"Architecture & the Future" - Lecture By Herman Hertzberger
As part of LSBU’s 120 year anniversary celebrations, world-renowned Dutch Architect Herman Hertzberger addressed almost 250 guests comprising of LSBU alumni, students, staff and practitioners at London South Bank University.
This was his first major lecture in the United Kingdom since he was awarded the Presidents Medal by the RIBA in 2012. This long-awaited talk was a rallying call for all those involved in the profession and education to assume their responsibilities.
As the recession deepens across Europe and the role of the Architect is demoted to being a servant to capitalism, this was a timely reminder of the significance of Hertzberger’s architecture and its contribution to a humane society.
He started his lecture by looking back to a time when early modernist architecture had a progressive ideal, which was to improve things particularly in areas such as housing. Later this was replaced by postmodern and iconic architecture with buildings such the Sydney Opera House and later Bilbao where the aim of architecture is to put a city on a map. He ended his speech by showing the work of a UN architects in the University of Utrecht. The audience responded with obvious enthusiasm questioning Herman closely about the future of digital media in bringing people together.
Reaction from the attendees:
“Herman is an inspiring, humble and much respected thinker. One of the very few architects I have always wanted to hear speak who puts the thoughts of social interaction before his architectural pride.”
Umar Qureshi, class of 2008, Architecture
“A fantastic event. Herman was a huge influence on me ever since I went to visit his buildings in Holland. It’s great to be back at LSBU too.”
Lucia Casotta, class of 1992, Architecture and Urban Design
“This was a very interesting insight into a true architectural legend.”
Niall Crowley, Architect at HKR ARCHITECTS
“It’s inspiring in terms of how architecture can be so much more and interact in people’s daily lives.”
Ingrid Sekse, LSBU Architecture student