The Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA) has announced that Mumbai will host the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) – Asia Pacific Regional Congress 2025 on November 14 and 15, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC. Themed “Growth Paradox: Reimagining Landscapes,” the event will explore how the concept of growth can be redefined to create resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities of the future.
Supported by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) as Green Supporter, the initiative also partners with Meet in India, Incredible India, IGBC, CEE, IIA, BNHS–India, CDOS, and CREDAI–MCHI. The congress is expected to be India’s largest international event on landscape architecture, bringing together thought leaders from urban planning, ecology, design, and policy.
Industry innovators such as Freeform, Vyara, Wipro, K-Lite, SMARK, Fluidra by Astral, Simpolo, and KSR Brothers will also participate, showcasing the latest sustainable materials and design technologies.
“A platform for global dialogue”
Speaking at the announcement, Urmila Rajadhyaksha, President of ISOLA, said the congress aims to position landscape architecture as a key force in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
“Landscape architects have the power to influence how our cities evolve — balancing ecology with urban growth. Through this congress, ISOLA hopes to inspire collective action for a sustainable future,” she said.
Devyani Upasani Deshmukh, Convenor of IFLA–APR 2025, highlighted the event’s inclusive vision:
“The theme ‘Growth Paradox’ challenges us to rethink what kind of growth we are pursuing. Instead of constantly seeking what’s new, we must value and regenerate what already exists,” she said.
Urban collaboration and innovation
Jeetendra Pardeshi, Superintendent of Gardens and Tree Officer, BMC, underlined Mumbai’s unique challenges and innovations:
“Mumbai’s density leaves little room for open spaces, but it pushes us to innovate — through vertical gardens, podium greens, and terrace landscapes. Landscape architects are vital to improving the city’s environmental health,” he said.
Keval Valambhia, COO of CREDAI–MCHI, emphasized the need for intentional development:
“Growth is natural, but development must be conscious and humane. Landscape architecture connects the built environment with emotion and nature,” he said.
Mala Singh, Chairperson, IGBC, noted that landscape architecture is fundamental to truly green buildings, while Darshana Dubhashi, VP of IIA–Mumbai Chapter, called for collective and collaborative growth toward sustainable futures.
40+ speakers, exhibitions, and cultural showcase
The two-day congress will host 40+ eminent speakers from India and abroad, offering keynote sessions, debates, panel discussions, and exhibitions. A student-led Global Landscape Studio and a Manifesto Declaration will further promote awareness of sustainable growth among future generations.
The opening day will feature a traditional puppet show celebrating India’s cultural heritage, followed by the IFLA Awards Gala Nite, honoring excellence in landscape architecture across the Asia–Pacific region.
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