What’s new at AIA26?

Discover what’s new at the architecture & design event of the year!

AIA26 is designed for this moment. With new programming, new experiences, and a sharper focus on what architects need now, the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design® 2026 offers fresh ways to learn, connect, and lead. Here’s what’s new—and why AIA26 matters more than ever.

Group of women having fun and taking pictures in front of large AIA letters at the Conference on Architecture & Design.

A sharper focus on today’s challenges

Change hits architects first—and the firms that recognize the signals early are best positioned to lead. AIA26 delivers timely insight into today’s economic conditions, practice transformation, AI, and innovation—helping architects understand where the industry is now and respond with confidence.

At the center of this focus is AIA Chief Economist Richard Branch—you’ll find him:

Sharing daily market outlooks on the expo floor
Leading a moderated conversation with AGC and ACEC economists
Hosting CE sessions on real-world economic implications for firms

This focus carries through the Business & Firm Success track, with two major sessions on Friday, June 12—one exploring cross-industry business insights for architects, engineers, and contractors, and another centered on benchmarking for business success using AIA tools.

AIA26 will also host Practical AI for Every Architect, hosted by Technology in Architectural Practice, a summit focused on how accessible, off-the-shelf AI tools are already reshaping design, documentation, and firm operations—giving practices of all sizes strategies they can use right now.

Smarter ways to network

AIA26 has always been about connection. This year, networking gets more intentional—with smarter ways to build meaningful, career-long relationships.

Braindate
Connect one-on-one or in small groups through curated, outcome-driven conversations with peers and exhibitors around shared interests, challenges, and ideas. Whether you’re exploring industry advancements, specification needs, or design solutions, Braindate turns shared curiosity into meaningful connections on the expo floor.

AIA Community Hub (Sails Pavilion)
Drop in for activations and activities that bring together industry cohorts around shared expertise—your place to find your people and spark lasting connections.

A new way to get inspired

AIA26 features two must-see Architalks from globally recognized architects whose work demonstrates architecture’s power to serve society.

June 11: Shigeru Ban, Hon. FAIA
One of the most influential architects of our time, Shigeru Ban, Hon. FAIA, is redefining what architecture can—and should—do for society. Known for his groundbreaking paper and timber structures and his humanitarian work around the world, Ban shares how design can respond to urgent human and environmental needs with creativity, responsibility, and impact.

June 12: Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, & Roy Decker, FAIA
Anne Marie Duvall Decker, FAIA, and Roy Decker, FAIA, share a compelling vision of architecture as a civic act rooted in service, humility, and place. Drawing from decades of work in rural and resource-limited communities, they show how listening first and building trust over time leads to lasting civic impact—an inspiring reminder of architecture’s power where it matters most.

A new location: San Diego

Named one of the coolest cities in the U.S. and Canada by Forbes, San Diego brings together coastal beauty, creative energy, and a signature spirit of happiness. AIA26 makes the most of it with architect-led tours and Open Studios offering behind-the-scenes access to iconic projects and firms. Tour destinations include Balboa Park, the Salk Institute, Hotel del Coronado, UC San Diego, and more!

Plus, attendees receive the guaranteed lowest hotel rates for up to three days before and after AIA26 (based on availability), making it easy to extend your stay.

New ways to celebrate—and have fun

Connection takes center stage at AIA26, with new and returning experiences designed to bring the community together.

AIA26 Opening Night Party: Kick off AIA26 on the San Diego waterfront with food, drinks, live music, and connection.
The Party!: Back by popular demand, this high-energy night returns to AIA26 at Parq Nightclub with drinks, dancing, and plenty of time to connect.
Convocation Gala: The AIA College of Fellows brings back its signature reception and dinner, honoring the newest Fellows while welcoming all attendees.

New ways to earn CE

With nearly 350 expert-led sessions, you can earn your HSW, GBCI, RIBA, and AIA LU credits for the year! Choose from seven curated tracks—or mix and match to build your own CE experience:

NEW! Practical AI for Every Architect, hosted by Technology in Architectural
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant horizon—it’s becoming part of everyday practice. The 2026 TAP Symposium introduces a new AI Summit focused on the strategic impact of AI in practice.

This full-day program explores accessible, off-the-shelf tools already reshaping task management, documentation, coordination, visualization, and decision-making—from Autodesk Assistant to Copilot and beyond. Spanning the full arc of project delivery and firm operations, sessions examine both analytical and creative applications of AI, offering practical insights firms of all sizes can use right now.

Ready to register?

Don’t miss your chance to experience AIA26 in San Diego—four days of learning, networking, and inspiration designed to prepare you and your firm for what’s next.

Register today to secure your spot and take full advantage of everything the architecture and design event of the year has to offer!