AZA18
Luyanda Mpahlwa says that as an attendee since the event ’ s inception , he has no doubt that AZA is an incomparable platform for dialogue . “ AZA allows architects to share ideas and look at broader issues around the built environment both in South Africa as well as from an international perspective in terms of the challenges faced . It is the one conference that has managed to attract a diverse range of participants , with particular mention here of young architects and architectural students who become involved in the search for solutions .”
Furthermore , he says , AZA promotes the broader architectural environment . “ It is incumbent upon us to tackle and address social challenges and we need to share scrutiny from public in a forum that allows discussion and resolution . The AZA conference is largely followed by a younger generation of architects , particularly students . I would like to see older generations participating to enrich the discussions for the benefit of the profession .”
He particularly likes the fact that the event transcendsthe pure architecture aspect in terms of inclusion of art and performing art , as well as with exhibitions of built environment suppliers ’ offerings . “ This allows all stakeholders to engage in multidisciplinary fashion . We envisage that by integrating South Africa with the rest of the continent , we will see an elevationof the profile of conference based on its unique flavour .”
With regard to reimaging the African city he feels that we need to carefully consider the zoning regulations of cities wherebythere is more densification of inner cities which would make residential accommodation more available and affordable for younger people and citizens on the lower end of the economy .“ This will contribute towards more accessible , inclusive and vibrant inner cities exemplified by developments like Maboneng .”
“ This means that we will have to bring developers on board to allow a coherent and broader integration . Young professionals should be able to live within the city and not have to travel large distances . So how do we in AZA engage in a positive way to indicate the role of architects in this repositioning ? Do we have enough architects involved in development themselves who can partner with sympathetic developers ? These are all questions which can be answered by the AZA forum .”
46 AFRICAN DESIGN MAGAZINE © | APRIL 2018