As seen in:
“Architect, urban designer, and educator Stefan Al integrates sustainability into design practice to meet the practical challenges of contemporary cities.”
Stefan Al has authored or edited nine books that confront the urgent questions facing modern cities—how to build at extreme density, achieve true sustainability, and create climate resilience. His work bridges academic rigor and real-world application, earning recognition from scholarly journals to mainstream media, and shaping how architects, planners, and policymakers approach urban transformation.
From skyline icons to climate prototypes, Stefan’s portfolio spans master-planned districts, high-rise towers and cultural buildings.
Highlights include design work on the 2,000-foot Canton Tower (while at Information Based Architecture) —briefly the world’s tallest—and mixed-use plans that knit housing, office, transit, and public space into one low-carbon urban fabric.
Stefan Al, PhD RA LEED is an architect, urban designer, and author focused on sustainable, people-centered buildings and cities. He directs the Urban Planning program at CUNY Hunter College and has advised planning agencies on high‑density development and climate resilience. His project experience includes design work on the 2000-feet tall Canton Tower. A TED Resident and Green Good Design laureate, his nine books—including Supertall —have appeared in the New York Times and on CNN.
Quick facts
Licensed architect — NY & NL
LEED Accredited Professional
15+ years on high-rise & masterplan projects
Frequent media guest such as on Science Channel, CBS & NPR
“Re-imagining Parking in an Autonomous Future”
Explore additional keynotes and topics on Stefan’s Speaking page