2026
Maktab/Mektep: Central Asian Summer School On Architecture And Spatial Research
Kazakhstan, Aktau

Public foundation "Urban Forum Kazakhstan"
Across Central Asia, rapid urbanization, climate pressures, and the legacy of extractive industries are putting strain on both natural environments and built infrastructures. Cities such as Aktau face challenges of water scarcity, extreme climate, and environmental degradation, creating an urgent need for architectural and spatial practices that are sustainable, culturally grounded, and responsive to local conditions. Although sustainability is gaining attention at the policy level, young architects and designers often lack access to interdisciplinary training, environmentally informed design methods, and traditional knowledge adapted to the region’s climate. This limits the professional community’s ability to translate ecological goals into practice. The project addresses these needs by creating a summer school where emerging practitioners can study and experiment with sustainable architectural approaches directly in Aktau. By integrating local materials, traditional spatial practices, and contemporary ecological design, and by providing a platform for regional and international exchange, the project strengthens practical competencies and supports a broader shift toward environmentally responsible, context-sensitive architectural practice in Central Asia.
Overall objective:
Raising awareness among the general public—including professional and academic communities, representatives of local and regional authorities—about the principles of sustainable architecture based on the use of local materials and knowledge, as well as inclusive and environmentally responsible approaches to urban space across Central Asia.

The aims of the project:

  • Exchange knowledge on responsible, sustainable, and context-sensitive approaches to spatial research and architectural practice, focusing on environmentally friendly methods and traditional techniques relevant to Central Asia.
    1
  • Promoting the integration of sustainable and inclusive design practices through public events that strengthen awareness among the professional community, local and regional authorities, and residents about ecological and culturally grounded architectural approaches.
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  • Develop a site-specific design proposal for Aktau city that demonstrates the application of sustainable and traditional methods in practice and present this solution for local community.
    3

The main activities of the project are:

  • Central Asian Summer School (Aktau, 10-25 June 2026)

  • Public lecture by a specialist from Germany (Aktau, 12 June 2026)

  • Public presentation of the Central Asian Summer School outcomes for participants, partners, and the local community (Aktau, 25 June 2026)

  • Information support of the Central Asian Summer School (March-June 2026)