The panel ‘Tropical Architecture’ was held in the context of COP30 in Belém do Pará, Brazil. It brought together different voices in architecture and sustainability for a discussion on the role of architecture in addressing the climate crisis and the urgency of construction solutions adapted to tropical climates. The debate featured Mattia Joulia, Marcelo Rosenbaum, Natalia Figueredo and David Fontcuberta, and was moderated by Paula Szejnfeld Sirkis.

Invited by Paula Szejnfeld Sirkis and Marcelo Rosenbaum, Natalia Figueredo took part in the panel to share her perspective as an Amazonian architect, urbanist and researcher, contributing reflections grounded in practical experience. Her participation brought to the centre of the discussion the importance of design practices aligned with local ecological systems and with knowledge emerging from the territory and its communities.

The panel explored how the principles of Tropical Modern Architecture can inspire contemporary responses to climate change. Drawing from different geographical and professional contexts, the participants highlighted the need to update this legacy by articulating technological innovation, environmental responsibility and deeply rooted cultural practices.

The event took place at AquaPraça, a floating plaza located on the Guamá River, in Belém. The structure was transported from Venice, where it was part of the 2025 Biennale Architettura, curated by Carlo Ratti Associati in collaboration with Höweler + Yoon, symbolically reinforcing the connection between global debates and local contexts.