Contemporary Architecture in Pakistan

Much like the political state of Pakistan, the architecture has also never really progressed or developed in its own way particular to the country. The post colonial and contemporary architectural period of Pakistan has struggled significantly. I find it funny how Pakistan can be noted for so many unique things, but how, when talking about architecture, is there not much to say. After its independence in 1947, the first decade provided little architectural development. Despite the stagnant state of Pakistan’s infrastructure, the first major achievement took place when the capital was relocated from Karachi to the newly designed city of Islamabad, located in Punjab. It should be noted that many of Islamabad’s major buildings were built by foreign firms, not Pakistani firms. Besides Islamabad other cities have added buildings, but among these are mostly educational schools, hospitals, mosques, and among others sea ports and airport terminals.

I wonder the cause of Pakistan’s lack in development particular to its own culture and architecture. Would it be reasonable to state that by out sourcing the country might have missed the chance to establish its own style? Of course there is architecture that Pakistan can call their own, but these buildings are mostly smaller projects, and not what we see in the few larger buildings in Pakistan.

Of course time will tell, but I think Pakistan will eventually find an identity architecturally sooner or later. I think the first step is establishing a stable government with an emphasis on education, and then we might see some progress leading in the right direction.