Architects, civil servants, historians and politicians will participate in a University of Kent virtual discussion titled ‘How to rebuild the Houses of Parliament’ on 12 May 7pm (BST).
The event is free and open to all.
Chaired by Henrik Schoenefeldt, Professor of Sustainable Architecture in the Kent School of Architecture and Planning, and author of ‘Rebuilding the Houses of Parliament – David Boswell Reid and Disruptive Environmentalism’ (Routledge 2020), the discussion will examine the evolution of environmental principles underlying the design of the Houses of Parliament, prompting debate on the practicality of its performance and addressing if it remains fit for purpose.
The panel will also highlight and address the current challenges faced by architects and engineers adapting to the realities of climate change.
There will be an audience Q&A after the discussion.
The panellists are: Professor Barry Bergdoll, Columbia University New York and former curator at MoMA, New York; Anna Joynt, Architect and Associate Director of Allies & Morrison; Dr Richard Ware, Restoration and Renewal Sponsor Board; Lord Norton of Louth, Professor of Government at the University of Hull; Professor Dean Hawkes, Emeritus Fellow at Darwin College, University of Cambridge; and Professor Martin Bressani, Director at McGill University’s School of Architecture.
Professor Schoenefeldt said: ‘I am delighted that so many renowned experts in what has become the most prevalent and revolutionary field within architecture – sustainability – will join me for this discussion. Focusing on the Houses of Parliament, a building of such international importance, and its architectural history, helps feed our understanding of our architectural predecessors and how we can ensure sustainability within its structure.’
This virtual event can be booked here.