Architect and urban planner Prof. Dr.-Ing. Agnes Foerster has held the chair of Planning Theory and Urban Development at RWTH Aachen since 2018 and has been Dean of the Faculty of Architecture since 2025. She is the founder and partner of Studio | Stadt | Region in Munich, where she heads the urban development division. After studying architecture in Munich and Lausanne, she worked at the Technical University of Munich from 2005 to 2015 and completed her doctorate at the Chair of Spatial Development in 2014. Her areas of expertise include sustainable neighborhood, urban and regional development, participatory and transformative process design, and research into the impact of planning methods and planning tools.
Interview
How would you describe your vision for the ‘‘Spaces of Mobility’’ for the Munich Metropolitan Region in 2034 in three words?
Sensory diversity, sturdy footwear and neighborhood dialogue.
What do you see as the biggest mobility challenge facing the Munich Metropolitan Region?
Addressing the diverse needs of people with limited resources. Ensuring and enhancing quality of life in a wide range of everyday situations. Reducing travel distances and strengthening connections between people.
What motivated you to get involved in the IBA-M?
I have more interest in working with nuances and connections than with high-profile projects. I am curious about open-ended projects and processes. I’m motivated by the idea of creating a shared vision for the whole metropolitan region.
What unique perspective or expertise do you bring to the IBA-M?
The connection between science and practical applications, between physical and social spaces. Supporting bottom-up regional development by connecting stakeholders and projects. I have strong ties to the region, but also bring an outside perspective.
For me, the IBA is…
…swarm intelligence.