Layla Kia

ENGINEERING DESIGN JUROR

Layla is a structural engineer and architectural graduate of the University of New South Wales, and holds a PhD in timber engineering. Her research focuses on the development of expressive timber–steel hybrid systems for tall timber structures.

Her work is grounded in a tectonic approach to architecture, with a strong emphasis on the relationship between structure, site and climate. Of Persian heritage and born and raised in New Zealand, she brings a cross-cultural perspective to her work.

Layla is a passionate advocate for mass timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT) in residential and public buildings. She has collaborated closely with architects and builders, bringing a holistic and integrated approach to design. She has also contributed to academia as a guest consultant at the University of Technology Sydney, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales.