Explore the world of architecture with A is for Architecture, a podcast hosted by Ambrose Gillick. Each episode delves into the design, history and social signi...
Dorina Pojani: Power, prestige and inequality in new capital cities.
In this episode of A is for Architecture, I was joined by the University of Queensland’s Dr Dorina Pojani to discuss her book Trophy Cities: A Feminist Perspective on New Capitals (Edward Elgar Publishing 2021). We explore how new capital cities –Brasilia, Canberra, Abuja, Sejong, Astana and even Washington DC – are conceived of as totalized projects, dominant visions competing for prestige through iconic architecture and mega-projects - often at the expense of local communities.
From gentrification and political power to inequality and urban branding, this conversation uncovers who really benefits from these grand visions. It's a banger, believe.
Dorina can be found at her workplace, and on LinkedIn. Trophy Cities is linked above.
🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform for more discussions on architecture and urbanism!
#UrbanDesign #TrophyCities #Architecture #CityBranding #Gentrification #Sustainability #Urbanism #DorinaPojani #AisForArchitecture #CityPlanning #Inequality
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Music credits: Bruno Gillick
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50:35
Álvaro Sevilla-Buitrago: Planning, the commons and resistance.
In this episode of A is for Architecture, I spoke to Álvaro Sevilla-Buitrago, associate professor of urban planning at the School of Architecture, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, about his book Against the Commons: A Radical History of Urban Planning (University of Minnesota Press 2022). Challenging conventional ideas of shared urban space, Alvaro explores how planning has historically been used as a tool of enclosure, dispossession, and control—shaping cities to serve elite interests rather than fostering true commoning.
We discuss the historical and contemporary nature of commons as spaces that represent marginalisation, but its resolution through collective action and solidarity. We discuss how urban development has often restricted collective life, from the privatization of land to the suppression of grassroots alternatives, reflecting on historical and contemporary struggles over public space, offering insights into how radical urbanism can resist enclosure and reclaim the city for all.
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of planning, power, and resistance in the built environment.
Alvaro can be found on X, and on his personal website and on Academia. Against the Commons is linked above.
🎧 Listen now & subscribe for more discussions on architecture and urbanism! #UrbanPlanning #Commons #RightToTheCity #RadicalUrbanism #PublicSpace #PeoplePower
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Music credits: Bruno Gillick
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1:01:46
Pablo Meninato: Informal settlements and social change.
In this episode of A is for Architecture, I spoke with Pablo Meninato, Associate Professor of Architecture at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture, Temple University, Philadelphia, about Urban Labyrinths: Informal Settlements, Architecture, and Social Change in Latin America (Routledge 2024), co-authored with Gregory Marinic.
Exploring the complexities of informal urbanism, Pablo discusses how self-built settlements shape cities, challenge conventional architectural narratives, and drive social transformation. From favelas to barriadas, we examine resilience, adaptation, and policy implications for equitable urban development. Tune in for insights on architecture, urban design, and Latin America’s evolving cityscapes.
Pablo is on can be found on the Temple University website, on X, Instagram and LinkedIn. The book is linked above.
🎧 Listen now & subscribe for more discussions on architecture and urbanism! #UrbanDesign #InformalSettlements #Architecture #LatinAmerica
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Music credits: Bruno Gillick
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1:04:22
Franca Trubiano: Theory, making and the ethical architect.
For this episode of A is for Architecture I spoke with Dr Franca Trubiano, Associate Professor of Architecture at the Weitzman School of Design, University of Pennsylvania about her book, Building Theories: Architecture as the Art of Building, published by Routledge in 2022.
Building Theories presents an historical evolution of architectural theory, tracing how ideas about building have been shaped by cultural, technological, and material advancements. It highlights the interplay between theory and practice, emphasizing that construction is not merely a technical endeavour but a critical component of architectural expression. Franca underscores the importance of materials and their performative qualities, examining how they inform design and enrich architectural meaning.
Franca can be found on her personal website, on the UPenn website, on Instagram and LinkedIn. The book is linked above.
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Music credits: Bruno Gillick
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1:09:55
Bernard Tschumi: Poetics, ethics, cities and spaces.
For the first episode of A is for Architecture’s 2025 offer, I was very lucky to be joined by the great architect, writer, theorist and educator, Bernard Tschumi. We discuss, among other things, his most recent book, Event-Cities 5: Poetics (MIT Press 2024).
Globally celebrated for his innovative contributions to contemporary architecture and urbanism, Professor Tschumi has gained international acclaim through both his theoretical works, like The Manhattan Transcripts (1976-1981) and Architecture and Disjunction (1994), as well as iconic projects like the Parc de la Villette in Paris (1982-1998). Tschumi’s designs challenge traditional notions of form and function, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between space, movement, and event. A former Dean of the GSAPP at Columbia University, he has authored several influential books, including the Event-Cities series (1994-2024), cementing his status as a leading voice in architectural thought.
This was a really special recording for me, and a bit of a dream really. Bernard Tschumi! Unreal.
Tschumi Architects can be found here are on Instagram here. The book is linked above.
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Music credits: Bruno Gillick
Explore the world of architecture with A is for Architecture, a podcast hosted by Ambrose Gillick. Each episode delves into the design, history and social significance of the built environment, making architecture accessible to everyone. Through engaging conversations with industry experts, scholars and practitioners, the podcast unpacks the creative and practical sides of architecture, from urban planning to sustainable design. Whether you're a professional, student, or design enthusiast, A is for Architecture offers fresh insights on how buildings shape society and inspire innovation.
Ireland