Gender Perspective in Architecture is, unfortunately, still a reality today. Throughout the history of architecture, the names of prominent male figures have primarily stood out, but many women have left an indelible mark in this field. Despite being largely invisible for decades, their innovations have advanced gender equality and improved the lives of many people.
Below, we present four women who transformed the world of architecture: Julia Morgan, Susana Torre, Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, and Rita Fernández Queimadelos.
Julia Morgan: Pioneer of architecture and feminist collaborator
The American architect Julia Morgan made history by becoming the first female architect in the world, graduating from the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris in 1902. Throughout her career, she designed over 700 buildings during 50 years of work, including Merrill Hall, the Heritage Retirement Community residence, Derge House, the Roman Pool at Hearst Castle, and numerous public and residential buildings. These buildings are notable for their influence on the Beaux-Arts style and her commitment to projects that supported women.
One of her key achievements was working for the YMCA (Young Women’s Christian Association), a feminist organisation that promoted women’s well-being and empowerment. This connection reflects her alignment with movements advocating for gender equality, in addition to her involvement in iconic public and residential works.
Her life and work not only transformed the field of architecture but also had a significant impact on advancing women in professions traditionally dominated by men.
Susana Torre: Architectural innovation and the fight for gender equality
Susana Torre, an Argentine-American architect, has revolutionised architecture with her focus on gender equality. Born in 1944 in Púan, Argentina, she studied at the National University of La Plata and the University of Buenos Aires before specialising at Columbia University in New York.
Her work blends design, teaching, and theory to challenge stereotypes and create inclusive spaces. She is particularly noted for her curation of “Women in Architecture in the U.S.,” which highlighted the contributions of women in the field. Among her iconic works are Firehouse 5 (1984-1987) in Columbia and the Carboneras community (2008).
She has taught at multiple universities, and her impact on feminist architecture has been recognised internationally, solidifying her legacy in social transformation through design.
Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky: Innovation for everyday life
Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, the first Austrian female architect, left an indelible mark on the history of design and urban planning with her focus on domestic efficiency and social equity. Born in 1897 in Vienna, she graduated in 1918 and revolutionised architecture with the iconic Frankfurt Kitchen (1927), an innovative modular system that optimised household work and democratized access to functional housing.
From the outset, Schütte-Lihotzky advocated for socially conscious architecture. She worked alongside Adolf Loos at the Vienna Housing Secretariat and later with Ernst May in Frankfurt, where her designs addressed the real needs of the population. Her commitment to equity extended beyond her professional work: she was part of the Austrian resistance during World War II, was imprisoned, and after her release, she continued to champion rights for women and working families.
Throughout her life, she received multiple recognitions, including the Vienna Architecture Prize (1980) and the Gold Cross of Honour of Austria (1997). Her legacy continues to influence inclusive housing projects, solidifying her as a pioneer who transformed architectural design into a tool for social change.
Rita Fernández Queimadelos: Pioneer of architecture in Spain
Rita Fernández Queimadelos, born in 1911 in A Cañiza, Pontevedra, was the second woman to graduate in architecture in Spain. Despite initial challenges, such as her father’s opposition, she managed to study architecture with the support of her maternal grandmother. She trained at the School of Architecture in Madrid, graduating in 1940 after her studies were interrupted by the Spanish Civil War.
Throughout her career, she worked in both the public and private sectors. She was one of the first women to hold positions such as municipal architect and provincial school architect. In the early stages of her career, she worked at the Directorate-General for Devastated Regions, participating in key projects such as the rehabilitation of the Women’s Protection Trust (1944) and the repair of Fuenlabrada Town Hall (1946). Her most notable project was the Tercio y Terol Colony, a housing development in Carabanchel.
In the 1950s, she moved to Murcia, where she continued her work at the Board of School Constructions and as a municipal architect in Mula. In the late 1970s, she retired in Barcelona, where she passed away in 2008. Her legacy endures as an example of the fight for the inclusion of women in architecture and her commitment to improving housing and public spaces.
From left to right: Julia Morgan, Susana Torre, Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky and Rita Fernández Queimadelos.
