News / Architecture
What role can tall buildings play in the future of our city?
A new series of participatory debates begins on Wednesday with a lofty question.
Design West will host the first 6 O’Clock Session at The Architect bar on Narrow Quay, asking what role can tall buildings play in the future of Bristol.
Does building high provide answers post-Covid? Or does high-rise create more problems? And how do we avoid the design mistakes of the past?
is needed now More than ever
Design West are particularly keen to hear from anyone living in a tall building in Bristol, to bring their lived experience to the debate.
The panel at Wednesday’s event will include architects, civic activists and academics.

Beacon Tower and the Radisson Blu tower are recognisable elements of Bristol’s skyline – photo: Martin Booth
Design West director, Dr Anna Rutherford, said: “Design West are known for thought-provoking, popular events that inform people about the built and natural environment we live in.
“We’re delighted to open up the conversation further, with 6 O’Clock Sessions; a new series of cafe-style debates that blur the line between expert and audience, sharing the microphone for much-needed topical discussion on the future of our city.”
For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.designwest.org.uk/whats-on/tall-buildings

Bristol is not a city known for its tall buildings – photo: Griffiths
Main photo: Martin Booth
Read next:
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- New Bristol developments accused of ‘greenwashing’
- ‘Bristol should learn from cities like Barcelona and ban high-rises in the city centre’
- Civic Society objects to 28-storey tower ‘in the strongest terms’
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