In this remarkable lecture, Norwegian architect Arne Sødal shares the inspiring story behind the reconstruction of Holmenkollen Chapel, a beloved wooden church in Oslo that was tragically destroyed by arson in 1992. From timber selection and decorative carving to overcoming resistance from modernist institutions, this lecture is a powerful testament to the value of craftsmanship, tradition, and community in contemporary architecture.

Join Vincent Veneman on an inspiring journey as he recounts his unconventional path to becoming an architectural designer. This lecture details his self-taught approach to mastering classical architecture, beginning with his early love for drawing and music. This talk offers a unique perspective on architectural education and the power of pursuing your true calling.

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation led by architect Arild Eriksen, with guest speakers Robert Adam, Ola Fjeldheim, Eric Zapel and John Simpson.

Join architect Karl F. Honningsvåg as he discusses his master's thesis project: a classical counter-proposal for the National Museum in Oslo. The core of his presentation showcases his classical design for the National Museum, focusing on its integration with the Oslo site, proposed functions, and the meticulous hand-drawn design process.

In this provocative presentation, James Stevens Curl delivers a scathing critique titled "The Failure of Architecture Education." Drawing on historical observations, he argues that modern architectural education has deliberately jettisoned critical study and knowledge of historical architecture, promoting a "quasi-religious fundamentalist cult of modernist architecture".

In this captivating lecture, architect John Simpson unpacks the resurgence of classical design and urban planning. This lecture is a compelling exploration of how historical precedents, coupled with a deep understanding of human perception and urban function, can guide the creation of meaningful and sustainable places for the future.

Join us for an insightful introduction to architectural watercolor rendering, tailored for the Beauty and Ugliness in Architecture 2025 conference! This lecture unveils essential techniques for bringing architectural designs to life with watercolor. Discover how to achieve even pigment distribution, create seamless gradients, and, most importantly, master the art of applying shadows that make your drawings truly pop.

In this thought-provoking lecture, architectural theorist Branko Mitrovic explores the growing tension between aesthetic values and sustainability narratives in contemporary architecture. Building on his book Architectural Principles in the Age of Fraud, Mitrovic examines how concerns about environmental impact are increasingly used, sometimes disingenuously, to justify visual and architectural shortcomings.

Join Ruben Hansen as he uncovers the silent frustration many feel about their urban environments and how a powerful movement is emerging to reclaim beauty in our cities. In this compelling lecture, Hansen reveals how social media, particularly viral videos, is shifting the architectural narrative and connecting countless individuals who share a desire for more aesthetic surroundings.

In this excerpt from their master thesis, Elise Skeide Vibe and Sigurd Randby explore the "Aesthetic Repair of Post War Architecture," focusing on the transformation of a 1950s/60s Norwegian town hall. They highlight the widespread challenge of unengaging public buildings from this era, often facing demolition due to changing political landscapes and unpopular aesthetics. This talk provides a fascinating case study in revitalizing unloved structures.

Join Professor John Simpson, principal of John Simpson Architects, in an engaging conversation from the Beauty and Ugliness in Architecture 2025 conference. This interview offers a compelling perspective on the role of traditional architecture in contemporary society and delivers an encouraging message to the younger generation shaping the built environment.

In this insightful presentation from the Norwegian Symposium on Beauty in Architecture 2025, Bjørn Vidar Johansen introduces Murbyen Oslo, a center dedicated to preserving Oslo's historical apartment buildings constructed with stone, brick, and mortar. The strategy of Murbyen Oslo involves connecting owners with responsible building industries and cultural heritage experts, emphasizing the critical importance of keeping traditional craftsmanship and techniques alive.