What does it mean to design for a desirable future - and how does that translate into present-day choices?

In this talk, Simon explores how our frames of thinking shape what we consider possible, and how finding glitches within them can open up new pathways. Drawing on work with the European Commission’s NetZeroCities mission, as well as collaborations with startups, artists, and civil society, he reflects on the designer’s responsibility to expand the space of options available to society.

What becomes possible from here on out – and what does it ask of us as responsible designers seeking more just and livable futures?

The lecture is envisioned to be experienced in tandem with the From Earth installation on regenerative professional neighbourhoods outside the Futures Library at Media Evolution.

Simon Höher

Simon Höher is an independent Strategic Designer and Systems Change Lead at Dark Matter Labs. His work focuses on just transition processes, public innovation, and digital transformation. He has a background in sociology, political science, economics and philosophy with a particular focus on Systems Theory and has been working with public, private and civic organisations for over a decade.

Program

• Restaurant Varv is open from 8 am.
• Check-in from 8.30 am
• Event start at 9 am
• Event ends at 10 am

Context

The lecture is the first in a series on Foresight and Futures. Later in the day there’s a Community Horizons relay and Vinterfesten 2025.

This lecture is also a part of Learn, Create, Engage – a project that helps develop competence and strengthen people who work within the cultural and creative industries in Skåne, by offering free courses and much more. Funded by the European Social Fund.