TOMORROW.BUILDING

Barcelona will be the World Capital of Architecture in 2026. Over the course of ten months, and through activities held across the city’s ten districts, a diverse, open, and participatory program will bring architecture, urban planning, and landscape design closer to all citizens. This session aims to show how these disciplines improve everyday life and can help address global challenges through first-hand insights from leading experts.

How do we advance urban regeneration to create green and thriving neighbourhoods? This session will explore practical strategies for uniting finance, public action, and community voices to shape vibrant, sustainable places for all. Hear insights from industry leaders on innovative financing and partnership models, and learn from city officials about successful land revitalisation projects and how they engaged students in the design process.

In what ways is technology driving innovation in urban design practices? How are digital tools shaping the design process for buildings, infrastructures, and cities?

As cities face complex social, ecological and technological challenges, architects and urban designers are rethinking how data can shape the way we design, plan and manage urban life. This session will discuss how data-driven approaches can inform real urban policies and spatial design, bridging analysis, participation and innovation.

Technology is revolutionizing urban design, blending AI, virtual reality, and immersive tools to redefine how buildings, infrastructure, and cities are created. Explore how digital innovation is transforming design processes, enabling smarter, more efficient, and visionary urban spaces. What new possibilities are emerging at the intersection of design and technology?

How can cities integrate climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and smart infrastructure for long-term resilience? What role do technology and community engagement play in sustainable urban growth?

SAUR presents BlueSphere, its new global model for sustainable, resilient, and intelligent water management of the future. The initiative connects digitalization, efficiency, equity, and transparency to create and share value with communities. Through AI, Smart Asset Management, and real-time governance, SAUR enhances resilient infrastructure, performance, and sustainability. With projects like Emalsa, Vannes, and a new contract in Doha, SAUR reinforces its ambition to lead the global water transition toward a resilient, circular future.

Integrating climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, and smart infrastructure is essential for building resilient cities. Combining technology with community engagement drives sustainable urban growth and adaptive architecture. How can these strategies come together to create cities that not only survive but thrive amid future challenges?

The world is changing fast. Generational shifts, AI and new tech are redefining life and work - with cities as living labs of innovation. In her light-hearted yet insightful style, futurist Nikki Greenberg reveals what 2050 could look like, sharing global examples of tech transforming cities. Expect energy, vision and strategies to build future-ready, human-centered and inspiring places.

Next-generation technologies are reshaping how we design, build, and live in our cities. From digital tools and AI to virtual reality and advanced construction methods, emerging innovations are revolutionizing urban planning and development. How do these technologies offer new pathways to create more efficient, building-adaptive, and future-ready urban environments?

How can cities reinvent the way they are designed, built, and lived in? From rethinking infrastructures and housing to driving sustainable building practices and resilient planning, innovation is reshaping the fabric of urban life. This session will spotlight new and innovative approaches that are transforming construction and development, unlocking smarter, greener and more adaptable cities for the future.