Neighborhoods in transition

NEIGHBORHOODS IN TRANSITION
Reliefs urbains

Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
28-30 April 2025

Against a backdrop of climate and environmental crisis, architectural and landscape design is set to play a central role in the search for alternatives to urban sprawl, in order to regenerate and densify existing areas in close proximity to public transport and, more broadly, to make the art of building part of a dynamic transition towards a low-carbon society. In Switzerland, as in most European territories, it turns out that a large proportion of urbanised areas are on slopes, which creates multiple challenges in terms of buildings, landscape architecture, public spaces and mobility.

The general theme of the doctoral seminar is “Reliefs urbains”, i.e. sloping neighbourhoods in transition. Around 8 speakers from practice and academia will be invited to present their work in relation to the seminar theme. 

When registering, each participant chooses one representative case study from the list provided. Prior to the seminar, they carry out a series of preparatory readings/analyses. At the end of the seminar, each participant submits a summary report presenting the analysis work carried out on their study site.

During the seminar, interaction between participants and lecturers is strongly encouraged. Each participant has many opportunities to exchange views with the lecturers (round tables, etc.). More informal recreational activities are also planned (visits, meals). These enhance the attractiveness, opportunities for interaction and conviviality of the seminar.

Organisation
Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
Laboratory of Architecture and Sustainable Technologies (LAST)
Prof. Emmanuel Rey

Place and date
Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL)
28-30 April 2025

Coordination
Dr. Sophie Lufkin