On-Demand
April 2022
1 HSW CE Credit, AIA # DAS448-22 - 1, IDCEC # 116363
“Cultural Identity as much as biodiversity should be preserved for the benefit of present and future generations” (UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity)
For centuries, architecture has been the physical representation of our cultural diversity, heritage, and history. Architecture helps communities to identify themselves with their history and way of living while also providing practical solutions to real problems. In the current times where we are facing many challenges, from climate change to conflicts and shelter insecurity, it is more than ever important for Architects to redirect professional efforts and create a more community-oriented and resilient architecture practice. In this session, Italian-born Somali Architect Omar Degan will walk you through the core principles needed to build a more resilient, sustainable, and community-driven architecture practice.
The content of this course has not been approved by the United Nations and does not reflect the views of the United Nations or its officials or Member States.
In his TEDx “Architecture, Identity and Reconstructing Somalia,” Omar Degan highlighted the power of culture and traditions in architecture and how design can become a tool to promote peace and sustainable development around the world.
Recognized internationally for his work in Somali, Italy, and the United States, Omar is considered one of the emergent voices of African architecture for his unique contribution to the continent and his work in the post-conflict reconstruction of Somalia.
As a Somali-Italian architect and the Principal and Founder of DO Architecture Group, Omar brings his unique understanding of the role of architecture in emergency contexts, post-conflict reconstruction, and cultural identity to design culturally, historically, and climatically relevant solutions to a wide range of challenges around the world.
Upon completion, you will be able to:
Understand what cultural identity in architecture is and how it can be used to support peace and development.
Build healthier, safer and more resilient communities able to face current challenges through the use of a bottom-up architecture.
Implement a different design approach that will help you to improve the health and well being of those you serve.
Create a more flexible and sustainable architecture practice able to face moments of crisis and economic challenges .
Entire 2023 series
$345 Single payment
Single session
$45 Single payment
Entire 2023 series
$29/month 12 Monthly payments
In joining the Change by Design series, you’ll be exposed to new points of view, have the opportunity to develop your own vision for your work, and get inspiration and practical tips for how to act on that vision.
Browse our entire series lineup or look at some recommendations below.
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May 2021
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Large-scale changes all start small. Yet, little by little, it all contributes to building the world we want to live in. It starts with a simple conversation. Our Change by Design series is that conversation starter.
Join our series of monthly 1-hour sessions curated to bring you innovative ideas from world-leading practitioners. We invite you to make a difference - locally and globally - one conversation and project at a time.
Need more motivation? Read our Change by Design inspiration post.
