How much diversity is there in our built environment? Our colleague Sarah posed this question in her presentation at this year's Women in Architecture Festival and gave a clear answer: not enough. But that can be changed. Not tomorrow. Not sometime. But now.
In her lecture, Sarah linked personal experiences with social realities and impressively showed how architecture shapes our coexistence and why female and diverse perspectives are needed more than ever to create places that work for everyone.
Using examples, she showed that planning is not neutral. Whether in school construction, urban development or everyday life - it depends on whose needs are taken into account and who is allowed to help shape them. Educational spaces in particular are exemplary of architecture that can and must do more than just be functional. It should strengthen, protect and connect. And at the same time reflect life in all its diversity.
Sarah's appeal to us all: we don't need perfect solutions, but the courage to take responsibility. Because change doesn't start with regulations or master plans. It starts in our own environment. In our projects. In our teams. In every decision we consciously make - or not.
Christin Noack moderated the evening and then opened the floor for discussion. In the Open Lab, participants were able to contribute their own experiences and ideas, from accessibility and gender equality to issues of social participation. The dialogue showed that there is a great desire for change. Now it's all about implementation.
More about WIA Festival Also in June: Day of ArchitectureThank you for a full, entertaining and captivating lecture that was so ingeniously structured and conveyed in such a human way that it hopefully touched and inspired everyone in some way.