Global architects gather in Colombo for AIA International Conference 2025

SPOTLIGHTING Colombo in the global architecture scene, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) International Conference 2025 kicked off yesterday, marking the second time Sri Lanka has hosted this prestigious event.

- BY DIVYA THOTAWATTE

The conference, themed 'The Art within Architecture,' will be held from 9-11 October at Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Its inauguration gathered some of the world's most celebrated architects, together with other influential local and international personalities, including key representatives from the AIA, local political figures, and ambassadors. Mayor of Colombo Vraie Cally Balthazaar and former President Ranil Wickremesinghe were present as Guests of Honour.

Speaking at the event, AIA National President Evelyn Lee highlighted the necessity of a climate-conscious and human-focused approach to architecture in the delicate and rapidly-changing state of the current world.

"It's hard to talk about Sri Lanka's incredible natural and cultural landscape without thinking about how fragile these gifts are, and how much responsibility we have as architects. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and the depletion of natural resources are not abstract challenges; they are real. Their realities shape our work right now."

She further stressed that, as a global profession, architecture was falling behind and was insufficient with regard to climate action. It was therefore necessary to act with urgency and optimism, designing buildings that both minimised carbon impact and safeguarded human health and wellbeing, Lee said.

The conference included world-class speakers who engaged the audience of professionals in thought-provoking discussions, sharing expertise and perspectives on key industry topics.