From 4–8 May, the Applied Blended Challenge (ABC) programme “The Isar Workshop: Sustainable Urban Design in Dialogue with Nature and Community” took place in Stip (North Macedonia). The programme served as an important platform for academic exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of sustainable urban design concepts, fostering dialogue between nature, the urban environment, and the local community.

During field-based activities, participants explored the potential of the Isar area and the Štip riverbank, analysing the existing conditions and seeking sustainable urban solutions. The programme was led by Prof. Dr. Ekaterina Namicheva Todorovska, Assoc. Prof. Vladica Nikolovska, Prof. Dr. Daiva Kraniauskienė, and Prof. Dr. Marius Vaišnoras.

During the first three days, participants actively engaged in various interdisciplinary activities aimed at analysing and identifying urban environmental challenges. Through site visits to the Isar area, spatial mapping, research activities, and direct engagement with the local community, students and academic staff developed ideas and initial concepts for sustainable urban development.

The third day of the programme was dedicated to in-depth analysis, the development of conceptual solutions, and the presentation of initial ideas within a team-based working context. Through discussions, creative workshops, and knowledge exchange, participants strengthened their collaboration and further developed their research into concrete proposals.