The International Design Seminar (INDESEM) has a long and fascinating history. Since the first edition in 1964, each INDESEM has brought students and professionals from all over the world together to explore relevant architectural issues of their time – in the form of excursions, competitions, and lectures. While INDESEM evolves and changes, depending on the people involved in its organization, each edition exposes current ideas and needs of the students: their views on architecture education, what they deem most relevant, and which designers inspire them. In return, INDESEM inspires educators and helps establish new ways of teaching in architecture.
STUDENT INITIATIVE Following Herman Hertzberger's retirement in 1999, INDESEM transitioned into a fully student-led initiative, marking a new era of independence from its founding mentor. The 2000 edition, organized shortly after Hertzberger's departure and Aldo van Eyck's passing, was dedicated to honoring Hertzberger. He wrote the design brief, shifting the focus from traditional design challenges to analyzing the intentions and qualities of architecture, highlighting generational and ideological discussions. A key moment was a debate between Hertzberger and Rem Koolhaas, showcasing a dialogue between the FORUM architects, Koolhaas, and the emerging "Superdutch" generation.

With Hertzberger no longer involved, students took full responsibility for organizing future editions, supported by professors like Arie Graafland and Deborah Hauptmann, who acted as advisors rather than leaders. This student-driven approach enabled INDESEM to grow into a prominent event, attracting major figures in the architecture world. The 2003 edition, the first entirely independent of Hertzberger, demonstrated its established reputation, continuing to foster innovation and collaboration in the architectural field.