Norman Foster announced as headline speaker at World Design Congress

Promotion: British architect Norman Foster will be the headline speaker at the World Design Congress, examining how interconnected efforts across global borders and design sectors can tackle the climate crisis.

This year marks the 34th edition of the international congress, which takes place in London on 9-10 September, and is a "key moment for British design on the global stage". Fifty Dezeen readers can get £100 off two-day passes when they use the code LON25DEZEEN.

Curated by the UK's Design Council, leading designers will discuss the benefits of working collaboratively to design effective solutions for a regenerative future.

Under the theme Design for Planet, the congress will include talks, workshops and exhibits that examine a range of topical themes, from designing for net zero to the benefits of biomimicry.

Additional topics include designing for circularity, and how places can be shaped for regeneration using "communities as stewards".

"Advocating for planet-positive design, the congress will showcase cutting-edge practices and ideas that contribute to a sustainable future for all," said the Design Council.

Foster will kick off the event by discussing his perspectives and approach to designing for the planet.

Some of the architect's recent projects include designing the Manchester United football stadium and a shimmering bridge and transport hub as part of the Venice Architecture Biennale in collaboration with car brand Porsche.

"Foster will share his beliefs, boundary-pushing approach, and the philosophy that has shaped some of the most iconic buildings of our time," said the Design Council.

"This is a rare opportunity to hear from one of the greatest design minds of our time, challenging convention and reimagining what's possible for our planet."

Foster will speak alongside designer Thomas Heatherwick, architect Indy Johar, economist Marianna Mazzucato and environmental activist Tori Tsiu.

Additional speakers include Earthshot prize winner Charlot Magayi, musician Brian Eno, architect Mariam Issoufou and Doughnut Economics author Kate Raworth, among others.

"The event marks a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase some of the most innovative design solutions to the climate crisis to an international audience of over 1,000 designers, design advocates and policymakers," said the Design Council.

Dezeen is a media partner of the congress, which takes place at the Barbican from 9-10 September 2025. To purchase tickets, visit World Design Congress' website.

Fifty Dezeen readers have an exclusive £100 off two-day passes to the World Design Congress when they use the code LON25DEZEEN.

World Design Congress London takes place from 9-10 September 2025 in London. See Dezeen Events Guide for an up-to-date list of architecture and design events taking place around the world.

Partnership content

This article was written by Dezeen for the Design Council as part of a partnership. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

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