Architecture for a planet in transition

How can architecture respond to a world shaped by climate change, housing pressures, emerging technologies and shifting social priorities?

In the latest episode of the Value of Design podcast, we spoke with Rowan MacKinnon-Pryde and Nicky Thomson, directors of Edinburgh-based practice Studio Niro, about their experience attending the 2026 UIA World Congress of Architects in Barcelona.

Titled “Architecture for a planet in transition”, the fourth episode of the Value of Design Podcast explores the ideas shaping architecture around the world through a conversation with Rowan and Nicky. Drawing on insights from the UIA World Congress of Architects in Barcelona, the episode considers how international perspectives can help address challenges closer to home and create better places for people and communities.

Co-hosting this episode are Urban Designer Alex Laurenson and Outreach Officer Rachel McBryde from Architecture and Design Scotland.

Bringing together thousands of architects, designers and built environment professionals from across the globe, the Congress explored the theme “Architectures for a Planet in Transition”. The discussions ranged from circular construction and material reuse to housing, artificial intelligence and the evolving role of architecture in society.

What makes this conversation particularly relevant for Scottish audiences is how closely these global challenges mirror those being faced here at home. Rowan and Nicky reflect on issues including sustainability, skills shortages, housing affordability and the need to better communicate the wider value that design brings to society.

A key theme throughout the episode is that architecture is about far more than buildings. The Congress placed a strong emphasis on collaboration, critical thinking and design as a process rather than simply an end product. Instead of celebrating individual projects or "star architects", many sessions focused on debate, shared learning and interdisciplinary approaches to tackling complex challenges.

The conversation also explores the opportunities and tensions surrounding artificial intelligence in practice. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for designers, Rowan and Nicky discuss the importance of critical thinking, questioning data sources and understanding the values that underpin design decisions.

Despite addressing some of the most pressing issues facing the profession, the episode ends on a note of optimism. The discussion highlights how architects and designers can play a vital role in shaping more sustainable, resilient and meaningful places for future generations.

Whether you're an architect, planner, designer, student or simply interested in how our towns, cities and communities evolve, this episode offers valuable insights into the ideas shaping the future of design both internationally and here in Scotland.

Featuring

• Co-hosts: Alex Laurenson (Urban Designer) and Rachel McBryde (Outreach Officer, Architecture and Design Scotland
• Rowan MacKinnon-Pryde, Director and Co-Founder, Studio Niro 
• Nicky Thomson, Director and Co-Founder, Studio Niro

Resources

• Learn about Architecture and Design Scotland
• Learn about Studio Niro
• Learn about The UIA World Congress of Architects 2026 Barcelona

Value of Design is an original Architecture and Design Scotland podcast, where our in-house architects and designers speak with influential voices from design, architecture and the public sector. Listen using the player above or on your preferred podcast platform, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and SoundCloud.

We're always looking for new voices and fresh perspectives to feature throughout the Value Design podcast series. If you're an architect, designer, or a professional with a role in the built environment with an interesting project or topic to share, please get in touch.