Decision-makers from real estate, architecture, urban development, investment, industry and the public sector gathered at Woods Bagot’s London studio to connect, forge partnerships, and share practical approaches to placemaking. Key topics of discussion included best practice examples of innovation and regulatory initiatives, ongoing opportunities and challenges facing the European real estate market, and how we can create truly liveable cities. 

Woods Bagot Principal Florian Frotscher gave a keynote address at the event about modern heritage. Here are three of his primary talking points he shared with attendees:

1. Heritage is not solely about preservation; it is about creating a future legacy. 

Florian challenged traditional notions of heritage, arguing that heritage is as much about looking forward as it is about looking back. Drawing on Woods Bagot’s track record of restoring historic buildings, he emphasised the responsibility of architects to create places that can adapt, endure, and remain relevant for future generations, becoming the heritage assets of tomorrow. Florian also referenced renowned Italian architect and designer Aldo Rossi’s belief in creating monuments, including his observation that “…the monument possesses a permanence which outlives the economic and political cycles of the city,” by stating that architects should aspire to create buildings with the longevity and adaptability of monuments.

2. Successful cities are built around meaningful places.

A key theme from Florian’s presentation was the distinction he made between location and place. While location provides convenience and accessibility, Florian described that place creates meaning, experience, and attachment, highlighting the importance of designing destinations that people actively choose to visit, work from, and connect with.

3. Long-term value is realised through adaptability, identity, and belonging.

Florian also emphasised that the most successful buildings are those that outlive economic cycles and changing occupier needs. He made clear that buildings must be designed robustly to allow for alterations and changes of use over time, while fostering pride, community, and a sense of belonging. In Florian’s view, buildings create lasting value when people feel emotionally connected to them and when they continue to matter long after the first tenant has moved on. In fact, he suggested that the next measure of value in real estate will not be commercial performance, but the degree to which people feel attached to a place.

“The next currency that will create value in buildings, especially office buildings, is ensuring that people feel attached. A place still matters when the first tenant has left and it can still be used, still maintains its value, and continues to create attachment and belonging,” says Florian. “Our responsibility as architects is to create buildings with the resilience, character, and optimism to evolve over time, while constantly enriching the lives of the people and cities they serve.” 

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Lee Lodge
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