Architecture & Tourism, climate change and tourism

With international tourist receipts reaching 1 trillion dollars and international visitor spending reaching 64% of the pre-pandemic level* the self-evident and key starting point in the tourism development debate has increased public interest. From the world to Greece, the industry is also booming. Tourism receipts reached €17.676 billion, with slightly reduced travel receipts and payments, but an increased travel balance **.

At the present time, the rise of tourism can be likened to a journey. With an exciting adventure. At every step, it presents the possibility of choosing through a variety of strategic directions. At every “turn”, it holds opportunities and challenges. Meanwhile, today more than ever, attention is focused on the aspects of tourism development, thanks to its contribution to GDP and its support to other sectors of the economy, such as primary agri-food and the catering industry, but also because of a large percentage represented by tourism projects in the field of major investments, infrastructure projects and the construction sector.

The last parameter – perhaps the most obvious economically – links architecture with tourism. The combination of nature, the built environment, people and their activities, which make up the identity of the place and the uniqueness – or the opposite – of the experience is yet another parameter. In fact, it forms a “definition” of the place, which forms the basis of place branding, with the aim of serving our business goals.

In this context, it is clear that architecture can provide solutions – or alleviate – for a number of burning issues. To these issues is added, with decisive dynamics for the future, the great challenge of climate change.

In anticipation of COP28, in the United Arab Emirates, the debate around policies and initiatives – such as setting targets to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, promoting sustainable tourism practices and incentivizing the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure – has already begun internationally. – aimed at addressing threats such as extreme weather events, sea level rise, water scarcity, desertification, dependence on fossil fuels, changes in temperature and potential conflicts over natural resources***.

What will be the role of architecture in shaping this new era?
What are the real aspects of sustainability that will contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of tourism and how, at the same time, will they create the background for traveler satisfaction?
How is the authenticity and character of a place reconciled with the international character of priorities and strategies?
What other macro-environmental trends do the consequences of climate change interact with, affecting tourism? Can architecture help?

These topics will be covered by the 5th Architecture and Tourism Conference, organized by Design Ambassador and Archisearch.gr, in strategic collaboration with the Mediterranean Architecture Center and under the auspices of the Municipality of Chania.

*Data 2022, World Tourism Organization, A United Nations Specialized Agency ** Bank of Greece details *** United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction

12:00-12:30 SALUTATIONS OF OFFICIALS – CONFERENCE OPENING

12:35-12:55

13:00-13:30

Panel 1 Infrastructure for Sustainable and Enjoyable Cities_ A conversation on scale and impact

The rapid growth in tourism continues to drive the need for infrastructure that can meet evolving demands. But what exactly do we mean by “infrastructure”? How do we perceive the significance of infrastructure across its entire spectrum, ranging from large-scale projects to everyday amenities? Can small interventions that make exploration sustainable and encourage authentic local interactions promote a sustainable tourism model? Can they contribute to preserving the essence of “outdoor Greek life” in the era of climate change?

13:30-13:40

Keynote. Why I Invest in Greece. Lessons Learned from a foreign investor.

13:40-14:10 

Panel 2 Extending the Tourist Season_ A “Glocal” Challenge

How can the tourism industry adapt to the current environmental, demographic, and work-related trends while considering both their positive and negative impacts? Climate change, demographic shifts in Western countries, and the hybrid work model all present opportunities for extending the tourist season. Simultaneously, reshaping the economy to cater to year-round tourism and rebranding destinations to attract visitors become imperative. What architectural strategies can support these ambitious goals?

14:15-14:45

Panel 3 Reimagining Public Spaces_ Best Practices for Enhanced Living

This panel explores our approach to shaping and fostering public spaces and structures. What constitutes the ideal conditions for competitive processes in public space and building design? What valuable insights can we draw from international best practices? Will the high standards and stringent specifications applied to building construction extend to the broader public realm? Additionally, this panel will define the value of urban and spatial planning, transcending individual buildings, to impact everyday coexistence and place branding.

14:45-14:55 Keynote. Spyros Hound. Creating Narratives with Photography 

14:55-15:25

Panel 4 Beyond greenwashing_ Exploring the fundamentals of sustainability in tourism and architecture

The use of tourist numbers as the primary indicator of tourism development is a clear example of focusing on a single metric. However, can it define a sustainable tourism development model? On the architectural level, do certifications alone suffice to demonstrate a genuinely sustainable building? Sustainability in tourism is a multidimensional issue that must consider numerous factors.

15:30-16:00

Panel 5 Financially sustainable_ A conversation on the role of architecture

Through an interdisciplinary approach, we examine the role of architecture in generating value for the tourism sector and its contribution to economic sustainability and the balance of trade in an era where tourism plays a pivotal role in the global economy. In this discussion, we focus on how architecture shapes the traveler’s experience while simultaneously influencing the economic performance of the tourism industry.

16:00-16:10

IN CONVERSATION WITH FOTIS KOKOTOS, DEVELOPER, HOTELIER, DESIGNER, ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER. SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY. (VIDEO)

16:10-16:40

Panel 6 Leisure built environment and local authorities_ A new horizon for mutual benefit

Hotels play a pivotal role in either contributing to or hindering the sustainable development of a destination, depending on their needs and architectural programs. What should be the foundations for an effective collaboration between hotels and local authorities? What reciprocal benefits can hotels offer to the local community? What are the needs of architects as they engage with municipal representatives? What institutional connections can be established within a government agency to ensure steps toward tourism development benefit both sides positively? In this panel, we assess the current state of affairs and gather proposals, drawing from the experiences of hoteliers, architects, and policymakers.

16:45-17:15

Panel 7 Transforming Communities_Short-Term Rentals, Architecture, and the Shifting Landscape of Residential Areas 

This panel aims to deepen our understanding of the intricate dynamics between short-term rentals, architecture, and the communities they inhabit. How can these factors harmoniously coexist? What challenges arise, and how can they inspire innovative approaches that benefit both travelers and permanent residents? By examining the evolving landscape of tourism and architecture, we can work towards creating new sustainable typologies and vibrant communities for all stakeholders involved.

17:15 – 17:35 IN CONVERSATION

17:35-18:05

Panel 8 Innovative Tourism Experiences_Themed Hotels, Architectural Design, and Sustainable Seasonal Extension

The challenge of extending the tourist season and attracting a diverse range of travelers inspires creativity. We uncover paths, celebrations, culinary events, and experiences beyond the established standards of “sea and sun” summer leisure. Can the nature and lifestyle of a region inspire themed hotels? How can architectural design respond? Can large tourism infrastructures remain financially sustainable over an extended season, and what additions to their offerings are required? How can place branding help convey the message?

18:10-18:40

Panel 9 The future of experience design_ Extreme personalization through data

AI-powered rooms adjust all conditions, even resizing spaces using mobile elements according to each occupant’s preferences. Digital 3D printers produce raw materials for local delicacies. Automated transport systems operate instantly for an on-demand, synchronized travel experience. What does “realistic proposals” mean today for travel experiences and architectural production, and what can it mean in the future? What we currently research and organize through our smartphones could become automated through data collection. Science fiction movies become reality, and research evolves into realities beyond imagination.

Video link: www.vimeo.com/archisearch