Leading architects and thinkers on building sustainably for people and planet.
Delivered in partnership with VitrA Bathrooms.
For the third 2026 RIBA and VitrA architecture talk, the series is coming to Oxford to welcome leading architects, practitioners and activists who are translating bold ideas and values into action to shape more sustainable and regenerative urban futures.
The panel features experts from Hopkins Architects, Waugh Thistleton, Make Architects, and CIVIC SQUARE, sharing projects ranging cultural landmarks and workplaces to innovation hubs and neighbourhood‑scale civic infrastructure. You’ll learn about leading low‑carbon materials research, and the vision behind the new Schwarzman Centre whilst experiencing the building first hand. You’ll also discover how architects are balancing environmental factors with specialist building requirements, and learn about radical community-powered approaches to sustainability and stewardship.
Together, the speakers will reflect on why prioritising the health of people and planet matters more than ever, and consider what’s next for climate‑led architecture and placemaking.
Who this event is for
This event for anyone interested in architecture, cities, climate-led design, and the future of our planet. It forms part of RIBA’s public programmes, bringing conversations about architecture and the built environment to all.
Event format
Each speaker will give a short presentation sharing projects and perspectives. Then, they’ll come together in a chaired conversation to further explore shared themes, questions and ideas. You’ll then have the chance to ask questions during an audience Q&A session. After this, stay for a drink and further conversation in the Schwarzman Centre Foyer Bar.
The Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities is a landmark new cultural and academic hub in Oxford. Designed by Hopkins Architects – featuring in the panel – the Centre is certified as England’s largest Passivhaus scheme and home to the world’s first Passivhaus concert hall. Open to the public in April 2026, the Centre sets new standards for environmental responsibility of cultural buildings, while providing a vital long-term home for the arts, learning, and public engagement with the humanities.
