Diversity + Community will see some of the biggest names in international design and architecture coming to the National Gallery of Victoria in 2017 to discuss some of the less-charted terrains of the architectural practice, and to ultimately consider the role that architecture might be able to play as a positive force in uncertain times.

From February 10 to 12, 2017, this event will see architects looking globally and thinking locally, with a range of informative and inspirational talks being held to reveal the shifting priorities and emerging opportunities for responsive, culturally and socially engaged architecture.

The 21^st century has seen more change, culturally, climate-wise, and financially, than any other period in such a short time. With this in mind, how should architecture respond? Emphasising architecture that is open-minded, context specific and able to empower ideas of diversity and community, the Diversity + Community conference is a time for fresh ideas and optimism in design.

Diversity + Community is been developed in a partnership between the Architecture Foundation of Australia and the NGV Department of Contemporary Design and Architecture, and is being held alongside the current exhibition Architecture of Faith exploring Glenn Murcutt’s Australian Islamic Centre in Newport, Victoria.

This event is open to the architecture profession, students, and interested others.

Diversity + Community is set to bring together an eclectic mix of speakers from around the world. With the word ‘diversity’ in its name, it’s of no surprise that attendees can look forward to a diverse cross-section of socially and culturally interesting work, representing a mix of scale and experience.

Full details for this must see event on the design calendar can be seen at the Architecture Foundation of Australia’s website.