Global Symposium on Evidence-based and Holistic Design

The Global Symposium on Evidence-based and Holistic Design is convening in Amsterdam at Felix Meritis, where architects, designers, researchers, and experts from various fields will explore the relationship between architecture, health, and well-being. This symposium emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that resonate with human experiences and the natural environment, moving beyond mere functionality to foster genuine connections with our surroundings. Attendees will engage with themes such as health-inducing design, neurodiversity, biophilic design, and the integration of natural elements into architectural practice. The event aims to inspire participants to rethink how environments influence emotions and behaviors, promoting a regenerative approach to design that nurtures both people and nature.Participants will benefit from five mornings of exclusive lectures delivered by renowned experts, alongside afternoon workshops that translate theoretical concepts into practical applications. These immersive experiences will include a boat tour through Amsterdam's picturesque canals and a visit to the Rijksmuseum, enriching the learning process with aesthetic beauty and cultural significance. Notable speakers include Michaël Vrijhof, known for his humanitarian architectural work with displaced communities; Niels Hofstee, a structural engineer focused on responsive design; and Nuria Muñoz Arce, a biophilic design consultant dedicated to integrating well-being into architecture. The symposium also honors the contributions of former colleagues who have shaped the event's foundation, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future gatherings. Overall, the Global Symposium on Evidence-based and Holistic Design aims to create a collaborative space for sharing innovative ideas and practical tools that can transform the built environment into one that actively supports health and well-being.