Responsible architecture: new types of practice

Link to the recording 

This discussion explores a profound shift happening in the architectural world. Moderated by architect and professor Jean Souviron (ENSA Paris-Est), the panel investigates how the discipline is being redefined by new, hands-on forms of practice in response to the environmental crisis.

A deep dive into how architects are expanding their traditional roles. The conversation moves beyond design to examine architects as material producers, researchers, dismantlers of existing buildings, and even trainers for new builders.

The panel features three leading practitioners who embody this change:

• Alice Babini (Babini Geysen Architects), whose work focuses on building transformation, circular design, and material reuse.
• Ken De Cooman (BC architects & studies & materials), known for a holistic approach that integrates design, material production, and community engagement.
• Tina Gregorič (dekleva gregorič architects / TU Wien), who bridges academia and practice to explore material sensibility and the ethical dimensions of architecture.

Together, they debate whether this fundamental shift, getting hands dirty and taking responsibility for the entire building lifecycle, is essential for the future of responsible architecture.

This round table was recorded during the October School 2025, a four-day intensive event in Brussels dedicated to regenerative architecture. The school brought together 120 students, teachers, and practitioners from five European universities: KU Leuven, UHasselt, RWTH Aachen, the Estonian Academy of Arts, and TU Wien.

Participants were immersed in the theme through lectures, site visits, and three practical workshops focused on bio- and geo-sourced materials. 

Co-financed by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.