A Forum for Sustainable Cities and Communities, part of the 17th International Architecture Exhibition 2021
On October 15–16, 2021, Allen Sayegh and Stefano Andreani explored the future of our built environments, sharing insights from the book Responsive Environments (Actar Publishers) and research projects stemming from the joint initiative between the REAL Lab at Harvard GSD and the University of Bergamo, supported by Fondazione Pesenti, under the “Real Cities – Bergamo 2035” program.
The conference took place at the iconic Palazzo Michiel in Venice and was live-streamed on ECC Italy’s YouTube channel.
Shaping the City addressed the theme of contemporary urbanization, presenting and discussing key issues that shape cities today, thanks to contributions from a diverse group of academics, urban planners, designers, architects, policymakers, and scholars. Through presentations and roundtables, the forum reflected on the fundamental challenges and opportunities that shape global cities.
Speakers
Among the international speakers were:
Wael Al Awar, Golden Lion Winner and Curator of the National Pavilion of the United Arab Emirates
Walter Mariotti, Editorial Director of Domus
Nadia Mounajjed, Faculty Member of Architecture at Abu Dhabi University
Francesco Musco, Professor and Head of the Planning and Climate Change Lab at IUAV University of Venice
Ket themes
“Re-Imagining the City” examined how a city’s morphological dimension, including architectural character and urban environment, builds its unique identity. The roundtable focused on the sensory and experiential aspects of architecture and the distinctive features of urban spaces connected to citizens’ everyday activities
“Climate Change and Resilient Cities” explored urban systems’ interactions and discussed strategies for resilience and climate adaptation in city planning and development.
Cities are engines of change and represent a unique opportunity to shape the future of millions of inhabitants.
“Building Through Technology” focused on new sustainable and vernacular materials, this session explored modern construction solutions and emerging architectural technologies. Best practices were analyzed with the goal of identifying eco-friendly, alternative building materials to support the fight against climate change.
“Architecture for the People” addressed urban regeneration, social housing, and urban policies that have revitalized neglected parts of the urban fabric. Emphasis was placed on alternative housing solutions, especially in response to pressing issues like geopolitically driven migration, global warming, and environmental justice.
Shaping the City – Forum for sustainable cities and communities from VeniceDocumentationProject on Vimeo.
INSIGHTS