We live in a world of finite resources, where everything is interconnected. The natural environment, the built environment and its inhabitants are engaged in a constant reciprocal exchange—how we shape our surroundings influences how they shape us in return. 

Architecture and Engineering play a crucial role in this relationship, acting as a bridge between humans and the planet. At its best, they  have the potential to create mutual, supportive bonds that sustain our communities while also nurturing the natural world around us. 

An architecture built on reciprocity and regeneration focuses on creating a balance where the natural, the built, and the multiple species inhabiting them benefit from one another. It also considers the life cycle of materials—how they are taken from the Earth, used, and ultimately returned to the environment in a responsible way that continues to support life. By embracing this approach, architecture can help us thrive in the interconnected world we all share.

In the successful second edition of the BBB Symposium 2022, we reflected with more than 100 participants from over 20 countries on the agency of architecture for regenerative and distributive solutions in the Global North and the Global South . You can find the outcome of these reflections here. In the third edition of the symposium, we have set up a broad conversation and take the reflection one step further, discussing the Potential of Regenerative Architecture and Educational Practices to Generate Positive Impact.

Expanding on the successes of the 2023-24 edition of the postgraduate certificate Building Beyond Borders (you can explore details here), the 2025 symposium sought to expand and deepen the conversation on the critical role of architecture in fostering sustainability, resilience, and community well-being. It focused on three key thematic tracks designed to address some of the current challenges and opportunities in regenerative architecture:

• Design and Construction: This track explored the intersection of design and building practices within the realm of regenerative architecture and education. We invited submissions that delve into both innovative and traditional methodologies and tools that foster sustainable building practices. Topics of interest encompassed the use of bio- and geo-based materials, as well as the integration of reused and upcycled materials, all aimed at generating positive environmental and social impact. 

• Urban Harvesting: This track explored the concept of urban harvesting, an approach to reclaiming and repurposing resources within urban settings. Topics ranged from the challenges of demolition and reclamation to the assessment and application of reclaimed materials, alongside considerations of liability, regulation, insurance, etc. We invited submissions reflecting on projects or methodologies that effectively integrate these elements. 

• Social Participation: This track explored the human dimension of regenerative architecture, emphasising the crucial role of community engagement and social inclusivity in design processes and education. We invited submissions that investigate case studies and strategies aimed at fostering meaningful participation from diverse stakeholders, catalysing lasting social impact, and cultivating more inclusive and sustainable built environments. 

We invited academics, practitioners, students, NGO’s, community members, …from all over the world to contribute to this conversation, through an active contribution by means of a presentation or lecture or by attending the symposium and participating in the discussions that were be organized.

Two keynote speakers, MSc. Michael Smith-Masis, Architect (Entre nos Atelier Central, Costa Rica) and Prof. D. Sc. (Arch.) Satu Huuhka (Tamere University, Finland), who have extensive expertise in this domain have highlighted different perspectives on the topic of the potential of regenerative architecture and educational practices. 

more info about the keynote speakers, the programme and the scientific committee

This Symposium is organized with financial support of