Sammode and the Quartus Endowment Fund join forces for a conference organised as part of the ‘Regenerating the City’ series

On Wednesday 8 October 2024, Sammode and the Quartus endowment fund for architecture co-hosted another conference as part of the ‘Regenerating the City’ series. Held in partnership with 51N4E and AUC, the event brought together leading architects and urban planners including Caroline Poulin, Djamel Klouche and Freek Persyn.

The central theme: how can we revitalise our cities without resorting to systematic demolition?

Not demolishing, but regenerating a city

At this conference, the speakers addressed a crucial question: ‘How do you avoid demolishing a building? Their reflections centred on the idea that demolition-reconstruction, although commonplace, is not the only solution. Regenerating, activating and stimulating existing spaces is used as a more sustainable and respectful response. This vision emphasises dialogue, sensitivity and foresight, while honouring the heritage that has been handed down to us.

A partnership based on shared values

This initiative is perfectly in line with the philosophy shared by Sammode and Quartus, two entities committed to a more environmentally-friendly approach. Transforming rather than demolishing, re-using rather than replacing, and extending the life of buildings are at the heart of this approach. These principles help to reduce the consumption of resources while breathing new life into existing urban spaces.

A challenge for the future of cities

Through this conference, Sammode and its partners want to show that the transformation of cities can be a vector for innovation, sustainability and respect for their inhabitants. Rather than seeing buildings as obsolete, this approach proposes giving them a new direction, preserving the past while preparing for the future. It's an inspiring vision for professionals in architecture and urban planning, but also for citizens who are concerned about the evolution of their living environment.

© Quartus Foundation

How do you avoid demolishing a building?