European Architecture Institutions Conference
November 13, 2025
November 15, 2025
From 13 to 15 November 2025, a three-day gathering of European architectural institutions takes place in Copenhagen. The event is hosted by the Danish Architecture Center (DAC), a member of the Advisory Committee of the EUmies Awards, and is organised in connection with the shared Polish–Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2025 and together with the EDAP/ECAP meetings.
The programme examines the evolving role of architectural institutions in Europe, focusing on how they contribute to cultural value, social cohesion and the care of architectural heritage in a period marked by complex challenges, including the climate crisis, social and economic instability and geopolitical tensions.
Through a series of presentations and discussions, the gathering explores how architecture and its institutions can support more connected, resilient and compassionate futures across Europe. It brings together colleagues from across the continent to share insights and reflect collectively on the future of European architectural institutions.
Day 1 — Thursday, 13 November
15:00 — Check-in and refreshments
Venue: Danish Architecture Center, Bryghuspladsen 10
15:30 — Welcome to DAC and BLOX
Kent Martinussen, Danish Architecture Center
17:00 — Meet – Share – Discuss: Strengthening European Collaboration
A dedicated space for informal exchange and opportunities for shared initiatives.
18:30 — DAC Exhibition Tours
So Danish! and Age of Nature
With Kasper Riisholt and Kent Martinussen
21:30 — Welcome Reception
Joint event with the Danish Ministry of Culture (EDAP/ECAP) and the City of Copenhagen (European City Architects).
Day 2 — Friday, 14 November
08:30 — Registration and coffee
09:00 — Welcome
09:15 — Opening Remarks
Kent Martinussen, DAC
Keynote
10:00 — Form Follows Fuel: Building into (and out of?) Ecological Crisis
Dr. Barnabas Calder, University of Liverpool
A reflection on how architectural history can inform urgent climate adaptation and mitigation.
Session: New Beginnings
Exploring visions and values shaping the future of architectural institutions.
Presentations by:
- Pilvi Kalhama — Architecture & Design Museum Helsinki
- Peter Cachola Schmal — German Architecture Museum (DAM)
- Petra Marko — TU-BA / Metropolitan Centre of Bratislava
Moderator: Kika Krista Kjærside (DAC)
12:00 — Lunch & Networking
Session: Broad Engagement
How institutions can inspire, reach wider publics and build cross-disciplinary connections.
Presentations by:
- Aukje Bolle — Nieuwe Instituut
- Emmett Scanlon — Irish Architecture Foundation
- Eszter Dávida — Hungarian Contemporary Architecture Centre (KÉK)
Moderator: Stepan Bärtl (CAMP)
15:00 — Afternoon sweets & networking
Session: Shared Platforms
How awards, festivals and shared initiatives create visibility and meaning.
Presentation:
- Ivan Blasi — Fundació Mies van der Rohe
Moderator: Kika Krista Kjærside (DAC)
17:30 — Meet – Share – Discuss: Reflections on Collaboration
18:00 — Closing Remarks
Kent Martinussen, DAC
19:00 — Farewell Networking Dinner
Day 3 — Saturday, 15 November
10:00–14:00
Architecture Tour: Copenhagen — The Classics and The New
Led by Kent Martinussen.
Starting and ending at DAC, Bryghuspladsen 10.
Venue
Danish Architecture Center (DAC)
Bryghuspladsen 10, 1473 Copenhagen, Denmark
Participants
A wide range of representatives from European architecture museums, centres, institutes, festivals, universities, cultural organisations and public bodies will take part, including institutions from Finland, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Slovakia, Poland, the Netherlands, Hungary, Ireland, France, Iceland, Luxembourg, Norway, Turkey, the UK and more.