In this episode of Syria: Alternative Dialogues, architects and researchers Iyas Shahin and Wesam Al Asali join us for an in-depth conversation exploring urban planning in Syria after 14 years of conflict.

The discussion addresses the complex impact of war on Syria’s cities—not only the destruction of physical infrastructure, but also the disruption of social cohesion and local communities. Iyas and Wesam share insights from their academic work and their joint experience founding IWlab, a research platform that bridges architectural practice, education, and participatory urban knowledge.

Throughout the episode, the guests emphasize the need for an accurate diagnosis of current urban conditions before proposing any reconstruction models. They examine the risks of top-down reconstruction driven by political and financial interests, highlighting projects such as Marota City as examples of exclusionary and neoliberal redevelopment.

Drawing on comparative experiences, including the post-conflict reconstruction of Nahr El-Bared refugee camp in Lebanon, the conversation offers reflections on the value of local participation, community-driven planning, and interdisciplinary knowledge production in shaping urban recovery.

The episode also explores the role of cultural heritage and environmental sustainability in rebuilding Syria’s cities, advocating for resource-sensitive approaches rooted in local knowledge and traditions rather than imported models.

In closing, Iyas underscores that environmental and spatial justice are essential foundations for any sustainable peace in Syria. Wesam addresses young Syrian architects, encouraging them to draw on their personal experiences to contribute to a more just and inclusive urban future.

About the Guests:

Iyas Shahin
Architect, researcher, and artist. He holds a BA in Architecture from Damascus University (2007), a Master’s in Architectural and Urban Design, and a PhD in Housing Design. Currently a lecturer at the Faculty of Architecture, Damascus University, his work focuses on crisis-responsive architecture, heritage preservation, spatial justice, urban design, and participatory methods. He has contributed to research and cultural projects in the UK, Finland, Italy, and the Arab region.

Wesam Al Asali
Architect, researcher, and professor. He studied at Damascus University and earned his Master’s and PhD in Architecture and Urban Studies from Cambridge University. His work bridges design, research, and education. He received the RIBA President’s Award and Salje Medal from Cambridge. Wesam is a visiting fellow at Princeton, Assistant Professor at IE School of Architecture in Spain, and founder of CERCAA in Valencia.

About IWlab:

Founded by Iyas and Wesam in Damascus, IWlab is a research platform combining architectural practice and education, focused on urbanism, heritage, and reconstruction in crisis settings. In 2024, IWlab received the UNESCO Global Award for Sustainable Architecture for its work in education, traditional crafts, and crisis-responsive building practices.

Host: Rabie Nasser – Researcher and co-founder of the Syrian Center for Policy Research.
Episode produced by: Reem Takriti, Syrian Center for Policy Research

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