Mark your calendars for May 21st as UIC Barcelona School of Architecture prepares to welcome a titan in the field, Kengo Kuma, to its prestigious FOROS conference. 

Kengo Kuma & Associates (KKAA), an internationally acclaimed architectural firm with offices in Tokyo, Paris, Beijing, and Shanghai, is synonymous with innovation and reverence for tradition.

This June, attendees of UIC Barcelona's FOROS conference will have the privilege of delving into Kuma's visionary work, which embodies a harmonious blend of natural materials, environmental stewardship, and a profound appreciation for landscapes. Lorenzo Chelleri, esteemed researcher at UIC Barcelona and director of the university's international master's program in City Resilience Design and Management, along with his role as president of the Urban Resilience Research Network (URNet), underscores the interdisciplinary nature of this event.

Kuma's keynote address promises to be a highlight of FOROS 2024, offering invaluable insights into his creative process and the principles that underpin his architectural masterpieces. From the tranquil serenity of the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Tokyo to the breathtaking National Stadium in Tokyo for the 2020 Olympics, Kuma's portfolio exemplifies a commitment to excellence and sustainability.

FOROS isn't just about theoretical discourse; it's about nurturing the next generation of architects. By exposing students to diverse viewpoints and contemporary architectural practices, FOROS enriches their academic journey and broadens their horizons. Each sesión has offered attendees a deep dive into thematic layers such as typology, urbanism, innovation, heritage, ecology, and technology, illuminating architecture's multifaceted role in society. The impact of such initiatives extends beyond the lecture hall, influencing students' design approaches and shaping their professional trajectories. The conference format, featuring paired presentations by architects and complementary perspectives, fosters lively debates and deeper insights. Each session delves into various thematic layers such as typology, urbanism, innovation, heritage, ecology, and technology, providing a comprehensive exploration of architecture's multifaceted role in shaping the future.

FOROS began in February 2024 with Benjamin Romano's elucidation of the architectural parti of the Torre Reforma, a skyscraper that has become an icon of Mexico City. His insights, coupled with Santi Mercadé's perspective on the role of the real estate sector, underscored the symbiotic relationship between architectural vision and pragmatic implementation.

Subsequent sessions further expanded the discourse. Albert Civit and Pablo Molina's exploration of "zero gravity urbanism" challenged conventional notions of city planning, advocating for a holistic approach that balances nature, conservation, livability, and sustainable progress. Dietmar Eberle and Hugo Herrera's discussion on "2226 and the future of architecture" showcased innovative approaches to energy-efficient design, while Stefan Behnisch and Ana Mercadé delved into the integration of high-tech and low-tech solutions in architecture, exemplified by their work on Harvard University's Science and Engineering Complex.

The recent session, led by David Chipperfield and Manuel Rodríguez, offered a profound reflection on the limits of architecture and the role of organizations like the Fundación Ría in shaping strategic territorial planning. Their emphasis on sustainability, decentralization, and social engagement resonated deeply with attendees.

FOROS isn't merely a platform for theoretical discourse; it's a catalyst for nurturing the next generation of architects. By exposing students to diverse viewpoints and contemporary practices, FOROS enriches their academic journey and equips them to address the complex challenges of our time.

UIC Barcelona's commitment to fostering a diverse range of master's programs reflects its dedication to cultivating well-rounded architects. By embracing diverse methodologies and approaches, the school empowers students to push the boundaries of architectural innovation.

As we reflect on the insights shared at FOROS, we are reminded of the transformative power of ideas in shaping the built environment. By embracing ecological responsibility and pushing the boundaries of innovation, we honor the legacy of past masters while charting a course towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and harmonious future.

Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired! 

Register from this link to the conference.

Top image courtesy of UIC Barcelona School of Architecture.

> via UIC Barcelona School of Architecture