Joaquim Moreno Appointed Chief Curator for the 8th Lisbon Architecture Triennale




















The 8th Lisbon Architecture Triennale, slated for autumn 2028, has officially begun its preparatory phase with the announcement of its new Chief Curator. This significant architectural event consistently initiates its curatorial process three years in advance, allowing for thorough project development and the integration of insights from previous editions. The preceding 7th Triennale, led by Ann-Sofi Rönnskog and John Palmesino of Territorial Agency, concluded on December 8, 2025. It challenged conventional urban perspectives by asking, 'How heavy is a city?' and examined cities as complex, evolving systems that extend beyond their physical limits into the environment and across time, a concept explored through exhibitions such as 'Fluxes,' 'Spectres,' and 'Lighter.'
In a direct appointment reflecting his esteemed reputation, Joaquim Moreno, a notable Portuguese architect and academic, has been chosen to spearhead the 8th Triennale. This selection by the Associação Trienal de Arquitectura de Lisboa underscores the organization's commitment to leadership with profound curatorial expertise, a sharp critical viewpoint, a unique vision, and intellectual rigor. Moreno, born in Luanda, Angola, in 1973, is an Associate Professor and director of the Integrated Master's Degree in Architecture at the University of Porto's Faculty of Architecture (FAUP). His extensive background includes teaching at the Architectural Association in London and curating acclaimed exhibitions and publications that delve into architecture's interplay with media, pedagogy, and energy. His previous works include 'The University Is Now on Air: Broadcasting Modern Architecture' at the Canadian Centre for Architecture, 'Radar Veneza: Portuguese Architects in the Biennale 1975–2021,' 'Classroom, a Teenage View,' and 'Storytelling Meters' at MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology. He also co-curated the Portuguese Pavilion at the 2008 Venice Architecture Biennale and served as editor for InSi(s)tu and various other international architectural publications. The upcoming three years are envisioned as a period of intensive research and creative exploration, designed to craft a forward-thinking program that will serve as a hub for critical dialogues on the future trajectory of architecture.
Moreno expressed his excitement, stating that he looks forward to nurturing the rich legacy of the Lisbon Triennale, which has been fostering architectural discourse for nearly two decades. He emphasizes the event's ongoing mission to elevate architecture's commitment to urban development and community engagement. The Lisbon Architecture Triennale, as a non-profit entity, is dedicated to fostering spatial research and critical architectural discussions. Every three years, it convenes an international forum that encourages deep reflection, spirited debate, and cross-disciplinary dialogue. Recent editions have featured diverse programming, including exhibitions, independent projects, urban installations, performances, and conferences throughout Lisbon, along with established awards like the Achievement, Début, and Universities awards, and thematic publications. Notably, the most recent Triennale honored Yasmeen Lari with the Millennium bcp Lifetime Achievement Award and recognized ReSa Architects with the Début Award. Over the past two decades, the Triennale has cultivated a dynamic platform connecting architects, researchers, policymakers, academic institutions, cultural organizations, and a global audience, collectively addressing pressing contemporary architectural issues.