Topics on Past, Present and Future

TOPIC I - PAST
Presentations in Topic I should provide context into what has shaped the world of today.

Example presentations may include research on the state of diversity within architecture, the history of architecture, particularly as it applies to underrepresented groups through exclusionary practices, or context for systemic issues that contribute to the breakdown of community, and how black, brown, underrepresented, and poor people are disproportionately affected. Topics can be specific or case study based, but should aim to expand/relate the messaging more broadly.

Example Themes for this Topic:

• Historic Figures

• Historic Architectural Projects

• History of Public Policies affecting Building, Urban Design, and movement of Populations

• Systemic Issues engrained in Laws and Policy

TOPIC II - PRESENT

Presentations in Topic II should investigate hot topics in our region and recent trends in architecture.

Example presentations may include recent policy that impacts Architecture and equitable access to the profession, community engagement and strategies for more inclusive design practice from beginning to end, or critical analysis of current trends that may be around for a limited time but can have a lasting impact. Topics in this section may also include wild card entries that represent presenter curiosities that have parallel or tangential relationships to architectural practice.

Example Themes for this Topic:

• Current Public Figures and Changemakers

• Current Architectural Projects

• Recently Enacted Legislation and how it affects the world today 

• AI

TOPIC III - FUTURE

Presentations in Topic III should investigate hot topics in our region and recent trends in Architecture.

This includes sustainable practices, change management, community engagement, leadership + mentoring, retention, and recruitment. Topics in this section should highlight what’s next and the call to take action.

Example Themes for this Topic:

• Theory, Design Methodologies, and Practices that have the potential to change Architectural Practice

• Master Plans with longer term effects on city growth

• Issues in our current world that are in need of future change

• Impact of AI and Automation on architectural design, and construction processes and related user experience

PLEASE EMAIL ANY QUESTIONS OR SUBMISSIONS TO admin@nomacentraltx.org.