Designing the future: A glimpse into Metaverse Architecture Biennale 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the digital world, the Metaverse Architecture Biennale 2023 emerges as a pioneering force, ushering in a new era where architecture and design transcend the physical realm to shape the virtual one. This groundbreaking event titled Presence of the Future invites you to embark on a journey that bridges the past, present, and future of architectural innovation.

Scheduled to take place from September 21 to October 6, 2023, this inaugural event is poised to unite top creators from around the world in an endeavour to manifest the profound influence of architecture and design on the transformation of Web3 and the Metaverse into dynamic platforms for business and creativity. The Biennale will be accessible to all, requiring only a computer with internet access, making it a global celebration of innovation and inspiration.

The inspiration for the Presence of the Future title stems from the iconic Venice Architecture Biennale's first edition, aptly named the Presence of the Past. In 1980, this primary event, under the direction of Paolo Portoghesi, gathered luminaries such as Frank Gehry, Hollien, Rem Koolhaas, Robert Venturi, Scott Brown, and Sergio Rossi, who celebrated postmodernism as the prevailing architectural style of the time. Today, as our world embraces digital technology as the primary medium of a new architectural language and culture, we find ourselves in the era of metamodernism.

The Presence of the Future exhibition aims to spotlight architecture’s potential to reshape contemporary living within virtual realms. As novel communication and collaboration methods continue to emerge, designers and architects are invited to envision and shape our collective destiny through this showcase. It harnesses the transformative power of architecture in the metaverse, paving the way for its constructive evolution. The Metaverse Architecture Biennale serves as a platform for visionary architects at the forefront of digital design. Renowned studios such as Killa Design, LAVA, PLP, ATRIUM, SoomeenHahm Design, Spaces DAO, DA!, Il Prisma, SA lab, iheartblob, OBMI, Mariana Cabuguiera Studios, and ILLUSORR lead the way, showcasing their virtual pavilions and worlds.

In addition to these established names, 17 participants from across the globe were selected through an open call process, which drew over 90 entries. This diverse group of talent included names such as Meta Architects, Q63, PROm7 (by LABVA PRO), UIC Barcelona, Untitled. by Maria Touloupou, Space Lane, Shashwat Prakhar, Dariana Andrei, AXI+, Leonardo Marchesi, EXPERIMENTAQ, NESA, NTAR, MFSG6, Akash Deep Ravichandran, OSTASHOVA_Architects and The Ninjas.

The Biennale unfolds across two distinctive platforms: Decentraland and W3rlds. Each participating architect creates one installation for both Metaverse platforms, resulting in a total of over 60 captivating spaces. Attendees will enjoy seamless teleportation between these two worlds, offering the opportunity to explore virtual pavilions, engage in interactive exhibits, and connect with a global community of creators. The Decentraland plaza serves as the central hub for the event, showcasing architects' pavilions alongside partner pavilions and public spaces housing installations, lecture halls and venues for celebrations. W3rlds, with its vast scale, offers architects the canvas to craft expansive architectural experiences.

The second stage of the Biennale master plan involves bringing the finalist’s projects to life. Selected participants receive guidance on adapting their designs to meet the Biennale and metaverse platform specifications. The quality of the models undergoes rigorous assessment and the finalised projects join the ranks of selected architects in the exhibition.

The first edition of the Biennale is a collaborative effort led by three co-organisers: Dearch Space, W3rlds and Metancy. Their motivation stems from the metaverse’s untapped potential. They see it as a gateway to a new, three-dimensional digital space, blurring the lines between reality and virtual realm. They firmly believe that architects should be active participants in this journey, drawing inspiration from the offerings of the digital world where architecture and design break free from the confines of the physical world.

While the architectural installations are at the heart of the Biennale, the event offers more than just a feast for the eyes. Cultural and entertainment events, including opening and closing ceremonies, lectures, public talks, and the architecture carnival, await attendees. The lecture programme boasts an exceptional line-up of industry leaders, architects, and innovators, featuring representatives from Zaha Hadid Architects, UNStudio, HWKN, and more. The programme will delve into varied subjects, encompassing themes such as, "From Metaverse platforms to the Metaverse," "The Rise of Digital Fashion: What Can We Learn from the Industry in the Avant-Garde of Web3 Culture?”, “Virtual Architecture Experiments and Practice,”, “Business of Web3 and Metaverse: Trends, Expectations, and Real Cases,” and many more.

The Biennale is poised to host a vibrant exhibition of inventive concepts during its upcoming four-day event from September 21-24. This immersive experience guarantees a dynamic programme that includes revealing key event concepts, such as a virtual space guide that spotlights leading architects and their web3 projects. Attendees can look forward to engaging in discussions with web3 creators and businesses, offering deep insights into this transformative digital landscape, and as the sun sets on each day, live DJ sessions will create an atmosphere of camaraderie and enjoyment, rounding off each day with an unforgettable experience.

"We aim to redefine the role of architecture and design in shaping the future of the Metaverse. We truly believe that architecture will play an integral part in the creation of the Metaverse, as graphic design played in shaping the internet we use today," shares Sergey Nadtochiy, co-organiser and curator of MAB. The Metaverse Architecture Biennale 2023 is expected to draw over 50,000 participants, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic newcomers. With dozens of installations and prominent names from the tech and design industry, this event aspires to be the global hub for discussions on the metaverse and digital architecture, showcasing the best practices and innovative ideas.

As the digital realm continues to expand, the Metaverse Architecture Biennale 2023, in partnership with STIR as an esteemed media partner, beckons you to explore the limitless possibilities of architecture and design in the virtual world. Mark your calendars and be a part of a transformative experience that is poised to redefine the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and the very essence of the metaverse.

The Metaverse Architecture Biennale 2023, 'Presence of the Future', will take place from September 21 to October 6, 2023.