The design world is evolving, with sustainability taking center stage. At the heart of this movement is Human/Nature, AZURE’s inaugural conference on climate action through design, happening on October 24-25, 2024, in Toronto. Bringing together experts from various design disciplines, the conference promises a deep dive into how design can shape a greener future. From insightful keynotes to hands-on workshops, Human/Nature is set to inspire professionals in architecture and design. Learn more here.
A Gathering of Visionary Speakers
The Human/Nature conference will showcase an exceptional lineup of thought leaders and innovators in sustainable design. On Day 1, the stage will host Julia Watson, the creator of LO–TEK, a design philosophy that revives Indigenous wisdom. Her approach to integrating traditional ecological knowledge with modern practices has been a game-changer. Joining her is Susan Carruth, a partner at Copenhagen’s 3XN, known for leading environmentally conscious architecture projects such as Toronto’s T3 Bayside, a stunning timber office tower.
Day 2 promises equally powerful presentations, including Kongjian Yu, founder of Turenscape, a Beijing-based regenerative landscape firm, and Tommaso Bitossi of Transsolar, a climate engineering company involved in prestigious projects worldwide. These keynotes will explore everything from ancient design methods to cutting-edge climate engineering solutions.
Engaging Panels on Climate Action
Beyond the keynotes, Human/Nature offers a series of plenary panels, each tackling essential topics in sustainable design. One of the highlights is Indigenous Urban Futures, where Alfred Waugh will discuss the redevelopment of the Jericho Lands in Vancouver, a project centered on Indigenous knowledge. This panel will highlight how modern urban design can collaborate with Indigenous communities to create forward-thinking, sustainable urban landscapes.
Another must-attend session is Forecast for Hotter Cities, which will focus on strategies to combat rising urban temperatures. Panelists like Dorsa Jalalian of DIALOG will explore social, political, and design-based solutions. The Circular Design for a Circular Economy panel will examine ways to reduce waste in manufacturing, while The Green Public Realm will feature innovative outdoor projects that bring green spaces into urban environments.
Immersive Workshops for Practical Learning
For those looking to go beyond theory, Human/Nature will also feature 12 in-depth workshops. These sessions will dive into real-world design problems and explore tangible solutions. One workshop led by SmartDensity’s Naama Blonder will focus on scaling up affordable housing. Another, led by experts from Henning Larsen and SLA, will cover the master-planning process for Toronto’s Downsview Framework Plan, offering a glimpse into how major urban projects can integrate sustainability from the ground up.
Other workshops will address critical issues like reducing a project’s carbon footprint and constructing spaces that promote health and well-being. With this diverse range of topics, attendees will leave with actionable insights and tools to apply in their own projects.
Networking, Installations, and More
Human/Nature isn’t just about learning—it’s also about building connections and experiencing new ideas firsthand. Throughout the two-day event, attendees can take part in networking lunches, cocktail evenings, and visits to some of Toronto’s latest waterfront developments. These immersive installations and field trips will provide real-world examples of sustainable design in action.
With such a comprehensive lineup of speakers, panels, and workshops, Human/Nature is shaping up to be a must-attend event for anyone in the architecture and design industries. It’s more than a conference; it’s a platform for collaboration, innovation, and actionable solutions for tackling the climate crisis through design.
Conclusion: A Must-Attend Event for Designers Focused on Sustainability
Whether you’re an architect, urban planner, or designer, Human/Nature offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from global leaders in climate-conscious design. With tickets available now, it’s time to join the movement and explore how your work can contribute to a more sustainable future. If you want to gain cutting-edge insights and be part of a community driving change, Human/Nature is the place to be this October. Register here.
