In this series of interviews, we meet the finalists shortlisted for the 2024 Women in Architecture and Construction Award. These women have made outstanding contributions to architecture and the built environment across the Near East and North Africa. The award features two categories: Rising Star and Woman of Outstanding Achievement.
This interview features Ula Merie, an Iraqi lecturer at the University of Babylon, specialising in post-colonial architecture and urbanism. Ula holds a PhD from the Sheffield School of Architecture, where her research focused on architectural responses to conflict and displacement. Her current work explores spatial justice, identity, and heritage themes in post-war cities, with support from institutions such as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Heritage Borders of Engagement Network. Ula’s research bridges theory and practice to create inclusive urban environments in the context of Iraq’s recovery.
In this conversation, Ula discusses her research on post-colonial architecture, the real-world impacts of her projects, her approach to translating critical topics like spatial justice into community change, the effectiveness of her ‘Urban Acupuncture’ interventions in cities like Babylon, and her vision for the future, offering guidance for young professionals in architecture.
Could you give us a brief introduction about yourself and your work?
I studied architecture at the University of Baghdad, where I earned my master’s degree. My early career included working as a site architect on projects in Jordan and Iraq, covering interior design, residential, and hotels. I later pursued an MA in Urban Design and Housing Planning at Baghdad, focusing on multidisciplinary fields like housing policies and public mobility.
2012, I joined the University of Babylon as a full-time assistant lecturer. During my three years there, I integrated my practical experience to enhance the learning environment, aiming to prepare students for real-world challenges. In 2015, I received a scholarship to pursue my Ph.D. at Sheffield School of Architecture, focusing on post-colonial architecture and the University of Baghdad’s narrative. My research has been presented at numerous conferences, and I’ve taught design at Sheffield, as well as led workshops on Ethics and Integrity.
Since 2020, I’ve returned to Babylon as a lecturer, where I support course development, postgraduate supervision, and ongoing research in areas like social-cultural studies, research ethics, and design theory.
Can you tell us more about your current role and the key responsibilities you have?
Since January 2020, I’ve been a Lecturer in Urban Design, Architecture History, and Theory at the University of Babylon. I also lead several programs, including the Architecture Design program and the Research Ethics department. As the Design Studio leader for third and fourth-year students, I oversee the development and organisation of design projects. I structure the studios into two phases: first, a theoretical background lecture followed by fieldwork analysis, and second, a conceptual phase where students develop their designs through brainstorming and sketching.
I also teach courses in Architecture History, Housing, and urban design theories and am involved in course administration and postgraduate supervision. Additionally, I serve on the examining board and scientific committees and work as a consultant architect, contributing to a wide range of projects, including education and residential buildings.
Can you share an example of a project where your research on post-colonial architecture had a real-world impact?
In my PhD research, I explored how post-colonial architecture in Iraq, particularly the University of Baghdad campus, played a role in shaping national identity. This research was published in a chapter for Architectural Pedagogy in MENA, where I examined how Baghdad’s changing political, economic, and cultural landscape influenced architectural education and modernism. I also submitted a paper analysing the University of Al al-Bayt’s design under the British Mandate, which reflected an attempt to merge traditional Iraqi identity with British architectural influence. My work reveals how architecture not only mirrors but also shapes a nation’s cultural and political narrative.
How do you translate critical topics like spatial justice and conflicted identities into meaningful changes for the communities you work with?
In post-2003 Iraq, I engaged architecture students in community-driven projects through urban design theory and studio work, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility. Participatory design, site observation, and case study analysis help reflect communities’ diverse identities, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Engaging with stakeholders through seminars and workshops raises awareness and addresses issues like urban segregation, conflict, and climate challenges. These efforts help students, practitioners, and academics advocate for designs that promote resilience and adaptability to political and cultural shifts.
Documenting urban history and community responses is crucial for understanding resilience and recovery and inspiring others facing similar challenges. My projects include Baghdad Behind Walls (GIGA Institute), The Urban Spaces in Baghdad Post-2003 (Journal of Urban Affairs), and a forthcoming book chapter on Place Wounding and Displacement Urbanism (UCL Press, 2024).
What indicators do you use to measure the success of your ‘Urban Acupuncture’ interventions in rapidly evolving cities like those in Iraq? Can you share an example of how this approach significantly impacted a community?
Urban acupuncture offers a powerful method for revitalising communities through small, targeted interventions that address specific urban challenges, foster social interaction, and improve public spaces. This approach is particularly valuable in the Middle East, where cities face rapid urbanisation and lack effective government policies.
Success indicators vary depending on each context’s culture, policies, and urban identity. Due to safety concerns, our onsite work in Iraq is delayed until 2025. Still, I’ve been building capacity by engaging students in fellowships and seminars on space syntax, GIS mapping, and research methods to assess community engagement and public space improvement. Fellowships were held at Kassel University in Germany and Alexandria University in Egypt.
One impactful example studied by Iraqi students was the revitalisation of Baghdad’s Al-Umma Park and Al Mutanabbi Street, where increased foot traffic and community activities strengthened residents’ sense of ownership and connection.
How do you decide which research areas, from housing policy to gender equality, take priority in your projects?
Prioritising research areas often involves assessing community needs, stakeholder input, and the potential for meaningful impact. Engaging with community members helps identify key issues—such as housing policy or gender equality—that align with the local context. Architecture, as a discipline, has the capacity to address these topics holistically.
Gender equality, in particular, is a crucial issue that needs continuous attention. Integrating it into urban planning and community development is essential for creating inclusive, safe, and accessible urban spaces. We can promote social equity, safety, and improved public spaces by incorporating women’s perspectives and needs in the design process. This includes raising awareness about the importance of safe pedestrian pathways and public transportation and aligning these efforts with housing policies to ensure women are actively involved in decision-making.
In my work, I place special emphasis on encouraging female students to participate in live projects within the design studio and initiatives like the DAAD-funded project Urban Acupuncture. I motivate them to apply, regardless of their affiliation with the University of Babylon or other Iraqi universities, to build platforms where their voices are heard and their contributions are valued.
How does architecture foster reconciliation in communities divided by political or social conflict?
In my paper “Baghdad Behind Walls: Mapping Urban Heritage for Spatial Justice”, published in The Middle East Journal, I discuss the relationship between history, conflict, heritage, and spatial practices as key to achieving what geographer Edward Soja calls “spatial justice”—the realisation of participatory democracy, access to resources, and how urban spaces shape social relations. As an Iraqi living through social conflict and urban changes, I argue that architecture and urban planning can work on multiple levels to foster reconciliation, promote social resilience, and create inclusive urban spaces.
Shared public spaces are easily accessible and adaptable for different community activities, and they can become symbols of shared identity. In my research, I examine a bridge connecting two of Baghdad’s oldest neighbourhoods, Adhamiya and Kadhimiya, and how it has become a symbol of social and cultural connection between these communities.
What are you most excited about pursuing in the next few years?
I’m particularly excited to explore how architecture can enhance community resilience and sustainability while fostering engagement. I aim to integrate innovative design approaches with local culture to create spaces that meet immediate needs and strengthen community ties in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Additionally, I plan to expand my research collaborations with other disciplines and NGOs, including heritage conservation, politics and policy, and feminism in urban design. I also encourage my students to engage in these initiatives to make a tangible impact on our communities.
What advice would you give architecture students or young professionals starting their careers?
Architecture bridges social sciences and engineering, making it a unique discipline that embraces various methodologies. I encourage my students to recognise that everyone is unique and that finding their design identity is key. Each student should develop their approach based on their interests, skills, and knowledge while also respecting and understanding the communities they serve. Listening, building trust with clients, and keeping an open mind are crucial, as architectural practice has no fixed boundaries.
Students must also be prepared for the technological challenges that may impact creativity. Building a strong foundation of skills and knowledge is essential, so I advise students to invest in their education today to shape their future success.
Meet our other finalists: Amal Abuelhawa, Hana Alamuddin, Hala Asslan, Eman Shafiq Mohamed Assi, Rozhen Kamal Mohammed-Amin, Sumaya Dabbagh, Lebriz Atan Karaatli, Rania Kaadan, Shatha Safi.
Meet Our Finalists series is a compilation of interviews with those who have been shortlisted for our awards. Ula Merie is a finalist for the Women in Architecture and Construction Award, which recognises women who have made outstanding contributions to architecture and the built environment across the Near East and North Africa.