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International Architecture Biennale, Rotterdam

5th International Architecture Biennale

ROTTERDAM (NL) - Nowadays, the city seems almost forgotten from architectural practice, but the 5th edition of the International Architecture Biennale in Rotterdam (IABR) changes tracks and focuses on the making of the city. 'The 5th IABR, "Making City", is convinced that the city is our future,' and therefore we should focus on planning, design and politics.

The idea at the core of the Biennale also goes against the tide, because its programme delves through the years and touches upon the different editions of the Biennale in Rotterdam. Since 2010, the IABR has worked together with local authorities and partners on three long-term projects, in three different test sites: Rotterdam, Istanbul and Sao Paolo. The city of Rotterdam needs to reinvent its history through urban planning, Istanbul must trigger new development, and Sao Paolo strives to regulate its rapid and ongoing expansion. All three cases show how the urban pattern is able to change configuration and accommodate an erratic society.

This Biennale is both directed toward the exploration of international sites and focused on the Netherlands. The city of Rotterdam is constantly changing, which will be visible to the visitor thanks to multiple activities such as cycle tours, lectures and film screenings. Starting on 19 April 2012, events and exhibitions will last through the summer and take place at different locations. The Netherlands Architecture Institute (NAi) hosts an exhibition showing students' visions of future cities: 'Smart Cities – Parallel Cases 2'. At the Mini Mall, 'Design as Politics' reflects on the connection between city planning and political agendas.

Moreover, the use of different media is also worth thinking about; the 5th Biennale will not only be hosted in museums and institutions, but also on television shows, websites and via a radio broadcast.

Tuesday | 24 April | 2012 | Netherlands | Daria Ricchi