Chapman Taylor’s Catalina Ionita to lead Manchester Urban Design Walking Tour

The Forum for the Built Environment (FBE) is set to host an inspiring Urban Design Walking Tour this summer, offering a fresh look at some of Manchester’s most dynamic and historically rich neighbourhoods. The tour will be led by Dr. Catalina Ionita, Senior Architect at Chapman Taylor, and take place on Friday, 25 July, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The route will explore key areas of Salford, the renowned Deansgate, and Castlefield—one of Manchester’s most significant heritage districts, renowned for its Roman origins, industrial legacy, and ongoing transformation into a vibrant, contemporary neighbourhood.

Catalina, a specialist in urban design and regeneration with a PhD in placemaking, brings a distinctive mix of academic insight and practical expertise. Her perspective will offer attendees a deeper understanding of how cities adapt and evolve in response to cultural, social, and environmental shifts.

The walk will highlight how Castlefield’s historical assets are being sensitively integrated into a modern, liveable cityscape. Topics covered will include public realm design, adaptive reuse, and sustainable development—making this a must-attend event for built environment professionals, students, and anyone with a passion for cities and how they’re shaped.

Ticket Information:

Members: £17.50 + VAT
Non-members: £26.00 + VAT
Tickets are limited—early booking is recommended.

Booking and more information: Visit fbeonline.co.uk for full event details and registration.

Dr Catalina Ionita (BA(Hons) MArch ARB RIBA AFHEA)

Senior Architect, UK

Catalina joined the Manchester studio in 2021 as an Architect supporting the Feasibility team. She brings a passion for successful placemaking to her work in the residential and mixed-use sectors.

She has experience working on a wide range of projects at all work stages, including large residential developments, masterplans, offices, and listed building restorations.

Cat is also a Women in Property North West committee member with a strategic role as Inclusion Champion. For one day a week, she teaches a Masters of Architecture and Urban Design course at the Manchester School of Architecture.

In 2024, she completed a PhD in Urban Activation and Placemaking from Sheffield Hallam University.

Areas of expertise:

Placemaking / Residential / Mixed-Use / Research

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