Next Level Architecture: international architecture scene to meet at architecture forum of glasstec 2026

How do Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies change planning? What role do the circular economy and innovative glass solutions play in sustainable architecture? At the world-leading trade fair glasstec 2026 the “architecture forum” held as part of the “glasstec conference” will bring together internationally renowned architectural offices and experts in Düsseldorf to address these questions. Under the heading “Next Level Architecture – Digital Technologies and Glass in Climate-Neutral Architecture” current projects, new planning approaches and technology developments for architecture and building skins will be centre stage on 22 October.

International architecture scene in Düsseldorf

Speakers who have already confirmed their participation include Prof. Stefan Behling of Foster + Partners, Aser Gimenez Ortega of MVRDV, Matthew Oravec of Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), Martin Reuter of ingenhoven associates, Antonino Vultaggio of HPP Architekten, Philipp Eichstädt of seg architekten, Dr. Lisa Rammig of Eckersley O’Callaghan and Joachim Wendt of schneider+schumacher. The “architecture forum” will be hosted by Prof. Dr. Jutta Albus of Bochum University.

Concrete projects and practical examples will demonstrate how digital technologies, material innovations and integral planning approaches open up new perspectives for architecture and building skins.

One of the keynotes will be the lecture by Prof. Stefan Behling of Foster + Partners. Sustainable design and innovative technology are hallmarks of his work. His international projects include the Apple Park in Cupertino and Bloomberg in London.

The Chamber of Architects of North Rhine-Westphalia (AKNW) will again partner with the “architecture forum” and strengthen ties with architectural practice.

glasstec links architecture, material and technology

For architecture and planning experts the ranges at glasstec go far beyond the “glasstec conference”. As the world’s leading trade fair for the glass industry, it brings novel materials, applications and processing technologies to life. Offering a special insight into the latest developments in the material that is glass is the special show “glass technology live” (gtl), where manufacturers and research institutes showcase innovative solutions.

architecture forum at a glance

Thursday, 22 October 2026
12.45 pm to 6.00 pm
Stage 3 – “glass technology live”, Hall 11 C28

Participation is included in the admission price for glasstec.

glasstec 2026 will be held at Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre from 20 to 23 October 2026.

More information on the architecture forum

About glasstec

glasstec is the world-leading trade fair for glass production, finishing and products. Every two years it maps the entire value chain of the glass sector – from glass machinery construction and glass production to the glazier trade. From 20 to 23 October 2026, it will bring together decision-makers, market leaders and experts from the entire glass industry at Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre.

A programme of side events with an international focus links science with practice and addresses the industry’s key issues. The focus here is on the Hot Topics: Circularity, AI & Digital Technologies and Decarbonisation. These topics of tomorrow are discussed in conferences, forums and expert events where leading research, science and industry representatives share their approaches.

More information on glasstec