On Tuesday, we attended HOPE 2026, the event that places people, cities, and the urban future of the MENA region at its core. A setting where architecture and inclusive, sustainable planning become concrete tools for shaping spaces that truly engage with those who inhabit them. Benedetta Mea, Managing & Creative Director at Settanta7, took part in the panel “Urban Growth, Housing & Healthy Cities,” sharing our approach on how the design of educational spaces can become a driver of growth for communities. In her talk, she also explained how the new housing models developed through Settanta7’s architectural research are able to activate new processes that connect education, the built environment, and collective well-being. An intense evening of dialogue, shared visions, and new synergies, which broadened the conversation and reinforced the value of design as a lever for change.
Thanks to Manuela Gatto (Zaha Hadid Architects), Amna Al-Saadi (GCET), and Haitham Al Abri (Ibrahim Jaidah) for their contributions to the discussion, and to Ruth M. Mabry, Global Health Consultant, for moderating. A special thanks as well to Joleza Koka (HOPE Organising Committee) for the organization and to the Municipality of Muscat for their hospitality.
