Architecture for Better Living in Luxembourg
Shahram Agaajani, founder and partner of Metaform, shares his vision of architecture as a discipline that shapes society. Along with highlighting his most meaningful projects, he discusses Luxembourg’s rapid urban growth, the challenges faced by local architects, and the country’s changing architectural landscape.
How do you define the role of architecture in society?
Architecture goes beyond simply creating buildings. It plays a vital role in shaping society. For me, this discipline thrives on collaboration, daily interactions, and teamwork. A stark reminder of this came during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the collaborative process and led to a loss of creative enrichment due to isolation. I firmly believe that architecture must address the needs of its environment and enhance the quality of life by designing spaces that foster human interaction and connection. In addition, it’s crucial to integrate modern ecological and economic considerations. Architecture should inspire emotions, create a sense of belonging, and ultimately serve as a bridge between artistic creativity, technical progress, and societal demands.
What challenges and opportunities do architects face in Luxembourg’s rapid development?
Luxembourg’s fast-paced urban development, fuelled by its booming financial sector, has led to what can be described as “opportunistic urbanism which often lacks long-term vision and sustainability.” While the country has experienced significant economic success, this growth has also created challenges in urban planning, with a noticeable lack of coherent, forward-thinking strategies. This short-term approach makes the city vulnerable, especially during crises when development slows, and social cohesion can be affected. At the same time, local architects face difficulties gaining the same recognition as international “star architects.” A prime example is Skypark at the Luxembourg airport, a collaboration between Metaform and the globally renowned firm BIG. While local architects possess great talent, their impact may be limited without international exposure. Nevertheless, partnering with famous architects presents an opportunity to elevate Luxembourg’s architectural landscape, introduce fresh ideas, and inspire the local architectural community, enriching the country’s built environment.
“Architecture is born from constraints”
What are the key projects you are proudest of?
I take pride in all my projects, as each represents a distinct human experience, but a few hold special significance for me. One such project is the residential building in Domelange, which I completed for my father shortly before he passed away, making it deeply personal and meaningful. Another project I’m particularly proud of is the headquarters of La Poste, situated in a densely populated urban area near a historic station. The complexity of integrating the building into its historical and urban context was a major challenge, and I’m immensely proud of my team for their exceptional work. The trust and collaboration with the client played a crucial role in the design’s success, and while the building’s striking staircase often stands out, it’s the deeper sense of mutual respect that shaped the project’s outcome. Finally, the Paul-Würth headquarters is another highlight, where we introduced an innovative approach by transforming a sterile courtyard into a shared urban space. This design allows the building’s facilities to be used by the surrounding community, embodying our commitment to creating multifunctional, inclusive spaces.
