RIBA CEO to deliver opening address at the Sustainable Design Forum 2026

The Sustainable Design Collective (SDC) has announced that Dr Valerie Vaughan-Dick MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), will deliver the opening address at the Sustainable Design Forum 2026. Dr Vaughan-Dick, appointed CEO in January 2023, brings extensive experience in leadership, regeneration and organisational transformation. She is the first woman to hold the role, and among the first from a more diverse leadership background, reflecting a broader shift towards greater inclusivity within the profession.

Her address will set the context for the day’s programme, exploring both the opportunities and challenges in advancing sustainability across the built environment. Her participation highlights the important role of industry leadership in supporting progress — spanning environmental responsibility, social value, and inclusivity.

Now in its fourth year, the Sustainable Design Forum will take place on Thursday 23 April 2026 at Crypt on the Green, Clerkenwell. Curated by SDC — a voluntary think tank of architects, designers and specifiers — the Forum is designed to foster meaningful, discussion-led engagement across the workplace design community.

The programme will include presentations, panel discussions and interactive sessions, including the Forum’s established ‘speed dating’ roundtables. New elements this year include ‘A Masters in Sustainability’, featuring Dr Asif Din, Dr Joe Croft and Sam Allen in a rapid-response format with audience participation.

Contributions from leading practices will include M Moser & Associates, presenting their ‘Living Lab’ project, and John Robertson Architects, exploring the opportunities and value of retrofit, and the collaborative ‘Circular Hub’ project from MCM, FutureWorks and Nest Living.

Founded in 2022 by Harsha Kotak and Joanna Knight, SDC brings together over 30 leading A&D practices as members.

The Forum runs from 10:00am to 6:00pm, followed by networking drinks. Tickets are limited and available in advance: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/sustainable-design-forum-2026-tickets-1982184616547?aff=ebdsoporgprofile