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 would like to 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), this symposium seeks to expand and deepen the conversation on the critical role of architecture in fostering sustainability, resilience, and community well-being. The 2025 edition will focus on three key thematic tracks designed to address some of the current challenges and opportunities in regenerative architecture:

• Design and Construction: This track explores the intersection of design and building practices within the realm of regenerative architecture and education. We invite submissions that delve into both innovative and traditional methodologies and tools that foster sustainable building practices. Topics of interest encompass 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. Join us as we examine how these advancements contribute to the evolution of architecture toward a more sustainable and resilient future.

• Urban Harvesting: This track explores the concept of urban harvesting, an approach to reclaiming and repurposing resources within urban settings. Topics range from the challenges of demolition and reclamation to the assessment and application of reclaimed materials, alongside considerations of liability, regulation, insurance, etc. We invite submissions reflecting on projects or methodologies that effectively integrate these elements. Join us as we investigate how local built environments can evolve into self-sustaining ecosystems, significantly reducing their ecological footprint while enriching the quality of life for residents.

• Social Participation: This track explores the human dimension of regenerative architecture, emphasising the crucial role of community engagement and social inclusivity in design processes and education. We invite 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. Join us in exploring how inclusive practices can empower communities and drive positive change in architectural design and construction.

Each of these tracks will provide a platform for in-depth discussions, case studies, and innovative ideas, bringing together, among others, participants from academia, practitioners, students, community members, and activists from all over the world, who are committed to designing, thinking and researching radical forms of reciprocal, regenerating architectures. We invite everyone interested to contribute to the discussion by means of a presentation or by attending the symposium and participating in the discussions that will be organised.

Additionally, two keynote speakers, one from academics and one from architectural practice, who have extensive expertise in this domain will highlight different perspectives on the topics above.

with financial support of