I am quite sensitive to politics, because you know, as an Arab, an Iraqi, all your life, you are very conscious of it.

I don't think that architecture is only about shelter, is only about a very simple enclosure. It should be able to excite you, to calm you, to make you think.

You have to really believe not only in yourself; you have to believe that the world is actually worth your sacrifices.

There are 360 degrees, so why stick to one?

Architecture is like writing. You have to edit it over and over so it looks effortless

You really have to have a goal. The goal posts might shift, but you should have a goal. Know what it is you want to find out.

The beauty of the landscape - where sand, water, reeds, birds, buildings, and people all somehow flowed together - has never left me.

I have always appreciated those who dare to experiment with materials and proportions.

Architecture is how the person places herself in the space. Fashion is about how you place the object on the person.

Yes, I'm a feminist, because I see all women as smart, gifted and tough.

I think about architecture all the time. That's the problem. But I've always been like that. I dream it sometimes.

Dare to research on the originality of any information.

No one can ever win by defeating someone

The power to change is already within you, ready to be discovered. Find new methods to deal with old routines. It is up to you to make the conscious choices that bring a better future.

Too much of a good thing is toxic

I always pet a dog with my left hand because if he bit me I'd still have my right hand to paint with.

A schedule defends from chaos and whim. A net for catching days.

Writers are completely out of touch with reality.

In simplicity, there is freedom - freedom to do less and enjoy more.

There is a limit to how much you can cut but there is no limit to how much you can earn.

It's better to look important than sexy.