Architecture Matters

Name: Architecture Matters
Address: Munich, DE
Telephone: +49 89 461 331 635

Startseite
Deutschland
Munich
Architecture Matters

Inspiration. Business. Network. Annual international conference on the future of architecture and cities, which brings together all relevant stakeholders.

09/05/2026

“One has to be an optimist to be an architect, right?”

At Architecture Matters, Liz Diller left us with a simple but powerful thought: Why bother, if you don’t believe you can change the world?

So here’s the question:
Do you still need optimism to shape the future of our cities — or is something else required today?

UrbanFuture

01/05/2026

On May 1st, we return to a simple but often overlooked statement: Architecture is work.

At Architecture Matters, Reinier de Graaf (OMA) shared a sequence of theses from his book Architecture against Architecture—cutting through the discipline’s self-mythologizing.

Not a vocation.
Not a calling.
Not a mission.

Work.

And like any form of work, it comes with workers’ rights.
A reminder that architecture does not exist outside the conditions of labor—but firmly within them.

Wishing everyone a meaningful Labour Day.

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29/04/2026

500 people. Two days. Countless conversations. One growing community.

Thank you for being part of Architecture Matters 2026 — and for celebrating with us 10 years of Architecture Matters.

What began as a curated exchange between disciplines has grown over the past decade into a vibrant, international community of decision-makers, thinkers, and practitioners shaping the built environment together. This year’s conference made that evolution tangible once again — in every discussion, every encounter, and every moment of exchange.

From keynote lectures by Elizabeth Diller, Carlo Ratti, and Reinier de Graaf to the focus sessions and investor discussions — what connected everything was the openness to question, to listen, and to rethink.

Architecture Matters is not only a conference. It is a community that has grown over 10 years — and continues to grow with every edition.

Thank you for being part of it.

28/04/2026

Architecture Matters 2026

From the opening reception at ZIRKA in Munich’s Kreativquartier to a full day of keynotes, debates, and focus sessions at the House of Communication — this year’s edition brought together perspectives that challenged, inspired, and connected.

With keynote contributions by Elizabeth Diller, Carlo Ratti, and Reinier de Graaf, discussions ranged from public space and social connection to the role of architecture in uncertain geopolitical times.

A day full of critical questions, bold ideas, and real dialogue — exactly what Architecture Matters stands for.

Photos: Tanja Kernweiss

Munich Conference

25/04/2026

Architecture is a very old profession!

Sharp, provocative, and laced with unmistakable dry humor—Reinier de Graaf (OMA) took the stage at Architecture Matters 2026 with a lecture that cut straight to the discipline’s contradictions.

Drawing parallels between aging power structures in politics and architecture, he questioned why influence so often outlives relevance—and what it means for a field that struggles to let go.

A lecture that resonates—and lingers.

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photo: Tanja Kernweiss

24/04/2026

Carlo Ratti, Carlo Ratti Associati
Why does architecture matter?

In his keynote, Carlo Ratti offers a compelling answer: because the future of our cities will be shaped at the intersection of technology, design, and society. As director of the MIT Senseable City Lab, his work explores how data and digital innovation can transform the built environment into something more responsive, adaptive, and human.

From global exhibitions such as the Venice Biennale to over 250 publications and multiple patents, Ratti’s practice moves fluidly between research and application—always with the goal of sparking public debate on urban life.

UrbanInnovation

23/04/2026

A special moment at Architecture Matters ✨

Following her inspiring lecture, Liz Diller (Diller Scofidio + Renfro) took the time to meet visitors and personally sign copies of Architecture, Not Architecture — creating a rare opportunity for direct exchange beyond the stage.

What made this moment truly exceptional: Liz Diller (Diller Scofidio + Renfro) engaged generously with each guest, making the book signing a highlight of the conference and an unforgettable experience for many.

A big thank you to Liz Diller (Diller Scofidio + Renfro) for her time, generosity, and warmth.

Photos: Tanja Kernweiss

21/04/2026

Architecture, as we know it, is in crisis.

Sharp, witty, and at times disarmingly funny—Reinier de Graaf (OMA) took the stage at Architecture Matters 2026 with a keynote based on his latest book “Architecture Against Architecture: A Manifesto.”

With striking clarity (and plenty of dry humor), he challenged the discipline’s core assumptions—questioning authorship, power structures, and the role of architects in a world increasingly shaped by AI, economics, and ethics.

This reel captures a moment from his reflections on AI in architecture.

A manifesto that makes you think—and laugh.

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photo: Tanja Kernweiss

19/04/2026

States of Uncertainty — Opening Reception AM2610Y

An evening shaped by dialogue, atmosphere, and a shared sense of urgency.

At ZIRKA Space, 120 invited guests gathered at long tables, setting the scene for an intimate yet powerful opening to our 10-year anniversary. Among them, Liz Diller (DS+R, New York)

With compelling perspectives from Franz-Stefan Gady and Gerald Knaus, the evening traced the contours of uncertainty—from shifting geopolitical orders to the evolving nature of conflict and security.

Welcomed by Elisabeth Merk, Klaus-Peter Potthast, Christian Meister and thoughtfully moderated by Nadin Heinich, the conversation moved between tension and clarity—grounded, precise, and quietly intense.

A curated menu by and a scenographically composed table setting by .sigg turned the dinner into a spatial experience in itself.

.space .knaus

Photos: Tanja Kernweiss

18/04/2026

Opening Keynote — Liz Diller (DS+R)

„Many artists try to have political themes, do political work, but then the question is, what happens if your work is politicized? It wasn’t really intended to be political.“

Kicking off Architecture Matters 2026, Liz Diller reflected on Zaryadye Park. Positioned at the heart of Moscow, the park reclaims a layered site and transforms it into an open, democratic landscape—where architecture, ecology, and public life intersect.

A powerful opening to this year’s theme: How to Connect to an Uncertain Future.

Photo: Iwan Baan

Adresse

Munich

Telefon

+49 89 461 331 635

Webseite

https://architecturematters.eu/

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