Thessaloniki, Greece 06 October 2025
The Technical Chamber of Greece/Central Macedonia Section (TCG/CMS) and the Architects’ Association of Thessaloniki celebrated World Architecture Day, dedicated to the theme “Design for Strength”, at Islachane in the city center. The choice of venue was no coincidence: the 19th century School of Arts and Crafts for Orphans has been transformed into a space of culture, memory and creativity — a building that has withstood the test of time , blending historical memory with contemporary cultural activity, while embodying the principles of resilience and inclusion. Keynote speakers highlighted that the TCG/CMS, together with the Municipality and the Ephorate of Antiquities, continues to champion the protection of the urban environment. They emphasized that World Architecture Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the role of architecture in shaping sustainable societies. Speakers also underlined that Architecture is not merely an art or a science; it is the way in which we live, create and dream within the cities and spaces we inhabit.
In Build magazine featured on World Architecture Day, Mr. Dimitris Xinomilakis, President of the Panhellenic Union of Architects, sent his message to the Greek architectural community.
Given that this year’s World Architecture Day’s message was “Design for Strength”, aiming to address contemporary urban challenges amid the climate crisis, Mr. Xinomilakis invited architects to reflect on their crucial role in shaping livable, high-quality environments while remaining mindful of the need to preserve Greece’s rich architectural heritage.
Additionally, Mrs. Fani Vavili, President of the Hellenic Section of the International Union of Architects (UIA), speaking in the same feature emphasized on the pressing challenges that the architects are facing today.
Mrs. Vavyli commented that the major challenges for architects in our century lie in tackling climate change, ensuring social and environmental sustainability on a global scale, and embracing innovation through new digital tools that can elevate our profession. “In an era marked by tensions and conflicts, we architects must demonstrate that collaboration can drive us toward our shared goals of sustainability, resilience, and quality within thriving societies”, she added.
Read the BUILD magazine here (only available in Greek).