Norman Foster on London, young talent and the future of our cities

Wednesday 28 October 2026

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Norman Foster on London, young talent and the future of our cities

Lord Norman Foster, NLA Londoner of the Year 2026, shares his optimism for the next generation in a new interview with Catherine Staniland, NLA’s Chief Impact Officer.

Reflecting on what makes him hopeful about the future of London and cities around the world, he points to the young people he works with: “There’s an incredible sense of enthusiasm and appetite for learning, for understanding.”

The conversation explores London’s influence on his global practice, from its extraordinary talent pool to its public spaces and transport infrastructure. Drawing on projects including Trafalgar Square and the Millennium Bridge, Lord Foster discusses how planning, civic leadership and collaboration can improve everyday life.

He also shares how his foundation’s Institute for Sustainable Cities is helping to equip future civic leaders with the knowledge and experience to shape better cities.

Watch the full interview below.

Lord Foster will receive his award and deliver a speech at the NLA Awards Lunch and Ceremony at Guildhall on Thursday 19 November 2026. With limited tables remaining, book now to join the celebration of the people and projects shaping London.

Watch the interview

Book your table

Watch the interview

Book your table

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