Hosein Sheikh Zeinodin Information

Hosein Sheikh Zeinodin – Biography

Early Life and Education

Hosein Sheikh Zeinodin was born on January 28, 1942, in Tehran, Iran. He pursued his studies in architecture at the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, earning his master’s degree in 1968 1346 SH. From his student years, he was actively engaged in professional architectural practice and supplementary studies, which laid the foundation for his distinguished career.

Professional Career

Sheikh Zeinodin began his professional career as a consulting engineer in 1974 1353 SH. Over the years, he took on various roles, including CEO and board member of Bavand Consulting Engineers since 1982 1361 SH. His architectural contributions span diverse domains, including governmental, administrative, public, diplomatic, educational, industrial, and historic restoration projects from 1967 to 2006 1346–1385 SH.

He played a pivotal role in urban planning and architectural policymaking in Iran. Notable positions include:

• Member of the Advisory Council of Tehran Municipality 1992
• Member of the Architectural Education Council at Islamic Azad University, Tehran Branch 1992
• Member of the Renovation Planning Committee for the Area Surrounding the Shrine of Imam Reza Mashhad 1993
• Member of the Expert Council for Urban Textures, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 1997
• Head of the Technical Committee of Arak, Urban Development & Renovation Company 1999
• Strategic Advisor for Development Projects at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 1999
• Architectural and Urban Planning Advisor at the International Center for Dialogue Among Civilizations 2000

Design Philosophy

Sheikh Zeinodin views architecture as an art form that extends beyond pure creativity, directly impacting the social, economic, and cultural aspects of societies. He believes that architects embody a dual persona—a creative identity and a managerial identity. According to him, while creativity forms the essence of an architect’s personality, its expression must align with the recognized norms and frameworks of society.

Major Works

One of his most notable architectural achievements is the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Japan, a project that highlights his expertise in diplomatic architecture.

Academic Contributions

With the reopening of universities after the Cultural Revolution in Iran, Sheikh Zeinodin engaged in academia, teaching architecture at the University of Tehran, Iran University of Science and Technology, and Islamic Azad University. His educational and research contributions include:

• Planning and Research at Islamic Azad University 2000
• Instructor in Architecture Training Programs for Urban Development Managers, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development 1998
• Supervising Master’s and PhD Theses in Architecture
• Jury Member in Architectural Competitions

Publications and Research

Sheikh Zeinodin has authored numerous articles and research papers on architecture and urban planning. His key publications include:

• “The History of Architectural Education in Iran”
• “Balance in Architecture”
• “Iranian Architecture”
• “What Can Be Done to Islamize the Urban Landscape?” Published in the Abadi Journal, 1992–1996
• Co-authored “Contemporary Mosque Architecture in Islamic Countries” London, 1995
• “Identity of the Occupier” – Published in the book Reviving the Values of Iranian Architectural Art 1998

Honors and Recognition

In 2000 1379 SH, Sheikh Zeinodin was recognized as one of the 60 Distinguished Architects in 60 Years by the Association of Architects of the University of Tehran. That same year, he was awarded Iran’s Pirnia Architecture Medal, a prestigious recognition for his contributions to Iranian architecture.