Architecture and Heritage Symposium
On 29 November at the Kulturfabrik, the city of Esch-sur-Alzette invites you to dive into the core of discussions shaping the architecture of today and tomorrow during its very first Architecture Symposium. For this inaugural edition, the theme "Architecture and Heritage" will shed light on the crucial challenges surrounding the preservation of the past and the innovations of the future.
This symposium, moderated by Céline Coubray (Paperjam), will bring together professionals, thinkers, and key players in the field to explore a central question: how can we blend heritage with innovation in urban development?
The event, aimed at professionals but also open to the general public, will be fully translated in real-time into French and German, fostering inclusive and international exchanges.
Join us at the Kulturfabrik (KUFA) for a day of captivating talks, lively debates, and surprises that will immerse you in the contemporary challenges of architectural heritage.
Registration (free)
Programme
The day will start with a welcoming session and an introduction.
This first session will focus on defining heritage: where can it be found, and how far should its protection go? Speakers will explore how regulatory frameworks influence heritage management, with both local and international perspectives.
Speakers:
- Patrick Sanavia / INPA, Director: The importance of regulatory frameworks
- Daisy Wagner: Esch – more than just a big city
- Philippe Nathan / Architect: Oedipus Luxemburgensis – international and/or environmental perspectives
- François Valentiny / Architect: Experiences and opinions, Esch and beyond
Debate: Speakers will be joined by an entrepreneur (Roland Kuhn, pending confirmation) and Louis Weisgerber, President of the Craftspersons Commission, for an enriching discussion.
A relaxing moment for informal exchanges.
The second session will focus on industrial heritage and its relationship with urbanism. Speakers will discuss how industrial heritage can be valued and reintegrated into the urban fabric.
Speakers:
- Yannick Kieffer / VDE Heritage: The contribution of industry
- Bernard Reichen / RRA: The spirit of the halls
- Henning Stüben / Urban Agency: A large-scale approach
Debate: Speakers will be joined by Sandra Huber (IKO) and Yves Biewer (Agora).
A chance to enjoy a drink before the final session.
The final session will present concrete examples and feedback on how heritage can drive innovative projects while remaining a tool for preservation.
Speakers:
- Jim Clemes / Architect: Concrete examples, experiences, and insights
- René Penning / KUFA, Director: Inside and above
- Günter Zamp Kelp / Architect: Heritage ... and more?! *Die OASE Nr. 7* in Esch re-activated!
Debate: Speakers will be joined by experts from INPA (Catherine Medernach), OAI, and the cultural sector, including Christian Mosar.