Reza Karimi Lead Designer B.Sc, M.Sc, M.Arch

Profile
Reza joined Zaha Hadid Architects in 2017. As a former Aerospace Structures Engineer, he has gained few years of professional experience in engineering before starting to pursue architecture by entering the Master of Architecture programme at the University of Toronto in 2010. Prior to joining ZHA, he worked at few architectural practices in Toronto and London including Specialist Modelling Group within Foster + Partners as a Geometry Design Analyst.

Specialising in complex geometries, system design and parametric design, combined with the mathematical and analytical aptitude of his Aerospace Engineering background, his work mainly involves rationalization and panelisation of complex geometries. Developing comprehensive parametric algorithms from Schematic Design to Design Development stages, Reza ensures the designs maintains and balances the fluidity and aesthetics of the design intent.

Most recently, as a geometry specialist, he delivered a full parametric package to model, rationalize, and panelise the façade, facade system, and shading devices of Oppo Headquarters. Prior to this, he developed and delivered a similar package for Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre. He has also, as a parametric designer, contributed to several other projects of ZHA including apartments in China, student housing in Hong Kong, and Mercury tower.

Education and Academics
University of Miami: Guest Lecturer
University of Waterloo: Adjunct Professor
University of Toronto: Graduate Teaching Assistant
Master of Architecture Thesis: Form Finding algorithms for grid shells
Master of Aerospace Engineering Thesis: Crack Growth simulation within jet engines using Finite Element Analysis