Steffen Lehmann

Dr. Steffen Lehmann, an internationally recognized designer, educator, scholar, author, and scientific researcher, holds the prestigious title of senior tenured Professor of Architecture & Urbanism. He has also served as the Executive Director of esteemed architecture schools in the United States and Australia, including the UNLV School of Architecture in Las Vegas.

Leading with innovation, Steffen directs the interdisciplinary Urban Futures Lab and serves as the CEO of the Future Cities Leadership Lab Institute. His strategic vision drives transformative programs aimed at positive change in response to the fast-changing landscape of the profession and society.

With an impressive career as a chair professor in the UK and the UNESCO Chair for Sustainable Urban Development for the Asia-Pacific Region, Steffen is not only an award-winning researcher but also a sought-after innovation consultant, collaborating with leading companies, cities, and governments globally. His focus on design thinking and the applied humanities enables him to address critical challenges faced by cities and communities today, from climate change management to economic recovery and overall wellbeing. Steffen’s expertise has played a key role in shaping sustainable cities and resilient urban environments.

As we grapple with the impact of climate change and urbanization, Steffen emphasizes the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession. Recognizing the leadership role of design disciplines and social sciences, he aims to foster diversity and drive positive change for a sustainable future.

His journey as a licensed architect in Berlin began with the founding of a pioneering interdisciplinary practice, combining design, architecture, and urban planning. Driven by exceptional leadership, his studio successfully undertook projects with a construction budget exceeding $1.5 billion, significantly contributing to the urban transformation of ‘New Berlin’. Throughout his illustrious career, he has authored 23 books and written over 500 articles and papers on architecture and sustainable urban development. Steffen’s research primarily revolves around urban resilience, sustainable architecture, and urban design, focusing on themes such as resource-efficient urban design, climate change, environmental sustainability, and high-performance architecture.

Steffen’s passion for sharing knowledge is evident through over 600 presentations of his research and design work in 40 countries, including more than 100 keynote addresses at prestigious events worldwide, such as MoMA New York, TED Talk, and the Venice Architecture Biennale. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a strong advocate for diversity, equal pay, and the advancement of underrepresented minorities in the field. Steffen firmly believes that embracing diversity and mentoring programs create a richer learning and research environment, preparing future leaders to tackle the challenges of our time.