This week's architectural news covers a range of projects responding to the constantly changing needs of cities, from adapting existing structures to creating new public and cultural spaces. While Antalya prepares to host COP31, projects in Rotterdam and Pittsburgh focus on renovating established cultural institutions, whereas developments in Copenhagen, Chicago, and Tbilisi explore new approaches to leisure, public access, and urban regeneration. Concurrently, Foster + Partners has presented plans for a multifunctional complex in Yerevan, VG13 Architects won a competition for a new stadium and sports district in Zagreb, and Aria Property Group showcased residential and public sectors in Brisbane ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.
Climate Action and Adaptation of Existing Structures
As Antalya prepares to host COP31, which will take place from November 9 to 20, 2026, the conference also draws attention to how existing venues can accommodate major international events. SP Architects is adapting the old EXPO 2016 park for the meeting, combining existing infrastructure with new permanent and temporary constructions. The site will feature a Blue Zone for official UN climate negotiations and a Green Zone for public events, and after the conference, the venue must remain usable for fairs, shows, and other activities.
The adaptation of existing infrastructure is also evident in recent projects concerning cultural institutions. In Rotterdam, Mecanoo unveiled new renderings for the renovation of the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum, which has been closed since 2019 due to maintenance issues, leaks, and fire hazards. The project integrates the restoration of three historic buildings with changes to circulation, exhibition spaces, and visitor facilities.
In Pittsburgh, AD—WO was selected to renovate the Heinz Architectural Center at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh, where galleries are planned to be rethought and spaces created for studying collections, research, and public education. Despite differences in scale and purpose, all three projects examine how buildings and existing sites can be adapted to meet evolving institutional and public needs.