Last week former Flanders Government Architect and emeritus professor Marcel Smets has been awarded the title Doctor Honoris Causa of the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca,
"In high recognition of his outstanding achievements in the field of urban history and theory, as well as in the science and art of urban design, reflected in an exceptional career as a professor and practicing urban planner and designer, dedicated to promoting the architectural quality of cities, infrastructures, and territories.” - Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania
In his reception word, Marcel Smets has analysed the multi-layered influences that led him to recognise the considerations and principles on which his various urban design projects are founded. Following the Doctor Honoris Causa ceremony, in the frame of BATRA 2025 - the biennial of the Romanian Architects Order - Transylvania branch, Marcel Smets has also given a key-lecture titled ”EST.ETIC - Dancing with the Devil,” wherein he has explored the intersection between aesthetics and ethics in contemporary urban-design practice, followed by an engaging discussion with professor Adrian Papahagi of the Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj.