(UK) – Architect@Work, the two-day trade fair aimed at the British architecture and design (A&D) community, will return to the Truman Brewery, London on 22 and 23 March.

The 10th edition will see a line-up of talks and over 200 of the latest product innovations in surface solutions, lighting technology, as well as interior and exterior fixtures and fittings, showcased by a selection of leading architectural suppliers. Other show highlights include the RIBA Bookshop and a photographic exhibition by World-Architects. With a free bar and catering throughout, visitors will be able to network in a modern, creative and lounge-like atmosphere.

This year’s theme, Energy & Ecosystems, will allow the talks programme to explore a range of different projects, places and experiences. Talks will take place both in-person and via live stream.

The keynote talk in the series will be with Amin Taha. After working for a number of architectural practices such as Chris Wilkinson Architects (later Wilkinson Eyre) and Zaha Hadid Architects, he founded Amin Taha Architects in 2003 in London that later changed its name to Groupwork. Author Dr Ruth Lang will be in conversation with Taha about the journey to a future built on the past.

For the first time, Architect@Work will host a Negroni Talk. Created in 2018, The Negroni Talks – hosted by architects Fourthspace and sponsored by Campari – were set up to replicate the lively and provocative debates that took place in the European café culture of the early twentieth century. This lively debate series has taken the architecture scene by storm, picking up an Archiboo Award in 2021  and spawning a host of articles and wider industry conversations.

‘Net zero – fact or fallacy?’ will question what the concept of net zero really means. With carbon offsetting taking place abroad, there is a fiery debate raging about the ethical and practical implications of net zero.

‘Positive about energy saving’ will explore how the energy our buildings consume (or operational carbon to the initiated) is one of the big challenges architects, designers and developers face. Tenants want to work in a green building and new regulations are shifting towards more efficient places to live and work in. How do we manage this from the concept and financing, through to the landscape and lighting?

‘Making the most of waste’ will question how we fit out our homes and workspaces with materials that make the most of waste and whether this affects aesthetics. Chaired by Debika Ray, editor of Crafts Magazine.

‘Earth Building: what can the planet provide?’, chaired by curator and writer Vanessa Norwood, will explore how we create a new built environment using the materials supplied by Mother Earth. Ancient buildings were made of straw, timber and stone. It looks like a brighter and more sustainable path might be trodden if we return to our roots but we will need research and clever engineering.

‘Creating climate equity’ will discuss how the key to making better environments for all is through inclusivity and diversity. We can create spaces that work better for different communities by listening to a broader spectrum of opinions.

www.architect-at-work.co.uk