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Talks and lectures

JEDI Talk - The Human Cost of Architecture Part 1: Practice and processes

In the Human Cost of Architecture talks, we’ll be hearing from a variety of viewpoints and experiences ranging from students and architects, small practices and large, from across the UK. They will take place in 2 parts. Part 1: Practice and processes; and Part 2: Our built works

The J.E.D.I. talks (Just Equality Diversity Inclusion) are hosted by the RIBA North East Change The Record campaign group.

In the Human Cost of Architecture talks, we’ll be hearing from a variety of viewpoints and experiences ranging from students and architects, small practices and large, from across the UK.

Part 1: Practice and processes will cover topics including:

  • What are we creating, losing, sacrificing, or exploiting in pursuit of architecture through the way we practice?
  • Architecture’s traditional mindset/practice/values are being challenged in many ways. We need progressive, inclusive practice fit for the future. What does this look like? Where has architecture failed people and what are we learning/changing?
  • Who’s being compromised in the profession through the way we educate, train and promote. How can we turn this around?

Speakers

  • Annette Fisher: Let’s Build, FA Global
  • Lanre Gbolade: Paradigm, Gbolade Design Studio
  • Charlie Edmonds: Future Architects Front
  • Craig Stott: Project Office
  • Chithra Marsh: Buttress Architects

The Human Cost of Architecture Part 2: Our built works

The Part 2 talks take place on Thursday 18 November from 5pm to 6.30pm. Topics will include:

  • What are we creating, losing, sacrificing or exploiting in pursuit of architecture through our built works?
  • What’s the human cost of our built work, our decisions, our specifications, our designs and our skills to include, collaborate and listen?
  • Who can we learn from, stories where community/people are genuinely thriving through what we create

Speakers confirmed for Part 2

  • Tim Bailey: Xsite, Construction Excellence
  • Sumita Singha OBE: Ecologic Architects
  • Nimi Attanayake: NimTim Architects

Find out more about The Human Cost of Architecture Part 2: Our built works

About J.E.D.I. talks

Over the last 18 months, the J.E.D.I. talks have become a popular platform for discussion on themes varying from flexible working, the impact of the pandemic, racism versus inclusion and gender diversity. Open and informal discussions where we hear from personal experiences and viewpoints have highlighted the imbalance often found in architectural practice and education. Our hope is that these conversations build understanding and kickstart change.

Everyone is welcome to join our conversation. We endeavour to be a non-hierarchical, value driven group in pursuit of equality, diversity and inclusion in architecture.