Architecture | Planning | Urban Design | Sustainability
Books
Stefan Al has authored or edited ten 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.
His new book, Dwelling on Earth, will come out on April 22 2026.
“A thoughtful inquiry into the new generations of skyscrapers"
—The New York Times
“A refreshingly grounded design approach”
—Journal of Planning Education and Research
”Convincingly reinforces the links between sustainable cities and economic performance”
—National Urban Design Awards
Silver Medal, Independent Publisher Book Awards
Projects
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.
Architectural Design
Urban Design
Previous Experience
Keynote speaking
Stefan Al delivers keynote presentations that transform how audiences understand cities, sustainability, and the future of urban design. From TED stages to the Smithsonian, he translates complex urban challenges into actionable insights for architects, planners, business leaders, and policymakers. As a TED Resident and author of nine books, he brings research-backed perspectives on supertall buildings, climate resilience, and density to organizations worldwide.
“A thoughtful and dynamic presenter who perfectly balances academic insight with broad public appeal.”
Featured TED Talk: “Re-imagining Parking in an Autonomous Future”
Explore additional keynotes and topics on Stefan’s Speaking page
About
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, briefly the world’s tallest tower. A TED Resident and Green Good Design laureate, Al has published ten books that have earned acclaim in publications such as the New York Times. As a commentator on urbanism and design, he has appeared on CNN, NPR, and the Science Channel.
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
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