Post by Gerhard Abel

𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗻 – exploring how design and architecture can truly shape what’s next. After joining the very first #SWNXT_ Shape What’s Next journey in London, I was grateful to be part of the latest edition in Copenhagen, initiated by Philipp Kirnbauer and his team.   As a futurist and co-initiator of the Future Experience Forum, I am always curious to see how design and architecture unfold in a broader cultural and urban context. Copenhagen continues to impress me: a city where urban fabric and public space are treated with care and love, where sustainable traffic and high-quality environments set new global benchmarks. Twenty-five years after my first visit, it is striking to see how this mindset has only grown stronger – when places are designed with love, people take care of them in return.   What inspired me most was the seamless connection between hospitality, community, and urban life. From world-class experiences at Alchemist to Absalon, transformative hubs like THORAVEJ 29, or conversations with practices such as GROUP NAO , to community spaces and everyday places like local restaurants or bakeries – the city radiates usability, belonging, and quality of life. The chance to exchange ideas with global design leaders such as BIG - Bjarke Ingels Group highlighted how diverse actors, each in their own way, contribute to shaping future urban and social environments.   This learning journey has confirmed for me once again that architecture and design are not ends in themselves. They are tools to foster connectivity, sustainability, and ultimately, a better future. At PLANET architects, this is exactly what drives us: taking future topics seriously and transforming inspiration into action. A big thank you to Philipp for making this journey possible – full of inspiring people and places!   Thank you to everyone who joined – Philipp Kirnbauer, Laura Hanowski , Johannes R.., Lars Wurm, Monica Incardona, Jürgen Holler OFFORA GmbH, Peter Kampel, Petra Gregorits, Vincent Krumpel, Johanna Wohlrab and Laura Camilli– Signe Jungersted 喜娜, Peter Rømer Hansen it was a true pleasure to learn and share with you. 🚀🚀🚀