Sun Shines on Architecture

© Simon Pracchinetti

The Solar Biennale advocates a holistic approach in which solar design plays a central role. This current "solar movement" is reinventing architecture and urban planning on a global scale, putting the sun at the heart of our priorities. The exhibition looks at how this source of energy, whether used passively or actively, is becoming a real architectural feature that will enhance any renovation or new-build project.

21.03 - 21.06.2025 Sun Shines on Architecture
19.03.2025 Opening day

Archi­zoom offers a unique explor­a­tion of contem­por­ary archi­tec­ture. With a focus on research and innov­a­tion, this programme of exhib­i­tions and lectures brings together theory and the public’s exper­i­ence to forge together a sens­it­ive and crit­ical view of our built culture. Located on the EPFL campus, Archi­zoom fosters an ongo­ing dialogue between profes­sion­als, academ­ics and the general public.

For thou­sands of years, the rela­tion­ship between archi­tec­ture and the sun has profoundly shaped the design and construc­tion of build­ings. However, the integ­ra­tion of solar energy into the built envir­on­ment has remained rather marginal until recently.

While the sun was always right there—a source of power and beau­ty—will we have to wait until the fossil fuels have finally run out to turn to her? The Solar Bien­ni­al’s mani­festo affirms it: now, it’s her turn. You can’t simply plug the sun into the socket. A holistic approach to solar design is needed.

Prac­tical inform­a­tion