World Architecture Day 2012 has finally arrived, with London playing host to this year’s industry celebrations.
Held on October 1 each year, World Architecture Day is organised by the International Union of Architects (UIA) in partnership with World Architecture News (WAN). It brings together industry leaders from across the world to celebrate, discuss and debate architecture around the world.
This year’s theme, ‘Architects Are City Changers’ is bringing the focus back to the challenges and possibilities inherent in future urban planning strategies. The theme is an extension of the United Nations ‘Better Cities, Better Lives’ urban planning campaign and will follow in the UN’s footsteps in terms of founding ideologies and focus points throughout the day’s proceedings and discussions.
World Archiecture Day will touch on a number of issues relevant to the modern world, including population density, the importance of collaboation and sustainability, and the significance these factors have when it comes to planning long-lasting, sustainable cities in the near future. The prevalence of technology as an industry tool and a creator of opportunity will serve as another major point of focus.
According to programme director Michael Hammond, World Architecture Day offers a platform for positive industry promotion, not only for developments and practices, but also for the sharing of ideas and innovation.
“World Architecture Day provides an unparalleled opportunity for leaders across the industry to connect, exchange ideas, share best practice and drive innovation,” he says. “The event won’t be in London next year, so this is the perfect chance for the architectural community to come together and start envisaging the future of our cities across the world.”
Keynote speakers Will Alsop and Rafael Viñoly will lead keynote discussions centering on the importance of a holistic industry with a focus on building smarter and maximising the potential of sustainable building, technology and industry collaboration. The discussions will look at issues surrounding urban regeneration, holistic design models for hospitals and educational facilities and the wider commercial market.
This kind of holistic, collaboration focused attitude is in line with the launch of the World Cities Network, which will work towards these same common goals.
