of emotions, this journey transforms one’s state of mind from day-to-day, gradually bringing a sense of understanding to the tragic nature of past events. The journey of the memorial starts with feelings of discomfort and fear.
Upon entering, visitors are led through a confined alley with narrow walls, which creates a sensation of claustrophobia, echoing the unpredictability and fear experienced during the earthquake. The path immediately transitions into a darker, more chaotic space, symbolizing the destruction and confusion that followed the disaster.
Elevations and Exterior Views
Which National or International architect has inspired / influenced you? Please specify as to why?
I am inspired by Tadao Ando, a self-taught architect whose work reflects a deep understanding of space, light and nature. His minimalist, yet powerful approach has taught me that simplicity can hold profound expression. His journey reminds me that passion, persistence and curiosity can lead to greatness – even beyond traditional paths. Similarly, I strive to shape my thinking towards creating spaces that are not only highly functional, but also emotionally impactful by using light as a powerful medium to transform and elevate the experience of architecture.
Floor Plan – Memorial Block
What are the current prospects and challenges of jobs’ opportunities for fresh young architects in Kathmandu, Nepal? Elucidate briefly.
Fresh architecture graduates in Kathmandu face both opportunities and challenges alike. The growing urban development and increasing demand for skilled designers offer promising prospects, especially in areas like housing, urban planning and heritage conservation. However, they often struggle with limited practical experience, low starting salaries and high competition. Building a strong portfolio, gaining hands-on experience through internships and staying updated with design tools can help overcome these challenges.
Crumbles Zone
As an Intern, what is the most important lesson(s) you have learned from senior architects, while being a part of a project?
One of the most important lessons I learned from senior architects during my internship was the ‘value of designing with purpose’. They taught me that every line drawn should have intention – balancing aesthetics with function. I also learned the importance of clear communication, both within the design team and with clients, and how collaboration and adaptability are crucial throughout a project’s development. Observing how they handled challenges with calm professionalism and attention to detail left a lasting impression on me.
Design Development
Against the ethos of architecture field, ‘Hostile Architecture’ has become an eyesore and fast changing the urban landscape of prominent cities around the world. Elucidate your perspectives about this unwanted trend in urban landscape.
Hostile architecture, often designed to deter certain behaviors like sleeping, skating, or loitering, stands in stark contrast to the inclusive ethos of architecture. It reflects a growing insensitivity in urban design, prioritizing control over compassion. Rather than addressing the root causes of issues like homelessness, it pushes vulnerable communities further to the margins.
In my view, this trend is deeply problematic – it reduces public spaces to instruments of exclusion rather than places of connection and belonging. Architecture should serve all people with dignity, creating environments that are welcoming, humane and socially responsive.
Bus Stand Shelter, Pulchowk – Hostile Architecture
Which significant aspects of the global platform ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ did you liked the most, and why?
I find the concept behind the GEN Z Series on ‘zerobeyond – the new frontier!’ both powerful and timely! At a moment, when our generation is often discussed through the lens of challenges and stereotypes, the global platform offers a refreshing counter-narrative – one that celebrates creativity, ambition and global exchange.
What excites me the most about the GEN Z category is its ability to spotlight young architects from all across the world, each bringing unique cultural insights and forward-thinking design creations!
Sectional View
The “Global Urban Failure” has seen all the major cities being flooded 365 days of each year. Elucidate your perspectives and solutions as to how can the future of urban planning of cities / villages can be tackled to overcome this existential crisis in respect to Kathmandu, Nepal?
The “Global Urban Failure”, seen through frequent urban flooding, highlights poor planning and neglect of natural systems. In Kathmandu, rapid urbanization, unplanned settlements and loss of open spaces have worsened this issue. To tackle it, future urban planning must prioritize sustainable drainage systems, restore natural waterways and enforce zoning laws.
Integrating green infrastructure like permeable pavements, rain gardens and urban forests can help absorb excess water. Community-based planning and stricter building regulations are also essential to create resilient, flood-resistant cities and villages.
Axonometric View
Looking at the past in the current present, what are the futuristic Architectural changes you would like to see in your home city / town? Elucidate the reasons for your vision.
Looking at Kathmandu’s past and its rich architectural heritage, I envision a future where modern development harmoniously blends with traditional design. I would like to see more context-sensitive architecture that respects the city’s cultural identity, while incorporating sustainable technologies. This includes the use of local materials, passive design strategies and green infrastructure to combat urban challenges like pollution, flooding and overpopulation.
I also hope for more inclusive public spaces that encourage community interaction. My vision stems from the belief that Kathmandu’s future should not erase its past, but rather evolve from it – creating a city that is resilient, rooted and forward-looking.
Section – Memorial Block
Honours and awards related to architecture, if any.
- Top 4 in Kaleidoscope – Asian Paints Design Competition College round
- Top 5 in Bishram- Design Competition by Yatra 2080
Final Thesis Presentation
Image Courtesy: Aayushi Tamang