A Visionary Platform for Innovation and “Common Sense” in Architecture

As one of the most influential architectural events in South-East Europe, the BIG Architecture Festival 2025 will bring together the leading voices in architecture and interior design from the region and beyond. Taking place on May 22–23 at the stunning coastal venue of Grando, Obala 10 in Portorož, Slovenia, the festival serves as a platform for visionary professionals, fostering dialogue on the future of the built environment while celebrating architectural excellence and innovation. Established under the BIG SEE initiative, the festival has evolved into a key meeting point for industry leaders, decision-makers, and emerging talents, providing a space for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and recognition of groundbreaking projects.

International Conference: Common Sense in Architecture

At the heart of the festival is the international conference, which will explore the theme of Common Sense / Space / Responsibility… in Architecture. Leading architects and thought leaders will engage in discussions on responsible, sustainable, and context-driven design approaches. The curated program will address pressing global issues, including climate resilience, circular construction, adaptive reuse, and the ethical implications of AI in architectural practice. The conference aims to redefine how common sense principles can make contemporary architecture more socially and environmentally conscious.

Debates Exploring the Future of Architecture: AI, Urban Visions, and Global Platforms

The BIG Architecture Festival 2025 will spark critical conversations through a series of thought-provoking debates that explore the evolving role of architecture in a rapidly changing world. From cutting-edge AI-driven design processes to the future of cities and the global representation of SEE countries, these discussions will bring together leading experts, architects, and urban planners to address key challenges and opportunities.

The debate Beyond Algorithms: The Human Touch in AI–Enhanced Architecture will examine the growing role of artificial intelligence in architectural design, highlighting both its potential and limitations. While AI offers efficiency, optimization, and new creative possibilities, the discussion will focus on maintaining architectural diversity, cultural identity, and ethical considerations in the face of automation.

Urban transformation will take center stage in Envisioning a City: Future Perspectives from North and South, curated by Selçuk Avcı, where city architects from different parts of the SEE region will present their visions for resilient, sustainable urban development. The discussion will compare strategies shaped by varying climatic, economic, and cultural contexts, addressing challenges such as climate adaptation, public space revitalization, and the integration of smart technologies.

Turning to the global stage, SEE in Venice–Venice at BIG Architecture: Synergies for 2027 will assess the participation of 21 SEE countries in the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. Experts and national representatives will reflect on their contributions and explore ways to enhance regional collaboration for a stronger, more unified presence in 2027.

Finally, Shaping the Future of World Expos: SEE Countries Beyond Osaka 2025 will examine how SEE nations can maximize their impact at EXPO 2025 Osaka and future EXPOS. The discussion will highlight architectural innovation, national branding, and strategies for increasing regional visibility in these influential global events.

Exhibition SEE the Future: Reimagining the Cities of Tomorrow The Cities of the Future exhibition at BIG Architecture 2025 will showcase visionary ideas for the evolution of urban life in outh-East Europe and beyond. Architects and students from across the region will present innovative perspectives on how cities can adapt to More than a showcase, SEE the Future is a collaborative platform where new ideas take shape, fostering dialogue and redefining the architectural landscape of tomorrow.

Industry Innovation, Networking, and  Professional Exchange

With over 100 exhibitors, the trade show will serve as a hub for industry professionals seeking the latest innovations in architecture, interior design, materials, and sustainable solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge products, technologies, and services that are shaping the future of the built environment.

With over 3,000 architects, designers, and decision-makers expected, the BIG Architecture Festival 2025 offers unparalleled networking opportunities to forge new partnerships and collaborate on groundbreaking ideas.

BIG Architecture & Interior Design Awards 2025

The festival will also celebrate the best in architecture and interior design with the prestigious BIG Architecture & Interior Design Awards 2025.

BIG SEE, originally launched as a platform to explore the creative potential of South-East Europe, has grown into a global movement recognizing outstanding achievements in architecture, design, and beyond.

The 2025 edition features a prestigious panel of jury members, including influential figures such as Juergen Mayer H., Pascale Sablan, Paul Robbrecht, Fernando Rodríguez, Amin Taha, and Kentaro Takeguchi, ensuring a rigorous evaluation process and a celebration of groundbreaking architectural contributions.

The two days of the festival will present more than 600 projects and topics.

Applications for the Awards are open until April 13, 2025.

A Global Stage for Creativity and Excellence

As the built environment faces unprecedented challenges, the BIG Architecture Festival 2025 aims to inspire architects and designers to embrace common sense, shared spaces, and collective responsibility in their work.

Participation in the BIG Architecture Festival 2025 is free of charge with an invitation from the organizers. More information about invitations and the program can be found at bigsee.eu/visit-big-architecture.