NextGen is back for 2026 - and we’re kicking off the year with an inspiring deep dive into international development.
If we specify it, are we responsible?
Ethics and influence in global construction supply chains
In an increasingly interconnected world, every design decision carries weight far beyond the project site. When architects and built‑environment professionals specify materials, systems and partners, we shape not only buildings but the global supply chains behind them.
NextGen: International Development brings together emerging leaders from across the built‑environment sector for a panel discussion to examine how our choices influence equity and resilience internationally.
This session explores the ethical responsibilities embedded in specification, and how we can design and build in ways that strengthen communities, protect workers, and foster sustainable collaboration across borders.
A big thank you to Ridge and Solus for hosting this event.
Panel speaker bios
Branca Pegado is an Associate Architect at Article 25, overseeing projects from feasibility through to completion. With previous roles at Howells, Noiz Architects and Adamson Associates, her experience spans landmark UK developments such as The Shard through to humanitarian projects including the Yangon General Hospital and Dominica Housing Recovery Project. She currently leads the New National Hospital in Montserrat and the Laos Khammouane Provincial Hospital Masterplan. Five years as a Site Architect gave Branca a grounded understanding of material performance in context. At Article 25, this shapes her approach to procurement - identifying materials that are locally available, sustainable and easy to maintain. Having lived and worked across multiple countries, she brings a nuanced appreciation of how communities perceive materials, and why that matters when building responsibly across borders.
Lauren Totzke, Director at Totzke Limited, was born into the world of carpet. Her father owned a small plant in Mexico, and the Totzke family grew up in Dalton, Georgia, the ‘carpet capital of the world’. With two decades of experience in commercial flooring, Lauren’s expertise is executing large scale commercial projects. She deeply understands all the technical details required to take a rug from concept to specification to installation to life on the floor. The knowledge of carpet construction, manufacturing and logistics sets the foundations for the creative side of our business to design from. Her travels to India and years working with our manufacturing partner deepened her appreciation and love for traditional hand crafting and natural materials. She is passionate about having a socially responsible offering and collaborating with a diverse set of creative minds to build a beautiful and responsible brand.
Luke Bajic is a Specialist Product Consultant at Solus Ceramics, working with architects, designers and contractors to deliver innovative, lower impact material solutions. With a background in sustainability consulting and ESG reporting, he brings experience from both the built environment and corporate sustainability sectors. Luke focuses on helping project teams navigate certifications, material data and circular design strategies to deliver high-performing, future-ready buildings.
Matteo Bonotto, Design Manager at Agilité, is a licensed architect with qualifications from ARB, RIBA and Albo Unico Nazionale degli Architetti Italia. Passionate about integrating the latest technologies into design and construction, he utilises tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and advanced visualisation software to enhance project efficiency. Matteo’s role at Agilité includes coordinating across disciplines to ensure design alignment with project goals, managing design changes, overseeing technical drawings and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. His commitment to quality assurance and innovation ensures designs meet client objectives and brand aesthetics.
If your organisation is already a More Than a Building member, contact your NextGen representative to learn about how to receive your invite.
Not yet part of More Than a Building but think your organisation would be interested in joining? Get in touch at info@article-25.org