The Bartlett Summer Show 2026: History and Theory Talking Space

About

Talking Space is the History and Theory component of the Bartlett Summer Show 2026, bringing together student talks, readings and research presentations from across the School’s exhibiting programmes.

Across two lunchtime live events, students from Architecture BSc, Architecture MSci, Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies BSc, Engineering and Architectural Design MEng, and Architecture MArch will share their research in architectural history and theory through a combination of readings from written work and reflections on research projects.

History and theory form an important part of architectural education across the Bartlett’s programmes, encouraging students to critically examine architecture’s social, political, environmental and cultural contexts alongside design practice. The event offers insight into how research, writing and critical inquiry shape contemporary architectural thinking and future approaches to the built environment.

Two events will take place, on:

• Saturday 27 June 2026, and
• Saturday 4 July 

both from 12:00 - 14:00. Pre-registration is not required.

Each event is curated from a wide range of voices, perspectives and interests, representing the exceptional diversity of the Bartlett School of Architecture and its key priorities in striving for equitable architectural futures.

2026 is the year in which we celebrate UCL’s bicentenary, marking 200 years since UCL’s establishment as the first university in London. On 11 February 2026, UCL will begin a year of celebration to mark our Bicentenary. UCL200 will be an exciting and varied programme of activities, events and storytelling, celebrating and reinforcing UCL’s commitment to our founding values, highlighting the excellence and impact of our groundbreaking work and people, and presenting an ambitious and inspiring portrait of our future.