Public Lecture by Prof. Martin BECHTHOLD, Harvard University
On 23 April 2026, FCE hosted a Public Lecture titled “Architecture and Material Presence”, delivered by Prof. Martin BECHTHOLD, Kumagai Professor of Architectural Technology and Academic Dean of the Graduate School of Design at Harvard University. The lecture attracted over 50 participants, including students, alumni, and FCE academics.
In this thought-provoking lecture, Prof. Bechthold examined the fundamental role of materiality in architecture and the built environment, highlighting how materials influence people’s perception of space even when they are not consciously noticed. Drawing on a series of studies, he demonstrated that, despite the growing ubiquity of digital media, materials remain central to spatial experience. Year One Architecture students demonstrated significant interest during the Q&A session, prompting fruitful discussions with Prof. Bechthold through their thoughtful questions.
The lecture offered a valuable opportunity to engage with cutting-edge ideas at the intersection of architecture, technology and human experience. It also served as an inspiring prelude to the official establishment of the new Department of Architecture on 1 July 2026.
