Exclusive film premiere at London's Sky Garden

London, the 17^th of October 2024 – A perfectly staged moment: As the 200 invited guests arrive at the Sky Garden of 20 Fenchurch Street – also affectionately known as "The Walkie-Talkie" by locals – the sun begins to set behind the London skyline. Its warm light floods the spectacular Sky Garden and bathes the curved glass façade in golden tones – a magical prelude to an evening that should be all about inspiring architecture and enriching conversations. With a welcome drink and exquisite canapés, visitors get in the mood for the exclusive premiere of the second part of the documentary series ‘Women in Architecture’.

The venue could not have been more fitting: the Sky Garden itself embodies the innovative power of modern architecture. The three-storey, lushly planted glass dome offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the London skyline and creates a unique symbiosis between urban architecture and a natural oasis of relaxation.

The film series initiated by Sky-Frame started in 2022 with the aim of highlighting the often-underestimated role of women in architecture. The venue for the premiere perfectly symbolises the underlying concern of the documentary: visionary thinking that breaks down barriers and opens up new perspectives.

The film impressively portrays the different paths taken by the two protagonists: Nigerian architect Tosin Oshinowo, known for her context-sensitive architecture that combines African traditions with contemporary design vocabulary, and Danish architect  Dorte Mandrup, whose bold designs set new standards particularly in climatically challenging regions.

Following the screening, Amanda Ferber, founder and CEO of Architecture Hunter, moderated a panel discussion that was as informative as it was entertaining. The two protagonists, Dorte Mandrup and Tosin Oshinowo, provided personal insights into their career paths. Despite the serious subject matter, the participants managed to elicit smiles from the audience time and again with authentic anecdotes and humorous insights into their professional lives.

Particularly moving was the moment when Oshinowo paid tribute to her mother, who was present, thus highlighting the important role of support networks for women in leadership positions. The architects spoke openly about the challenges they face in a male-dominated industry, ranging from undervaluation of their skills to outright prejudice. "The biggest challenge is still not the design itself, but the structural barriers in a male-dominated industry," said Oshinowo. Mandrup added: "We have to stop talking about female architecture. It is about excellent architecture, regardless of gender."

The panel discussion revealed the complex challenges that female architects around the world face: from the difficult reconciliation of work and family life to subtle prejudices in the awarding of major projects. At the same time, it became clear that an historic moment of awareness is taking place right now. As Oshinowo emphasised, for the first time in the history of our civilisation, we are experiencing a conscious effort towards greater inclusivity – a development that is shaping not only architecture, but society as a whole.

After a lively discussion, the evening continued with a relaxed flying dinner in the beautifully lit location. The guests enjoyed a variety of creations in bowls and exquisite sweet canapés, while DJ sounds provided the perfect musical backdrop. The international guests were treated to breathtaking views of London by night as they strolled between the various levels of the Sky Garden.

The premiere in the Sky Garden not only marked the successful continuation of an important documentary series, but also underscored the growing importance of the discourse on diversity in architecture. At a height of 160 metres, surrounded by one of Europe's most impressive cityscapes, a powerful statement was made this evening about the future of architecture – a future that will be characterised by diversity and innovation.

The documentary ‘Women in Architecture - Part Two’ will be available exclusively on Sky-Frame.com and on our YouTube channel from the 12^th of November 2024.

Photography: Caputre House