In this conversation we discuss what it means as architects and designers to prioritise holistic sustainability, considering the impact of our proposals both for the people using the spaces we design, alongside the impact on the planet. To reimagine the typology of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), with architectural and philosophical ideas, we're joined by Thomas Krarup (Cobe), Chiara Cozzolino and Vicki Odili (tp bennett). The trio share their thoughts on how to get the best out of opportunities for collaboration - especially in our historic, eclectic and nonhomogenous capital city of London- their interest in the intangible elements facilitated by good design such as community, wellbeing, comfort and happiness and how their robust approach to the future of student accommodation utilises lessons learnt from past projects and students lived experience, alongside building physics, scientific research and the latest in computational design. Key term breakdown: Passivhaus. The Passivhaus standard primarily considers key building physics concepts to reduce in-use operational energy. This must be considered in the whole life cycle with embodied carbon to mitigate climate change and deliver meaningful benefits to students and the wider communities. This sustainability accreditation closely aligns with the people and planet-centric approach of the project(s) spoke about, delivering optimum thermal comfort and air quality through a fabric-first approach. Download the transcript for the conversation here To learn more about the speakers and their work: Head to the tp bennett website here, or by give tp bennet a follow on Linkedin here. Heading to the COBE website here, or by give COBE a follow on Linkedin here and Instagram here. And find out more about speakers Chiara Cozzolino here and Vicki Odili here

One of the London Festival of Architecture's key missions is to platform the work of emerging designers, showcasing the sustainable and forward-thinking design that's happening in universities, collectives, classrooms and small practices across the city. This month, the Festival is back with two installations in Gaggenau's Wigmore Street showroom by designer Titilayo Abiola, who's going to talk you through her inspirations for each of the two pieces. You can find more information and images of the pieces online, or why not head to Gaggenau to see the installations for yourself? For more information about the pieces and details of how long they're on display for, head to lfa.london/gaggenau. Head to the Tilayo website to stay up-to-date on designer Titilayo Abiola's work. To explore the whole LFA2024 programme, head to lfa.london. This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation below. Download the transcript Image: The Dance and Digital Artisans, LFA2024 © Jane Lam Image description: A collage of the two installations in Gaggenau's showroom  

In this episode we explore the chosen theme for the 2024 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA): 'Reimagine'. Ahead of our 20th anniversary year, we're exploring the transformative power of imagination with Jess Neil, CEO of the Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation and one of our LFA2024 Curation Panel members. Together, we explore how we can reimagine the social justice space and empower young voices to shape a better future.   The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation exists to inspire a more equitable, inclusive society and to foster opportunities for marginalised young people in the UK. Find out more on the Foundation's website. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website.   Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Episode image: LFA Curation Panel meeting, September 2023 © Angel Jordan

In this episode of Building Sounds, we'll be exploring how urban farming can convert neglected urban spaces into flourishing vertical farms, reducing food poverty and supporting a more sustainable city.   In conversation with First Sukpaiboon and Dan Bridge, we investigate the transformative nature of vertical farming practices, and explore its role in shaping resilient and eco-friendly cities. A panel discussion and XR installation showcasing the vertical farm-to-form project mentioned in this episode featured as part of our LFA2023 programme. First Sukpaiboon is an architect and entrepreneur who specialises in placemaking and narrative design. She holds a master’s in urban planning and is a creative strategist at spacelab_. First has also conceived a research project funded by the Foundation for Future London, entitled 'Vertical Farming Intervention for Unused Spaces'. Dan Bridge leads the team looking after regeneration in the Royal Docks, alongside a the Mayor of London and the Mayor of Newham. Dan looks after a range of mixed-use development projects that are part of the Mayor of London’s largest land-led regeneration project and a designated Enterprise Zone.   Enjoy this episode? Listen back to our episode on The Factory Project, featuring an interview with Nick Hartwright, founder of Projekt.     This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Image © spacelab_ Image description: An visualisation of First Sukpaiboon's vertical farming project in the Royal Docks   Building Sounds is a podcast by the London Festival of Architecture team.

In this conversation, we're discussing how we can test new ideas for the public realm with temporary built projects, and the role they can play in shaping a more sustainable and equitable city. We're focussing on two installations that formed part of the London Festival of Architecture 2023 programme. The projects mentioned in this episode are in-situ until August. Find out more information on about On Tenterground and Common Ground on the LFA website. For the first conversation we’re joined by Lydia Allain Chapman, who oversees all built projects and competitions at the LFA. We then speak with Marwa El Mubark (Saqqra) and Nasios Varnavas (Urban Radicals), two of the designers behind Common Ground. We close with a conversation with Chāo Gāo, founding director of ciaociao design, whose On Tenterground is currently installed in Aldgate.   URBAN RADICALS is a collaborative studio that designs objects, rooms, architectures and landscapes. The studio started out in 2019 as a duo between architects Era Savvides and Nasios Varnavas, and is now an expansive network between friends, colleagues and expert collaborators, solving design problems across contexts and scales. Ciaociao Design is a design studio focusing on landscape architecture and art installations, founded by Chao Gao in 2020. Ciaociao Design’s ethos is to create sustainable and memorable spaces for everyone. Chao is a chartered Landscape Architect who has over ten years experience. She has successfully designed and delivered many notable UK and international projects. Saqqra is a new collective founded by writers and researchers Marwa El Mubark and Niall Bridgeman. Saqqra is interested in decolonizing and decarbonizing construction industry and just wider conversations around architecture. Both Marwan and Niall also teach at Kingston and UEL.     This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Images: On Tenterground © Luke O'Donovan, Common Ground © Joe Howard @ Bar Productions Image description: A compilation image of Common Ground and On Tenterground, the two LFA projects mentioned in this podcast. The upper image of Common Ground is a close up showing the materiality of the project. The bottom image is a close up of the sails which form part of Tenterground.

As part of LFA2023, the LFA unveiled the winning installations for the third edition of Showroom Showcase. Now in its third year the Showroom Showcase competition sees a series of innovative installations exploring the theme of reuse by emerging architects and designers displayed in some of London’s leading design showrooms - Gaggenau, Ideal Standard and VitrA Bathrooms. In this episode we speak to the designers of the winning installations to hear the stories behind their designs.   To find out more about the project, head to lfa.london/ss. To explore the whole LFA2023 programme, head to lfa.london/LFA2023.   1:38 - TIME by Raphaé Memon and Sikander Pervez for Gaggenau 10:10 - Nebula by Antoniya Stoitsova for VitrA Bathrooms 15:40 - Beauty in the Broken by Isabella Yurtsever for Ideal Standard   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Image: Showroom Showcase Installations, LFA2023 - Kes-tchaas Eccleston Image description: Collage of three images. The first showing a close up of TIME, showing a selection of stacked clocks, showing different times. The second showing a close up of Beauty in the Broken, showing some of the discarded pieces of ceramic hanging from the ceiling. The third showing a close up of Nebula, and the ceramic trapped in the structural form.

As part of LFA2023, the LFA unveiled the winning benches for the third edition of Pews and Perches. The series of benches aims to improve London’s public realm, celebrate emerging architectural talent, and connect people with the buildings and spaces around them. In this episode we speak to the designers of the winning installations to hear the stories behind their designs. To find out more about the project, head to lfa.london/pews. To explore the whole LFA2023 programme, head to lfa.london/LFA2023.   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Image: Pews and Perches Benches, LFA2023 - Luke O'Donovan Image description: Collage of four images. The first showing a close up of the Chit Chat Chair, with the water of the Royal Docks in the background. The second showing FLOAT, with Royal Albert Dock in the background. The third showing a close up of Round the Neighbourhood, with UTC in the background. And fourth showing Together We Hold, amongst the greenery of Lyle Park.   1:37 - Round The Neighbourhood by Nicolos Makatsaria and Jericho Cabalan 5:55 - Chit Chat Chair by Studio Groove 10:23 - Together We Hold by Akmaral Khassen 17:20 - FLOAT by Akasaki Vanhuyse  

In this conversation we’re exploring the London Festival of Architecture 2023 programme ahead of the month-long series of events happening across London, across the month of June. We’re joined by one of the LFA2023 Curation Panel members, Melodie Leung and Gonzalo Herrero Delicado. Melodie Leung is an Associate Director at Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) where she has been a leading designer within the practice for over 15 years overseeing notable projects across architecture, interiors, product design, and exhibitions. Gonzalo Herrero Delicado is a curator, educator and architect based in London whose work is at the intersection of architecture and design, exploring their connection to ecology and digital culture. He is Director of the Ecocity World Summit 2023. He is also a Design Fellow at the University of Cambridge and an Associate Lecturer at Central Saint Martins, UAL. To explore the LFA2023 programme, head to lfa.london/LFA2023. To find out more about Eco City, head to www.ecocity-summit.com/ - The code mentioned in the conversation was 23ECOLON25.   Some of the LFA events mentioned are as followed (in order of appearance): - Fleet Street Plant Press, by Wayward (Holborn Circus) - Connecting Colindale: A Flight Path Folly, by Andre Kong Studio and Wayward (Colindale Park) - Seats at the Table by Re-Fabricate and the DisOrdinary Architecture Project (Postman's Park) - Urban Playground, by McCloy + Muchemwa (Fen Court) - The Never Ending Challenge, by London Borough of Bromley (Crystal Palace Museum) - Vertical Farm-to-Fork at the Factory, by Projekt and Spacelab_ (The Factory) - Cycle tour of new Enfield architecture, by IF_DO (Tottenham Hale Station) - Participatory Urbanism, by Zaha Hadid Architects (Zaha Hadid Architects Gallery)   This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Image: Design Concept for ‘Connecting Colindale: A Flight Path Folly’ by Andre Kong Studio and Wayward Image description: Design concept of the Connecting Colindale installation showing woman sitting on installation, which is covered in greenery, and another group pointing at the installation.  

In this conversation, we explore the theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA)- 'In Common', in the context of two projects, which combine art, science, and history to think about how we create sustainable futures and equitable societies. The projects form part of Sea Change – a season of creative projects in Thames Barrier, Royal Docks (11th – 29th May). For the first conversation we’re joined by Mala Yamey, Kate Liggins and Eleanor Wright to explore Flotilla, a film exploring the relationship of women to the docks, with a connected oral history project led by UCL MA Public History students. For the second conversation we’re joined by Dana Olărescu and Dr Julia Tomei to explore Power In, an installation exploring energy and equity in the Royal Docks. - Mala Yamey works as Assistant Associate Curator with Invisible Dust. - Kate Liggins is an MA Public History student at UCL, with special interest in women's history, and using the medium of audio to encourage public engagement with history. - Eleanor Wright is a Public History MA student at UCL interested in oral history and radio documentary. - Dana Olărescu is a socially engaged artist commissioned by Invisible Dust to create the Power In art installation - Dr Julia Tomei is a social researcher and Associate Professor at the Bartlett School Environment, Energy & Resources, focusing on the human dimensions and governance of energy, natural resources, and land use in Low and Middle-Income Countries. Julia collaborated with Dana on the Power In art installation. To find out more about LFA, the 2023 theme -'In Common', or to explore the LFA2023 programme, head to lfa.london/LFA2023 To find out more about Sea Change, head to royaldocks.london/whats-on/sea-change This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Image:  Melanie Manchot, Flotilla, 2023, Video still, © the artist, courtesy Parafin, London and Galerie m, Bochum Image description: Images of women and boats on Royal Victoria Dock.  

In this conversation, we explore the theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA)- 'In Common', in the context of cities – and how we can create resilient cities for the 21st century. We’re joined by three people from McGregor Coxall: Adrian McGregor, Michael Cowdy and Yazid Ninsalam.

McGregor Coxall is a multi-disciplinary design studio dedicated to assisting cities achieve sustainable prosperity. - Adrian is a landscape architect and biourbanist and is the founder and Chief Design Officer of McGregor Coxall. - Michael is a Director and Landscape Urbanist for McGregor Coxall, based in their Bristol office. - Yazid is an Associate Director at McGregor Coxall, with a focus with Biourbanism.

To find out more about LFA, the 2023 theme -'In Common', or how to get involved in the festival, head to lfa.london/get-involved. Find out more about McGregor Coxall here. Check out the ‘Biourbanism: Cities as Nature’ book here.

This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below:

Download the transcript   Image Credit: McGregor Coxall

In this conversation, we explore the theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA)- 'In Common', in the context of the Design Future London challenge – a design challenge led by the Mayor of London, alongside MOBIE, which aimed to inspire young Londoners to develop an interest in designing beautiful, affordable and sustainable places to live, work and visit. We’re join by Jules Pipe and Natalie Wells from the GLA. As well as three students from UEL, Hussain Akil Sadliwala, Alina Klimenteva and Mohan Ukabhai Dungrani.

• Jules is Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills, working on key priorities for the Mayor.
• Natalie is a Senior Communications and Engagement Officer at the GLA, as well as lead on the challenge.
• Hussain, Alina and Mohan are three of the students from UEL, involved in the challenge in 2022.

  To find out more about LFA, the 2023 theme -'In Common', or how to get involved in the festival, head to lfa.london/get-involved. To find out more about how you can get involved with the challenge, click this link here. To explore the UEL Teams challenge project, click this link here and search for Entry 5.   This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript

In this episode we explore the theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA)- 'In Common', in the context of accessibility, spontaneity and The Architectural Association. We're joined by LFA 2023 Curation Panel member Jordan Whitewood-Neal. Jordan is an architectural researcher, designer and artist whose work focuses on disability, domesticity, cultural infrastructure and the tension between accessibility and retrofitting. He is also Co-founder of the disability centered, research collective, Dis. To find out more about LFA, the 2023 theme -'In Common', or how to get involved in the festival, head to the LFA website and click on 2023 Festival in the menu. To find out more or catch up on the event series mentioned at the AA head to this youtube link.    This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript

How can we harness culture and community power as tools for connection across a borough? Barnet is one of London's largest boroughs, but existing public transport links can make cross-borough connection difficult. Join Sophie Roberts (LFA Senior Programme Manager), Synthia Griffin (Arts and Culture Manager, London Borough of Barnet) and Becky Lyon (Barnet-based Artist and Researcher) to discuss how the council has been harnessing arts and culture initiatives to improve east-west connectivity and build a unified cultural identity. From empowering local creatives with micro grants to fostering consortium working and innovative partnerships, this episode explore's the borough's journey to becoming a cultural hub. To find out more about the London Festival of Architecture in Barnet, head to lfa.london/barnet. You can find out more about Barnet Council here and Becky Lyon's work here. To explore the whole LFA2024 programme, head to lfa.london. This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation below. Download the transcript Timestamps 01:50 Introduction to Synthia and culture in Barnet 05:39 Introduction to Becky and Barnet art scene 07:25 Importance of widening access to arts 09:23 Collaboration with community groups 19:49 Testing ideas in the public realm 31:55 Aspirations and next steps Image: Copthall Pavilion, LFA2024 © Luke O'Donovan Image description: Three children writing on a dark pavilion wall their ideas about the future of the space

In this episode we explore the Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC) – The Richard Desmond Life Without Limits Centre, in the context of the chosen theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA)- 'In Common'. We're joined by Joe Wheeler, Associate at EPR Architects and Shalni Sood, Director of Philanthropy at RSBC. To find out more about LFA, the 2023 theme -'In Common', or how to get involved in the festival, head to the LFA website and click on 2023 Festival in the menu.   This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Episode image: Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC) – The Richard Desmond Life Without Limits Centre - Lounge ©Gareth Gardner

In this episode we explore the chosen theme for 2023 edition of the London Festival of Architecture (LFA): 'In Common'. We're joined by Rosa Rogina, Director of the LFA, and Binki Taylor, partner in participatory place-making organisation, The Brixton Project and one of our LFA2023 Curation Panel members. To find out more about the LFA2023 or how to get involved in the festival, head to the LFA website and click on 2023 Festival in the menu.   This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   Episode image: Somers Town Acts, London Festival of Architecture 2022 © Luke O'Donovan

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. For our final episode, we explore the Royal Docks through the eyes of the next generation, with four students from London Design & Engineering UTC: Mahia Akther, Tianna Osho, Kev Grieff and Jericho Cabalan. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. For our fifth episode, we explore The Factory Project and Community Food Enterprise, with Nick Hartwright and Eric Samuel MBE. Nick is the founder of Projekt. Projekt is an affordable work and event space developer, who currently operates 14 sites across London for cultural and creative communities, with an aim to change the way in which developers and landowners approach commercial and residential spaces in the built environment throughout the UK and Europe. Eric is CEO Community Food Enterprise (CFE), a social enterprise food business which established in 2002 to alleviate food poverty. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. For our fourth episode, we explore Tate & Lyle and the unexpected future of sugar in the Royal Docks, with Chris Abell, Alan Chandler and Armor Gutierrez Rivas. Chris is Head of Property and Local Affairs, Tate & Lyle Sugars. Alan is the Dean of Research at the University of East London, his 25 year’s experience in teaching architecture has a particular emphasis on live projects and public engagement which stems from his practice as a Specialist Conservation Architect involved in the nature of heritage and the role of materials in creating significance through use. Armor is an architect, researcher and maker, interested in how sustainable innovation can have a positive impact in our built environment. Armor is a Senior Lecture at the University of East London, where he teaches MArch studio Unit 8 and is an Associate of the Sustainability Research Institute where he works on developing innovative construction materials using agricultural by-products. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. For our third episode, we explore Kamal Chunchie Way and the act of renaming, with Sophie Hardcastle and Asif Shakoor. Sophie is Head of Engagement at Street Space. Street Space work with people to reimagine their streets & spaces to make them feel safer, bring joy & social connection. Asif is an independent scholar. He studied at University of East London. His grandfather, Mahomed Gama, enlisted in the Mercantile Marine and arrived at the Royal Victoria Dock in 1917. He has presented research at national conferences and local events. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. For our second episode, we're exploring City Hall with Dan Bridge and Andrea Nolan. Dan is Programme Director for the Royal Docks Team, and leads the team for delivering the regeneration of the Royal Docks, the Mayor of London’s largest land-led regeneration project and a designated Enterprise Zone. Andrea was the GLA’s Project Architect on The New City Hall refurbishment. She has been working at Hackney-based studio Architecture00 since 2017. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA2022 we're sharing five new stories, exploring the key people and projects shaping the Royal Docks. In our first episode, Marieta Borreda Cuenca gives us an introduction to the history of the Royal Docks. Marieta is a Sports and History presenter, journalist and content creator who has worked in Heritage projects for London’s Royal Docks, the Thames Festival, Newham's Heritage Month and The Royal Docks History Club. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA 2022, the LFA unveiled the winning installations for the second edition of Showroom Showcase. Now in its second year, this series of installations see a series of innovative paper installations, by emerging architects and designers, displayed in some of London’s leading design showrooms. In this episode we speak to the designers of the winning installations to hear the stories behind their designs. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

As part of LFA 2022, the LFA unveiled the winning benches for the third edition of Pews and Perches. The series of fives benches aims to improve London’s public realm, celebrate emerging architectural talent, and connect people with the buildings and spaces around them. In this episode we speak to the designers of the winning benches to hear the stories behind their designs. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript

Now in it's fifth and final edition, the London Festival of Architecture's Pews and Perches design competition has delivered 6 new bespoke public benches scattered around the Royal Docks. The competition called for architecture and design students, recent graduates and emerging practitioners to deliver bench proposals that explore creative ways to use and reuse materials and take inspiration from the Royal Docks, its proximity to the water and the communities who live there. To find out more about the project, head to lfa.london/pews. To explore the whole LFA2024 programme, head to lfa.london. This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation below. Download the transcript Timestamps: 02:06: From Trash to Treasure, UEL 11:10: Now is The Time to Moor Off 17:30: The Flow Bench 27:00: On the Cobbles 33:02: 66C02 38:51: Submarine Cables Image: Pews and Perches, LFA2024 © Luke O'Donovan Image description: A collage of 6 benches in-situ in the Royal Docks.  

We each have a unique relationship to London that depends on where we live, work and play. In this episode, we explore how our relationship to the city - from the chaotic to the classic - is shaped by photography and design, and the importance of collaboration across communities. Host Eliza is joined by Damla Turgut (Founder, Otto Tiles) and Gareth Gardner (Photographer and Gallerist) to talk all things photography and design, and how the practices both mirror and mould our relationship to the built environment. Otto Tiles and Gareth Gardner Gallery are collaborating on a series of workshops and exhibitions taking place in June, during the London Festival of Architecture. Head to the LFA website to sign up or find out more. To explore Damla's work and browse products, you can visit the Otto Tiles website. And for more information on Gareth Gardner's Deptford Gallery and ongoing exhibitions, head to the site now.   This episode was edited and produced by Katya Spiers. You can download the transcript here. Image © Gareth Gardner     Timestamps for this episode: 0:09 - relationship to design, photography and collaboration 07:08 - evolution of design trends across industries 16:24 - shared perspectives and the importance of dialogues 27:50 - exciting opportunities to get involved

This month, we're joined by Elliott Wood Director Andy Downey and Make Architects Founder Ken Shuttleworth to explore Fitzrovia's unique history as a hub for architects, engineers and designers. From the iconic BT Tower to the hidden cobbled lanes, join host Eliza Grosvenor to learn about the area's workshop origins, and investigate the unique collaborative atmosphere that's constantly innovating Fitzrovia. Ken and Andy offer insights into their roles in reshaping this area while balancing the urgency of sustainable development and fostering the essence of community that makes Fitzrovia buzz with creativity. To download the ETHICS Manifesto and find out more about Elliott Wood, head to their website. To learn about Make Architects and explore current projects, keep up online. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website here. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org or call 020 7636 4044. This episode was edited and produced by Katya Spiers. You can download the transcript here. Image: Great Titchfield Street Party © LFA and Woods Bagot Timestamps for this episode: 00:09 - Introductions and quick-fire questions 12:36 - Collaboration and community in Fitzrovia 18:20 - Urban development and design 24:08 - Sustainable urban planning and design

When we talk about public spaces, we often throw around the word 'placemaking' without considering what the term really means. In this conversation, host Eliza Grosvenor is joined by Ruchi Chakravarty (Urban Designer, Masterplanner, Architect and Placemaker) and Federico Ortiz (Head of Content, NLA) to talk all things placemaking, and unpack the meaning of the word. To stay up-to-date with Ruchi's projects, you can follow her on LinkedIn. To keep in the loop with all upcoming NLA events and research, head to the website. You can download the New London Agenda here, and contribute to our Public London research here. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website here. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org or call 020 7636 4044. This episode was edited and produced by Katya Spiers. You can download the transcript here. Timestamps for this episode: 1:03 Ruchi's relationship with the built environment 2:50 Quick-fire questions 4:20 Unpacking LFA theme 'Reimagine' 5:50 Defining 'placemaking' 11:01 Gillet Square, Dalston 15:30 Meanwhile projects and Harrow Road 18:37 Challenges of placemaking 21:45 Key pillars of placemaking 25:14 The New London Agenda with Federico 27:49 How to use the Agenda and upcoming NLA Research 32:34 Public London 33:57 What does the future of placemaking look like? 37:21 A challenge to LFA organisers 39:53 What would you reimagine?  

When the Festival was founded in 2004, Peter Murray had no idea of the legacy that the London Festival of Architecture would go on to have. In this episode, Building Sounds host Eliza Grosvenor sits down with two key people from the Festival's history to talk all things impact, 20th-anniversary, and uncover some intriguing stories from the early days. Eliza is joined by Peter Murray OBE (Co-Founder, NLA and Founder, LFA) and Moira Lascelles (Executive Director and Head of Partnerships, UP Projects) to explore the LFA2024 theme of 'reimagine' and to explore the role that an architecture festival can play in shaping the city. From jelly building to sheep herding, Peter and Moira dive into some of the iconic projects that have shaped the LFA over the past 20 years. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website here. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org or call 020 7636 4044.   Timestamps for this episode: 01:30 Introductions 02:25 Quick-fire questions 04:45 Thoughts on 'Reimagine' 08:50 The beginnings of the LFA, or 'Clerkenwell Architecture Biennale' 14:55 Millennium Bridge Sheep Drive 16:25 Early days with NLA 19:35 Stand-out projects from the Festival's history 23:30 Importance of supporting emerging designers, students and international practices 25:48 Challenges over the years 28:59 Advice for LFA2024 organisers 30:47 Closing questions   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript here

With shifting priorities post-pandemic and the transition to hybrid working, office occupancy is at an all-time low. What does the future of work look like, and how can we 'reimagine' workspaces that reflect our changing needs and minimise our impact on the planet? In this episode, we are joined by Gerhild Orthacker (Associate Director, Zaha Hadid Architects) and Uli Blum (Senior Associate, Zaha Hadid Architects) to explore the LFA2024 theme of 'reimagine' and to share with us the way that working patterns are shifting, and what the practice is doing to provide a workspace that meets the needs of their workforce. The Alis Meeting Pod, mentioned in the conversation, is on display at Zaha Hadid Architects London Gallery until January 2024. More information on the practice, visiting, and Gerhild and Uli's work can be found on the ZHA website here. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website here. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org or call 020 7636 4044.   Thanks to Zaha Hadid Architects for hosting Building Sounds for this recording. Timestamps for this episode: 00:00 Introductions 02:04 Quick-fire questions 04:41 Intro to Alis Meeting Pods 07:52 Multi-functional design and adapting for the future 10:04 Working internationally and changes to ways of working post-pandemic 14:22 Lessons learnt and the future of workplace design 17:30 Working with clients and external projects 20:33 The role of AI in the design process 26:28 Final comments and where to find out more   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript here   Episode image: Luke Hayes

What if the built environment was designed with inclusion in mind, taking into account diverse access needs? In this episode of Building Sounds, we speak with some of the individuals who are actively working towards transforming this vision into a reality - Jos Boys, Poppy Levison (DisOrdinary Architecture Project), and Roseanne Scott (Re-Fabricate). We explore the legacy of Seats at the Table, one of the key built projects from LFA2023 consisting of a series of accessible seating and public realm interventions in the City of London by Re-Fabricate and the DisOrdinary Architecture Project, as well as the brilliant work that has followed the project. More information on Re-Fabricate can be found on their website, and for the DisOrdinary Architecture Project, you can learn more using this link. The launch of the mentioned 'Many more Parts than M!' compendium will take place on Tuesday 23rd Manchester at Manchester School of Architecture and on Thursday 8th February in London at the RIBA. Head to the team's websites for more information. To find out more about #LFAat20 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org. Finally, a big shout out to RSBC's Life Without Limits Centre for hosting us for this conversation, to listen to our conversation with the charity and EPR Architects about the centre, you can do so here.   Timestamps for this episode: 00:10 - Introductions and quick-fire round 07:05 - Seats at the Table project overview and design process 15:30 - Learnings from the project 20:50 - What's been happening post June 26:30 - 'Many more Parts than M!' compendium 28:59 - Changes needed in the industry and design 31:27 - What is Spoon Theory? 35:00 - The importance of accessible design for all 39:42 - Challenges for LFA2024 organisers 46:30 - One thing that the team would like to 'reimagine' 56:20 - Social media links and closing comments   This episode was produced and edited by Katya Spiers. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript   If you'd like to listen to our podcast on the RSBC's Life Without Limits Centre, you can do so here.   Episode image: Seats at the Table intervention in Postman's Park © Luke O'Donovan

Here East, w/David Bickle (Hawkins Brown) and Gavin Poole (Here East) In this episode we explore the birth of Here East, the process of transforming an Olympic and Press Centre into an innovation and technology campus, the ten year anniversary of the Olympic games and what the next ten years hold for the campus. Here East is situated in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London. This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

As part of LFA2021, The LFA, Cheapside Business Alliance and Aldgate Connect BID have unveiled the nine benches selected as the winners of the 2021 City Benches competition. Now in its fourth year, this series of nine temporary benches aims to brighten the streetscape across Cheapside and Aldgate, celebrate emerging architectural talent and connect people with the buildings and spaces around them. Following on from our previous episode, in this episode we’ll be exploring the collection of benches brightening the streetscape across Aldgate.

1. NVBL with Webb Yates, The Stone Carving Company and The Stone Masonry Company Conversation: 1.09
2. The Mad Hatters A Cuppa: 6.26
3. Sohanna Srinivasan in collaboration with Joyce and Joyce Joinery Monuments to Mingling: 10.55
4. Lisa McDanell Studio Plant Yourself Here:17.15

This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

As part of LFA2021, The LFA, Cheapside Business Alliance and Aldgate Connect BID have unveiled the nine benches selected as the winners of the 2021 City Benches competition. Now in its fourth year, this series of nine temporary benches aims to brighten the streetscape across Cheapside and Aldgate, celebrate emerging architectural talent and connect people with the buildings and spaces around them. In this episode we’ll be exploring the collection of benches brightening the streetscape across Cheapside.

1. 10F It Takes Two: 1.10
2. Nick Green Do you care about your city?: 8.04
3. Ex Architectures with Flu-or Arquitectura Quick getaway: 13.28
4. Jelly Collaborative The Friendly Blob: 18.22
5. Pebble Haus Sobremesa: 24.05

This episode was produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

In this episode we discover the story and design of London Bridge Station, one of the oldest and busiest stations in London. We caught up with Nadia Broccardo, Chief Executive for Team London Bridge, and Mark Middleton, Group Managing Partner for Grimshaw Architects to understand more about this unique and fundamental building. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

As part of LFA2020, the LFA and Royal Docks Team have unveiled five new benches across the Royal Docks as part of the Pews and Perches design competition. The competition, now in its second year, invited architecture and design students, recent graduates and emerging practitioners to deliver a playful new take on street furniture that can celebrate the Royal Docks and the communities at home in the area – a series of conversation starters to re-connect everyone with nature and the docks’ built environment. In this episode we spoke to the designers of the winning benches to hear the stories behind their designs. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

As part of LFA2020, the LFA and Network Rail have unveiled a series of witty and challenging benches by emerging architects and designers at some of London’s largest railway stations. The series follows a design competition launched earlier this year and is the latest in our series of public installations that harness and celebrate emerging architectural and design talent, while improving London’s shared spaces and connecting people with new architecture and the buildings around them. In this episode we spoke to the designers of the winning benches to hear the stories behind their designs. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.

The Canary Wharf Jubilee Line Station, designed by Foster+Partners, was opened in 1999 and was fundamental in transforming the fortunes of Canary Wharf. It remains both the largest single-line station on the network, and perhaps the most architecturally spectacular. Gerard Evenden, Senior Executive Partner at Foster + Partners, led on the project for the practice in the 1990s. Here he tells us the story of this iconic station. This episode was recorded in 2019 as part of our Canary Wharf Architecture Audio Guide. You can find the full guide at lfa.london Download the transcript here.

LFA2020: The Tooley Street Triangle As part of LFA2020, The LFA and Team London Bridge have unveiled The Tooley Street Triangle – a new wayfinding beacon designed by Charles Holland Architects outside London Bridge Station. In this episode, Charles Holland talks us through the design and how it fits into the wider concept of wayfinding. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor. Download the transcript here.  

Royal Docks: Pews and Perches In late 2019, the London Festival of Architecture ran a competition for emerging architects to design a bench, which could offer a fun and creative place to sit, rest and play along the Royal Docks waterfront. In this episode will are sharing some of the conversations we had with the designers of the winning benches. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.  

Royal Docks: Patera Building In this episode, we hear from Shaun Lees, Managing Director of Patera Engineering, who tells us about the Patera Building by Hopkins and Partners. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.

Royal Docks: Thames Barrier and KGV Flood Gate In this episode, we hear from Sam Nicholson and Laura Littleton, from the Environmental Agency, who tells us about the Thames Barrier and KGV Flood gate. Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.

Royal Docks: Tidal Basin Pumping Station In this episode, we hear from Mike Davies, from RSH+P, who tell us about the Tidal Basin Pumping Station and how it fits into the wider Docks Master Plan.  Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.

Royal Docks Impounding Station In this episode, we hear from Scott Derben, Managing Director of the Royal Docks Management Authority, who tells us about the Royal Docks Impounding Station, its past, present and future.  Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.

Millennium Mills In this episode, we hear from Graham Stark from Lendlease, and James Santer from AHMM who tell us about the Millennium Mills Buildings, its past and its future.  Produced and edited by Eliza Grosvenor.

London’s Docklands were once our gateway to the world. Originally built between the 1850s and 1920s the Royal Docks fuelled our international trade and brought wealth to the country. But as ships grew bigger, much of this ocean-going trade moved to larger docks further East along the Thames, and air travel developed to the West at Heathrow. Whilst much of the transport infrastructure might have moved, what has been left is a stunning legacy of industrial architecture, as well as huge opportunities for the architects of today. The Royal Docks is once again undergoing a rapid period of change with a wide range of new building in the design, planning and construction phases. For the next season of our Buildings Sounds audio guide we’re bringing you five episodes on some of the most historically significant buildings in the Royal Docks including Millennium Mills, the Royal Victoria Dock Pumping Station, The Thames Barrier and the KGV flood gate, The Patera Building on Albert Island, and the Royal Docks Impounding Station These episodes will be realised over the coming weeks. You can find out more about these buildings by visiting lfa.london/powerpodcasts Whilst you’re in the Royal Docks, you might like to know that for last year’s LFA we ran a competition – called Pews and Perches - for emerging architects and designers to create a series of unique benches around the dock. For many of these emerging architects and designers this was their first proper commission – their six benches superbly demonstrate the imagination and creativity of our next generation of architects. And that architects can work at any scale. Many of these benches are still in place. You can find out where they are and hear from the architects themselves by visiting lfa.london/pews And finally, to find out more about our collaboration with the Royal Docks team and their work visit londonfestivalofarchitecture.org. We hope you enjoy this series of podcast from the Royal Docks.

Welcome to Buildings Sounds – the architecture audio guide from the London Festival of Architecture The great joy of radio and podcasts is that you can do other stuff whilst your listening. The concept behind building sounds is simple, you enjoy a nice walk around an architecturally significant area whilst the architects who have designed or worked on the buildings tell you more about what you’re looking at, along with some of the stories behind the buildings. Building Sounds is part podcast, part walking tour and part museum audio guide. The LFA has two podcast feeds. In our original podcast Architecture Masters, we speak to the leading lights of the profession who are all quietly shaping our building and cities. In Architecture Masters we’re interested in the people behind the buildings – the stories behind their practices, what inspires them, how did they become architects and what’s led to their success. Buildings Sounds is more about the product of their work – a way to find out about the buildings they create. Everyone has their own tastes and preferences when it comes to buildings. We’re not trying to tell you which buildings you should or shouldn’t like – but merely to share some of the fascinating stories behind the buildings, that far too often go untold. Most museum audio guides give you the opinions of curators or critics giving you their perspective on the art for in question. We could have done something similar. But rather than giving you a critic offering their perspective – one step removed – we thought it nicer to hear from the architects themselves. If you know the building in question, then these podcasts might make sense in isolation, but we really think they’ll be enjoyed more as you walk around the area. In each season we’ll bring you a number of episodes from around a particular part of London You can find out more by visiting lfa.london/buidlingsounds

Architecture is not only about creation; it’s about listening, amplifying, and intertwining the voices that make up our spaces, stories, and neighbourhoods. In this conversation Rosa Rogina and Dhruv Gulabchande explore the chosen theme for the London Festival of Architecture (LFA) 2025: 'Voices'. During the conversation, the two discuss mentorship, urban narratives, and taking action through engagement, as well as unpack the relationship of people's stories and the importance of listening to and amplifying a diverse range of voices in the built environment which sits at the core of LFA. About the speakers: Rosa Rogina is the Director of London Festival of Architecture, leading on the strategic development of the Festival, LFA competitions and wider consultancy work. In parallel, Rosa also teaches architecture at the University of East London. Previously, she has co-curated the Montenegro Pavilion at the 2018 Venice Biennale and was curator in residence at Vienna Design Week 2020. Alongside his role as LFA2025 Curation Panel member, Dhruv Gulabchande is an Architect and Associate Director at HFM Architects, currently teaching at Central Saint Martins, with previous roles at the University of Sheffield, and Brighton. He leads non-profit mentoring platform, Narrative Practice, where his research focuses on promoting diversity through integrating long-term mentoring into practice and academia. In recognition of his work, he has recently been selected as a RIBAJ Rising Star. Narrative Practice is an architectural mentoring and research platform that aims to improve diversity and representation within the profession. To learn more about Narrative Practice, you can use the link here.   To find out more about LFA2025 or how to get involved in the Festival, head to the LFA website here. Have a question for the podcast? Email info@londonfestivalofarchitecture.org here. This episode was edited by Luke Chapman. You can find a transcript of the conversation using the link below: Download the transcript here.   Episode image: Narrative Practice x Wilkinson Eyre (c) James Budgen

In this conversation we discuss what it means to transform an monumental building like the OWO - the Old War Office - and the voices that contribute to the past, present and future of the space. To unpack the OWO, we're joined by David Scowcroft (Project Director) and Charlotte Partridge (Associate Director) from EPR Architects - one of the key partners for the LFA. During the conversation David and Charlotte explore the process of undertaking a transformation like this, the people involved, and the hidden stories that have arisen through their journey with the project. Download the transcript for the conversation here To learn more about the speakers and their work: Head to the EPR website here, or by give EPR a follow on Linkedin here. If the conversation has got you inspired to be part of LFA2025, find out how you can get involved in LFA2025 here.