Overview

The BIG Architecture Festival 2025, one of South-East Europe’s most influential architectural gatherings, is set to take place on May 22–23 at the scenic coastal venue of Grando, Obala 10 in Portorož, Slovenia. This two-day event will unite renowned architects, interior designers, and design thinkers from across the region and beyond.

The festival offers a powerful platform for progressive professionals to explore and exchange ideas on the future of the built environment, with a program that honors architectural innovation, excellence, and responsibility.

Theme of the Year

The 2025 edition explores the theme:
“Common Sense / Space / Responsibility… in Architecture”
This theme invites participants to reflect on how architecture can respond meaningfully to environmental, ethical, and societal demands. The sessions will emphasize responsible, sustainable, and context-sensitive approaches to design, pushing boundaries while respecting place, community, and purpose.

Why You Should Attend

• Engage with global leaders in architecture and interior design.

• Participate in debates on urgent architectural topics, from AI ethics to climate-resilient design.

• Gain insight into pioneering projects and practices from across the globe.

• Network with professionals, academics, and creatives in an inspiring setting.

• Experience thought-provoking keynotes and panels curated to challenge and motivate.

Keynote Speakers

This year’s lineup includes celebrated figures from across continents, known for their cutting-edge work and intellectual contributions to the field:

• Melike Altinisik, Founder of MAA Architects

• Shicong Cao, Founder of DataDrivenAEC

• Huang Huaihai, Deputy Chief Architect at CSWADI, China

• Jan Mach & Jan Vondrák, Co-founders of Mjölk architekti (Czech Republic)

• Martin Rauch, Founder of Lehm Ton Erde (Austria)

Their lectures and panels will explore a wide range of pressing issues—from circular construction and adaptive reuse to the integration of AI in design practices.

Program Highlights

• Inspiring keynote addresses by internationally recognized architects

• Panel discussions on sustainability, responsibility, and future materials

• Exploration of AI’s role in architecture and its ethical dimensions

• Case studies on contextual architecture and adaptive reuse

• Opportunities for networking and professional development

A Hub for Innovation and Dialogue

Beyond presentations and talks, BIG Architecture Festival is a unique space for sharing ideas, challenges, and solutions in the built environment. It encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration and invites the architectural community to reimagine how we shape our cities, homes, and public spaces with purpose and accountability.