Fazlur Rahman Khan, structural engineer and architect, father of tubular designs

Fazlur Rahman Khan, structural engineer and architect, father of tubular designs for high-rises such as Willis Tower(AKA Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center

Fazlur Rahman Khan (3 April 1929 – 27 March 1982) was a Bangladeshi-American structural engineer and architect who initiated important structural systems for skyscrapers. He is recognized as one of the most influential engineers and architects of the 20th century, and has been called "the father of tubular designs for high-rises" by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Khan was also a pioneer in computer-aided design. He is the designer of the Willis Tower, the second-tallest building in the United States and the 100-story John Hancock Center.

 

Khan helped usher in a renaissance in skyscraper construction during the second half of the 20th century. The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat named their lifetime achievement medal after him.