One of the key moments of the first edition of TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership in Action is the exhibition, Future Proof by Foster + Partners, presented for the first time in Romania. Recognized worldwide for emblematic projects on six continents and built projects in over 45 countries, Foster + Partners will bring to the Palace of Culture in Iasi 30 models, 3D modulations of representative international projects.
Palace of Culture, Iași, România ─── April 7 – May 3, 2026
This exhibition presents Foster + Partners’ longstanding approach to designing for the future, tracing ideas that have shaped the practice since the 1960s. It highlights early commitments to environmental responsibility, adaptable design, and the use of technology to improve the built environment. Through photographs and models, the exhibition outlines how these principles have guided projects at every scale, from individual buildings to city plans.
Across six decades, the practice explored how architecture could respond to material resources and changing social needs. Early projects investigated ways to reduce energy use, recycle water and waste, and integrate renewable power. Although these ideas are common in contemporary design, they were unusual at the time and anticipated many current environmental standards. This emphasis on resource efficiency and user wellbeing formed the basis of an approach that continues to evolve.
The practice has consistently questioned conventional building types. Workspaces, airport terminals, tall buildings and cultural institutions were reconsidered to improve circulation, daylight, structural efficiency and long-term flexibility. At the same time, work on historic buildings shows how future and past can come together to elevate each other, while maintaining their cultural value. Across this range, the focus has been on practical solutions that support better working, living and public environments.
Since the 1990s, Foster + Partners has designed numerous contemporary additions to significant historic structures. These have sensitively extended the buildings, broadening their potential uses, improving readability and the capacity to attract new users.
Designing at an urban scale is a complex undertaking, whether it involves city masterplanning, neighbourhood regeneration, or new public placemaking. Success is hard-won, measured not only by what is built, but how it is used and how it benefits a community. Our integrated design teams bring together a broad range of expertise and experience to tackle the unique challenges that the urban environment presents.
During the TILIA – Today’s Ideas and Leadership in Action summit, the exhibition will be complemented by a masterclass hosted by the Foster + Partners team, offering architects, urban planners, and decision-makers the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue about applying these principles to real-world projects.
For the first time in Romania, Charles Montgomery, author of “Happy City” and one of the 100 most influential urban planners in the world, is coming to TILIA-Romanian Cities Summit. Register for free now, places are limited.
