Barcelona, World Capital of Architecture and urban innovation laboratory: challenges and opportunities
How can architecture and urban planning respond to the major challenges of Barcelona?
Organized by the European Chambers of Commerce in Spain in collaboration with the Barcelona City Council, this event reflects on the present and future of Barcelona through the lens of architecture, urban planning, and landscaping.
As the UNESCO-UIA World Capital of Architecture 2026, Barcelona is a benchmark for urban innovation, yet faces major challenges in sustainability, housing, mobility, and climate adaptation. The session will explore strategic projects (such as the Ciutadella del Conocimiento and the reform of La Rambla) and showcase success stories illustrating how public-private collaboration generates long-term value for the city.
Featured Speakers & Program
Welcome & Introduction (5:00 PM)
Mario Rubert – Director of International Economic Promotion, Barcelona City Council
Christian Marion – Managing Director of the French Chamber of Commerce in Barcelona & Coordinator of European Chambers of Commerce in Spain
Keynote: The Barcelona of the Future (5:15 PM)
Elena Amat Serrano – Manager of Metropolitan Coordination and Major City Transformations, Barcelona City Council
Business Panel Discussion (5:45 PM)
Barcelona as a European laboratory for architecture and engineering: success stories transforming the urban environment.
Sofia Alexanderson – Partner at TBI Arquitectura, Ingeniería e Interiorismo
Oscar Conde Pérez – Connectivity & Automation Expert at GEZE Iberia
Daria de Seta – Partner at Garcés de Seta Bonet Arquitectes
Itziar Huarte – Senior Partner & Project Director at L35 Arquitectos
Moderated by:Jelena Prokopljevic (Architect & Professor at La Salle / UPF)
Open Q&A, Conclusions & Closing (6:45 PM)
Business Networking & Drinks (7:15 PM – 8:00 PM)
An opportunity to connect with speakers, attendees, and representatives of European chambers of commerce.