To enhance exchanges in the field of architecture and to share professional knowledge, the first Architectural Biennial Beijing (ABB2004) has been scheduled for this fall, from September 26 to October 6, in Beijing.

"We are trying to provide a platform for the development of the Chinese architecture industry, and to build a bridge between Chinese architects and developers and their counterparts abroad," said Luo Li, secretary general of the organizing committee of ABB2004.

"We also hope that it will arouse public awareness of developments in architecture, the beauty of architecture, and, in particular, of the role of the profession in making our cities beautiful," said Luo.

In the past two decades, China has been dubbed "the largest construction site in the world," a reference both to the number of building projects and the speed of construction.

Building construction has been enjoying a boom particularly since China became a member of the WTO and Beijing was named host of the 2008 Olympic Games.

What kinds of architecture can best meet the needs of the country's development has aroused heated debate both in architecture circles and among the public.

The biennial will highlight new concepts in architectural creation, advanced technology and new building materials. It will be a gathering place for architects, engineers, interior designers, landscape architects, urban planners, students and teachers from art schools and developers, as well as decision makers.

The biennial will feature works of international and Chinese master architects and Chinese architecture students, as well as works on city planning, community art and architecture, interior design, public spaces and the urban environment, and new building materials and technology. A series of forums on architectural culture will also be held.

According to the organizing committee, 30 world noted master architects and 60 top Chinese architects will take part in the biennial.

"It will give those who attend a chance to meet professionals from different disciplines and to learn about new concepts, technology and latest developments in architecture," Luo said.

Prior to the biennial, three forums were held in May and June: "Building Materials and the Architectural Revolution," "Urban Planning and Landscape Design," and "Architecture/Non architecture" (featuring works of young architects and students).

There will be a special award for those who have given special consideration to the regional cultural heritage while engaged in their work.

The biennial is jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, the China Architectural Culture Center of the Ministry of Construction and Beijing Zhihuida Culture Development Co Ltd.

(China Daily June 29, 2004)