Brussels, Belgium

Challenging Modernism Summer Workshop

Challenging Modernism is a summer workshop about the future of late modernist buildings. From 12 to 16 September 2022, the summer school offers a practice-based learning and networking event centred on modernist patrimony in Brussels. We investigate how we can challenge modernism in the face of contemporary demands. We investigate if its premises are still valid for the grand challenges of the 21st century:

How do qualities of young, modernist patrimony measure up to its challenges?

How can we prove the qualities to governments, owners and to the wider audience?

How can we challenge modernism by testing it to contemporary demands?

Course leader

Challenging Modernism is a joint initiative of a2o, WDJA, Multiple, WIT and Koen Van Synghel. As architects, educators, and critics, we work daily with the relics of modernism.

Target group

The Challenging Modernism Summer Workshop is aimed at international newly graduated students and professionals in the field of architecture, building design, urban planning and engineering sciences.

Course aim

During this summer workshop, small groups of young designers are coached by experienced architects. The goal is to organize a temporary working team and to simulate the investigation, production and decision-making processes that determine architectural practice. In this practical approach, we aim to complement summer schools with an academic objective.

Fee info

EUR 250: The course fee includes:

• Orientation & Support
• Programme according to description
• Teaching materials
• Certificate
• Internet access at the event location
• 2 evening lectures
• Drinks and lunches are provided throughout the event