Themes

URBAN SUSTAINABILITY, LIVABILITY & RESILIENCE


Cities are the beating heart of human civilization, hubs of innovation, culture, and economic activity. However, their rapid growth and development often lead to destruction of the environment and the well-being of their inhabitants. The theme explores the concepts of sustainability, liveability, and resilience which have emerged as three pillars for shaping the future of cities.

The aim is to encourage innovations in urban planning and design by incorporating climate adaptation strategies, strengthening infrastructure, social cohesion and inclusivity. Suggested areas of discussion include circular economy, outdoor environmental quality, carbon footprint, urban food systems, heat islands, urban governance, risk mapping, degrowth, waste management, active recreation, urban resilience etc.

Urban Susutainability


Design for Social Innovation

DESIGN FOR SOCIAL INNOVATION


Social Innovation is the process of developing or enhancing goods, services, markets, business models, and other tools in order to apply new solutions to global issues and more successfully address unmet needs (The World Economic Forum). Design can play a major role in promoting social progress by creating and implementing workable solutions to systemic social and environmental problems.

The track, Design for Social and Business Innovation, encourages contributions to explore how design can provide an impetus to bring innovation in developing nations like India, while contributing to empowering communities , developing new strategies,creating new business models and promoting entrepreneurship.



HERITAGE STUDIES: THEORY & PRACTICE


Heritage and its conservation is crucial for the continuation of cultural and historical values of both man-made and natural heritage for future generations. This theme explores innovative strategies, methodologies, and technologies in the conservation of built, natural and intangible heritage in India.

Discussions include innovation and technology based documentation techniques, sustainable conservation practices, community involvement, and policy-making for protection of heritage. The theme aims to to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration, on how traditional knowledge systems can inspire and promote sustainable practices for future.



PERFORMANCE OF BUILDINGS


The theme explores the multifaceted dimensions of building performance, encompassing sustainability, resilience, and occupant well-being. The focus is on innovative approaches and best practices that enhance the operational efficiency, environmental impact, and overall functionality of buildings.

Key topics include energy efficiency, thermal performance, daylighting, occupant comfort, indoor environmental quality, alternative building materials and smart building technologies. The aim is to foster a holistic understanding of how buildings can better serve communities and the environment in the face of evolving challenges, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).



DIGITAL FUTURES


During this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, when the boundaries between physical and digital world diminish, a discourse on the future of design education is of utmost importance. Development of technology such as involving AI in design and automation, iterative designs process and appropriate technology have the potential that are likely to bring about a paradigm shift in design education.

The focus of the theme, "Digital Futures," is on the opportunities and difficulties that arise from using digital media to help with the design process and make design education more effective.

Digital Futures