Drawing inspiration in particular from the ideas of the Luxembourgish architect Léon Krier, the 10x6 event highlighted an approach to architecture centred on intellectual design and urban planning. The presentations emphasised the importance of anticipating the societal, environmental and geopolitical changes that will shape the city of tomorrow. Whilst economic constraints remain an unavoidable reality, the speakers called for a broader and, at times, more idealistic vision of the profession, capable of opening up new perspectives.

Finally, in keeping with the spirit of an industry where careers unfold over the long term, the concept of ‘Gen Z’ has been approached with flexibility. This is a way of highlighting not only the emergence of new talent, but also a generation that is beginning to take a step back and reflect on its own achievements.

Alice Prum (M3 Architects) opened the discussion by highlighting the disconnect between academic training and the reality of the building site, which is characterised by the unexpected. She advocated a practice in which the act of ‘breaking through’ became a means of revealing the qualities of an existing building, whilst emphasising the importance of the collective as a space for shared learning. “Breaking through isn’t always about demolition. Sometimes it’s simply an opportunity to change the angle from which we view a space, to open up our perspective rather than the wall.”

In the same critical vein, Philip Nathan, founder of the firm in 2001, championed a form of architecture that is socially engaged, focused on the ecological transition and regional resilience. The winner of landmark projects in Luxembourg and an internationally acclaimed architect, he emphasised that design also involves questioning established practices and collective memory. This approach is also evident in Céline Zimmer, whose commitment to cooperative housing has led to the creation of a dedicated organisation.

Constructive innovation and environmental responsibility

Technical innovation was another recurring theme of the evening. Bujar Hasani (founder of ODA Architects) has established himself as one of the leading figures in this transformation, exploring 3D printing, geopolymer materials and hybrid systems. Through his projects, including Luxembourg’s first 3D-printed building, he has championed—with humour and a sense of perspective—an approach aimed at reducing the environmental footprint.

On a related note, Ivan Badiarov (Badiarov Architects) emphasised the need to simplify often complex processes by drawing on regulatory strategies and digital tools. His talk also offered a more unexpected perspective, drawing a parallel between architecture and violin-making, two disciplines shaped by precision and the passing on of knowledge.

A collective effort, diverse backgrounds and a ‘Next Gen’ spirit

Beyond individual perspectives, the evening highlighted the role and power of the collective and the intersecting life stories. Jackie Ley illustrated this dynamic within Metaform by highlighting the importance of training and bringing together a new generation of architects committed to sustainable development. An ambition shared by Hatim Chebli and Edith Nothar, who spoke candidly about their roles at Beng Architects, which recently celebrated its 35th^and anniversary, where collaborative governance and a focus on users shape their practice, thereby broadening the scope to a more general message that essentially says: “There is no single model of what makes a perfect architect… so just come as you are!”

The trajectories of Maxence Dupuis, at Moreno’s, and the duo Antoine Iung–Gianni Bartolomeo, at a+a, also spoke of this wealth of experience, balancing loyalty to the agencies with an international outlook. Finally, Philippe Bosch and Antoine Bitaine, speaking on behalf of Made Architecture, emphasised that the diversity of projects and the ability to adapt remained at the heart of the practice, embodying a balance between experience and generational renewal.

As the talks progressed, one thing became clear: this ‘Next Gen’ of architects is no longer content simply to design buildings. They are experimenting, collaborating and challenging the status quo, with the ambition of permanently redefining the boundaries of the discipline. It is worth recalling the mantra of the Iung-Bartolomeo duo on the 10x6 stage: ‘The life of tomorrow is already here.’ The message is clear: contemporary architecture incorporates sustainable, technological and ecological solutions and, beyond a utopian futuristic vision, its concrete and immediate application can contribute to the well-being of users.