Milan Architects Launch Digital 'States General' for Post-Pandemic Rebuilding

The Order of Architects of Milan has organized a three-day digital event called the 'States General of Milanese Architects' to rethink the profession and urban spaces after the COVID-19 crisis. Taking place on May 27, 28, and 29, 2020, the initiative focuses on five priority themes: new economies to support businesses and professionals, construction site safety, digitalization of public administration processes, public works programming, and a new relationship between architects and society. The event is open to all, not just architects, and aims to gather ideas and proposals through participatory digital workshops. The concluding session on May 29 will present the outcomes to citizens, public and private partners, politicians, opinion makers, and professional representatives. Councilor Marialisa Santi, who oversees the event's organization, stated that the pandemic has accelerated existing processes and highlighted underlying issues, but also presents an opportunity for fundamental innovations that would be difficult to achieve in ordinary times. The initiative is part of a broader strategy by Milan's mayor Beppe Sala, who has identified mobility, culture, green spaces, infrastructure, events, tactical urbanism, and design as key drivers for the city's recovery.