When architecture is discussed as part of the transformation of any city today—whether the rebirth of an ancient urban center or the rapid transformation of a new global capital—it is often characterized as a symptom as much as a cause. Broader political, economic, or cultural shifts—from a civil war to the development of a new industry to the burgeoning of an art scene—are understood as the drivers of urban change of which architecture is merely one physical reflection. The discussion will explore and articulate the active roles that architecture and design themselves can play as agents of urban transformation. Confirmed speakers include: **Amale Andraos**, Dean, Columbia GSAPP **Barry Bergdoll**, MoMA / Columbia University **Nicolai Ouroussoff**, Columbia GSAPP **Julian Rose**, Formlessfinder / Columbia GSAPP **Tony Salamé**, Aïsthi Foundation **William Sawaya**, Sawaya & Moroni **Hanan Sayed Worrell**, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi **Hala Wardé**, HW Architecture / Ateliers Jean Nouvel The panel is followed by opening reception for installation by artist **Danh Vo** at 7:30pm. Please contact Aïshti Foundation to RSVP: 01 99 11 11 ext. 141 Co-Hosted by Aïsthi Foundation and Columbia GSAPP under the patronage of the Minister of Culture of Lebanon, Dr. Ghattas Khoury.