Shaping the next generation

of urban leaders

'The future of our society is the future of our cities—They are our greatest invention'. Norman Foster

The Norman Foster Institute (NFI) is an initiative of the Norman Foster Foundation devoted to addressing the growing importance of urbanisation and its challenges. Its mission is to promote interdisciplinary thinking and research, helping new generations anticipate the future and improve the quality of life in cities worldwide.

Education

The NFI offers a holistic, comprehensive and multidisciplinary educational experience that encourages experimentation through research and specific projects focused on cities.

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Research

Through its City Lab, the NFI employs a data and evidence-informed approach applied through metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to support cities, researchers and students

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Advisory

The NFI offers advice, support and guidance to cities, policymakers and urban enthusiasts seeking sustainable solutions around the world.

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Master's Programme on Sustainable Cities

Preparing civic leaders for the future

The NFI Master’s Programme on Sustainable Cities is a year-long initiative designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for evidence-based city-making. This programme operates with a global view on the belief that cities are central to addressing the critical environmental, social, and economic challenges of our era, aiming to transform urban spaces into more sustainable, livable, and resilient communities.

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Norman Foster - Norman Foster Institute

Norman Foster | NFI Co-Director

Kent Larson - Norman Foster Institute

Kent Larson | NFI Co-Director

Edgar Pieterse - Norman Foster Institute

Edgar Pieterse | NFI Provost

Dava Newman - Norman Foster Institute

Dava Newman | NFI Honorary Dean

Alejandro Aravena - Norman Foster Institute

Alejandro Aravena

Deborah Berke - Norman Foster Institute

Deborah Berke

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Shigeru Ban

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Vishaan Chakrabarti

Beatriz Corredor - Norman Foster Institute

Beatriz Corredor

Andrés Jaque - Norman Foster Institute

Andrés Jaque

Elena Foster - Norman Foster Institute

Elena Foster

Ian Goldin - Norman Foster Institute

Ian Goldin

Francis Kéré - Norman Foster Institute

Francis Kéré

Maria Vassilakou - Norman Foster Institute

María Vassilakou

A new generation of city-makers

NFI graduates are invited to join the Norman Foster Foundation alumni network, formed by participants in previous educational programmes, masterclasses, workshops and think tanks. This vibrant network gathers researchers and professionals from different disciplines but with a common purpose: become future civic leaders capable of facing the urban challenges of the twenty-first century.

Join the network

Cities

Learn more about our projects

A hub for data-driven urban solutions

The NFI City Lab is a research laboratory that develops evidence-informed strategies to support city administrations in advancing sustainable urban development. The lab seeks to address key environmental and social challenges by creating practical solutions that enhance urban planning, public spaces, and policies, all aimed at improving the quality of life for city residents.

Learn more about the NFI City Lab