Shift Embassy: Vanity project of katalysator voor systeemverandering? 

Language: English
Moderator: Geert Maarse

With the recent announcement that MVRDV’s “Rotterdam ROCKS!” design has won the international design competition for the Shift Embassy in Rotterdam, the debate over the role of iconic architecture is more relevant than ever. The ambitious design for a sustainability landmark on the Maas River has drawn admiration for its imaginative power, but also criticism regarding its scale, symbolism, and the question of whether an iconic building can truly contribute to the climate transition. 

During this edition of Carbon Stories, we bring together diverse perspectives to explore the relationship between ends and means. What is the purpose and necessity of spectacular architecture? And can architecture, in combination with art, science, and technology, inspire fundamental behavioral change? 

A dialogue about what the climate transition truly demands of architecture, design, and the public imagination today. 

Speakers 

• Sanne van der Burgh – Director of Research & Innovation, MVRDV 

• Don Ritzen – Founder of Shift 

• Tracy Metz – Journalist, author, and moderator 

• Wouter Vanstiphout – Writer, educator, and urban planner at Crimson 

• Geerte Paradies – Scientist and Innovator, TNO 

• Derk Loorbach – Director of DRIFT, Professor of Socio-economic Transitions at Erasmus University Rotterdam, and academic leader of KIN 

Carbon Stories is an initiative of GROUP A | CARBONLAB, the International Architecture Biennale Rotterdam, and KeileCollectief, and is supported by the Rotterdam Climate Academy.