The Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA) announces International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA)–APR Regional Congress 2025 in Mumbai: “Growth Paradox – Reimagining Landscapes”

The Indian Society of Landscape Architects (ISOLA) has announced the upcoming International Federation of Landscape Architects – Asia Pacific Regional Congress 2025, themed “Growth Paradox: Reimagining Landscapes.” As India’s largest international conference on landscape architecture, the congress will convene global and Indian leaders in design, ecology, urban planning, and policy to explore how landscape architecture can redefine the meaning of growth in today’s rapidly urbanizing world.

The theme “Growth Paradox” challenges conventional notions of development, urging professionals and citizens alike to reconsider what progress truly means. Rather than pursuing unchecked expansion, the congress advocates for thoughtful, regenerative design that prioritizes ecological balance, cultural continuity, and human well-being.

ISOLA President Urmila Rajadhyaksha emphasized the congress’s role as a catalyst for change: “Landscape architects have the power to influence how our cities evolve. Through this congress, ISOLA aims to inspire collective action and elevate the discipline’s role in shaping resilient and inclusive environments.”

Congress Convenor Devyani Upasani Deshmukh reflected on the vision behind the event: “When ISOLA won the bid in Japan in 2023, we knew we wanted to create a platform that makes landscape architecture visible and relevant—not just to professionals, but to every citizen. The theme reflects our intent to question the kind of growth we’re pursuing and to celebrate what we already have.”

The congress is supported by a wide coalition of organizations including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Meet in India, Incredible India, Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Indian Institute of Architects (IIA), Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Centre for Development of Stones (CDOS), and CREDAI–MCHI. Their involvement underscores the interdisciplinary nature of landscape architecture and its impact across sectors.

Jeetendra Pardeshi, Superintendent of Gardens and Tree Officer at BMC, highlighted Mumbai’s unique urban challenges and the need for innovation: “Mumbai’s density leaves little room for traditional open spaces, but it also pushes us to innovate—through vertical gardens, podium greens, and terrace landscapes. Landscape architects are essential to improving our city’s environmental health and quality of life.”

From the development community, Keval Valambhia, COO of CREDAI–MCHI, called for intentional and humane urban growth: “Growth is natural, but development must be conscious and balanced. Landscape architecture connects built spaces with emotion and ecology, making cities more livable and meaningful.”

IGBC Chairperson Mala Singh added, “Landscape architecture gives life and heart to our built environment. As cities face climate change, it’s essential to integrate landscape architects into every stage of development.”

Darshana Dubhashi, VP of IIA–Mumbai Chapter, echoed the collaborative spirit of the congress: “Growth must be collective. When pursued with shared intent, it leads to holistic outcomes. We’re proud to partner with ISOLA in reimagining urban futures.”

The congress will feature over 40 eminent speakers from India and abroad, including thought leaders in design, ecology, and policy. The two-day program will include keynote sessions, expert talks, panel discussions, debates, exhibitions, and a student-led Global Landscape Studio initiative. A closing Manifesto Declaration will aim to sensitize future generations about sustainable growth and the role of landscape architecture in shaping it.

Industry exhibitors such as Freeform, Vyara, Wipro, K-Lite, SMARK, Fluidra by Astral, Simpolo, and KSR Brothers will showcase innovations that bridge design, sustainability, and technology—advancing the dialogue between landscape and built environments.

The congress will also celebrate India’s cultural heritage with a traditional puppet show and culminate in the IFLA Awards Gala Nite, honoring excellence in landscape architecture across the Asia–Pacific region.

ISOLA, founded in 2003, continues to be a leading voice for professional excellence and environmental responsibility in India. As a member of IFLA, it actively contributes to the global advancement of sustainable landscape design and planning. With a growing membership across states and international chapters, ISOLA advocates for the discipline’s vital role in shaping resilient, inclusive, and ecologically balanced environments.

The IFLA–APR 2025 Congress promises to be a landmark event—one that not only redefines landscapes but also reimagines the very idea of growth.