The Three Chimneys of Sant Adri\u00e0<\/strong>, a former thermal power station that closed in 2011, stands as a paradoxical symbol for the upcoming World Architecture Congress<\/strong>. Declared the World Capital of Architecture<\/strong> for 2026 by UNESCO, Barcelona is set to welcome over 10,000 architects from across the globe, including renowned Pritzker Prize winners. This iteration of the congress focuses heavily on urban recovery<\/strong>, the housing crisis<\/strong>, and the climate emergency<\/strong>.<\/p>\n As architect Pau Sarquella<\/strong> states, “For almost 40 years, this power plant emitted vast amounts of CO2. Now, it represents culture and the essence of the congress.” The central exhibition, titled Becoming: Architectures for a Planet in Transition<\/strong>, insists on addressing the urgent environmental challenges that cities face.<\/p>\n Over the course of the congress, which boasts more than 250 speakers, various installations will display innovative solutions to today\u2019s pressing issues. Among these, one standout exhibition addresses the loss of biodiversity in the Ebro Delta<\/strong>, hindered by over 110 dams that obstruct natural sediment flow.<\/p>\n Another prominent study examines how cities can adapt to rising temperatures, focusing on rethinking mobility and infrastructure to improve living conditions, particularly in urban nightlife. With installations exhibiting new materials\u2014including algae-based bricks\u2014these contributions serve as practical steps toward addressing real-life challenges.<\/p>\n The Three Chimneys<\/strong> will host multiple installations, including Public Pleasure<\/strong>, an artistic endeavor that juxtaposes themes of nightlife and personal freedom with contemporary societal issues. In stark contrast, another installation by Forensic Architecture<\/strong> maps the aftermath of conflict zones, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian architectural practices.<\/p>\n These artistic expressions serve as both thought-provoking experiences and practical prompts for negotiations between aesthetics and functionality in modern architecture.<\/p>\n As Marta Vall-llossera<\/strong>, president of the congress, emphasizes: “In the 90s, Barcelona opened itself to the world and became an inspiration. Today, our major challenges are climate change and housing. Architects and urban planners must provide real solutions that translate into public policy.”<\/p>\n Following the congress, the exhibition Becoming<\/strong> will be available to the public starting July 2nd. This event marks the second time Barcelona will host the World Architecture Congress, having first done so in 1996 during a period of significant urban transformation. <\/p>\n As the city continues to grapple with gentrification and a lack of affordable housing, it aims to forge a new path for modern urbanism\u2014one that blends sustainability, accessibility, and innovative design.<\/p>\n Barcelona stands at a crucial juncture, facing the pressing challenges posed by housing shortages and climate change. Through the World Architecture Congress, the city not only reaffirms its role as a global architectural hub but also strives to lead the conversation around sustainable urban living. With a roster of international experts and a commitment to meaningful change, Barcelona is poised to navigate its future with fresh perspectives and actionable solutions.<\/p>\nInnovative Solutions for Urban Challenges<\/h3>\n
Artistic Expressions with a Message<\/h3>\n
The Need for Real Solutions<\/h3>\n
Looking Ahead<\/h3>\n
Conclusion<\/h3>\n