Special Events

May 5, 2026 - May 8, 2026

UIA Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards 2023

The UIA Friendly and Inclusive Spaces Awards 2023 showcase outstanding examples of accessible and inclusive architecture from around the world. As part of the UIA Architecture for All (AFA) work programme, this touring exhibition highlights the architect's responsibility to ensure that accessibility and inclusive design are essential components of architectural design, construction and education. The exhibition promotes good practice in accessible and inclusive urban design and architecture, and has been presented internationally in Portugal, Ireland, Egypt, Philippines, and Hong Kong.

Location: Orca Room

Time: All day

Cinema Immersion : Where Architecture Meets the Screen

Powered by ARTS.FILM & Le FIFA

Step into a cinematic journey through the worlds of architecture, design, and urban space. Discover how film captures the stories behind the built environment—its creators, its challenges, and its beauty. Visit our booth to explore ARTS.FILM, a curated streaming platform by the International Festival of Films on Art (Le FIFA), showcasing documentaries and films that illuminate the artistry of the spaces we live in.

Location: Beluga Room

Time: All day

National Student Work Showcase

Each year CASA-ACÉA puts out a call for submissions from architecture students across Canada. The work is displayed and shared as part of a National Student Work Showcase. This is a platform to curate and highlight the work of students enrolled in CACB accredited schools of architecture throughout Canada.

There are three categories based on the level of education: 1st/2nd year undergraduate, 3rd/4th year undergraduate and masters. The Showcase Committee selects a panel of jury members (academics and practitioners) that evaluate all submissions. Projects are graded based on resolution, representation and relevance. CASA also runs a People's Choice Awards category where the winner is determined by public vote.

This year, in addition to having their posters displayed at the RAIC Conference in Vancouver, the winners will receive a Canadian Architect subscription, a book by the Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA), and an one year Enscape license.

Location: Junior Foyer

Time: All day

May 5, 2026

RAIC Keynote Lunch: Designing in a National Park: Lessons from the Banff 200‑Block Competition

In partnership with RAIC, Parks Canada presents an inside look at the design competition that is guiding the redevelopment of Banff’s 200‑Block. This session highlights how a national competition format was used to attract leading design teams, foster transparent decision‑making, and balance architectural innovation with Parks Canada’s mandate. Speakers will discuss the competition framework, evaluation process, key design themes, and the unique considerations of planning in a protected heritage setting. Participants will leave with insights applicable to future competitions and complex public‑sector design challenges.

Location: Grand Ballroom

Time: 12:00pm - 1:30pm

Peter OrtvedPrincipalCS&P Architects

×

Peter Ortved

Peter Ortved is a Principal of CS&P Architects with over 40 years experience in practice. Peter assumes primary responsibility for project development spearheading many of CS&P’s most significant civic, educational, justice and recreational projects. Peter has exceptional knowledge of professional practice, the construction industry, and urban design issues. He has led projects throughout Ontario and other provinces, including projects in excess of $100 million. He has served as a Professional Advisor or Juror for national and international architectural design competitions. These have included major public commissions for Queen’s University, City of Toronto, CreateTO, PSPC in Ottawa and Parks Canada.

Daniella RubelingField Unit Superintendent - Banff National Park, Parks CanadaBSc., MA.

×

Daniella Rubeling

Daniella Rubeling (she/her/elle) has over 23 years of experience in parks and protected areas management, visitor experience, program development and interpretation. From her beginnings at Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, to almost two decades with Alberta Parks, she joined the team at Parks Canada and Banff National Park in 2020 as the Visitor Experience Manager. She holds a Bachelor’s in Animal Biology and a Master’s in Environmental Education and Communication and is currently Project Lead for the redevelopment of the 200-Block of Banff Avenue.

Melissa SarrasinArchitect and Senior Project Manager, Parks CanadaMAA

×

Melissa Sarrasin

Melissa Sarrasin is an Architect and Senior Project Manager with Parks Canada. She currently serves as the Project Manager for the 200-Block Banff Avenue Redevelopment Project in Banff National Park. With 19 years of experience, Melissa has designed projects ranging from high‑containment science laboratories and university college buildings to a community library in rural Ghana. Her portfolio spans not‑for‑profit, non‑profit, and institutional organizations, with a consistent focus on creating spaces that advance community needs and long‑term sustainability. Melissa brings strong expertise in stakeholder engagement and program development, ensuring that project outcomes meaningfully reflect the priorities and identities of the communities they serve.

Thierry MontpetitGiasemi Project AdvisoryFRAIC OAA (retired) OAQ (retired member)

×

Thierry Montpetit

Thierry Montpetit is a graduate of Carleton University (1986) with over 35 years of experience spanning equally the private sector and public sectors. He held senior leadership role for major public sector projects, including the Gatineau Preservation Centre (Library and Archives Canada) and the Renewal of the Victoria Memorial Building, both recipients of Governors General Medal Awards for Architecture.

Joining the public service in 2002 Thierry has had a leading responsibility in the Long Term Vision and Plan for the Parliamentary Precinct including the Pierre Elliot Trudeau Judicial Building (NORR and Carlos Ott), the rehabilitation of the Wellington Building (NORR), the Rehabilitation of the Senate of Canada Building (DSAI) and the international Design Competition for the Block 2 Redevelopment Project (Zeidler and Chipperfield).

Emerging Professionals Mix and Mingle

Connect with fellow students, interns, and architects in their first five years of practice at this relaxed networking event designed to build community and spark new relationships. Share ideas, exchange experiences, and expand your professional network in a welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

The Emerging Professionals Mix & Mingle is a complimentary event for those in their first 5 years of practice; however, registration is required.

Location: Grand Ballroom

Time: 4:15pm - 5:30pm

Opening Keynote & Reception

Architects, Housing, and the Future of Canada

Canada’s housing crisis is not only a question of supply. It is a defining test of the country’s economic resilience, social cohesion, and long-term sovereignty. This keynote will examine the structural drivers of housing unaffordability, clarify what “affordability” truly means for households and communities, and explore why housing policy decisions made today will shape Canada’s future for generations.

Drawing on national policy analysis and professional insight, the session will challenge architects to reclaim a leadership role in shaping viable, human centred housing solutions. Through a keynote address followed by a moderated panel discussion, participants will consider how architects can move beyond reactive service delivery to become strategic initiators, collaborators, and advocates within housing systems that are currently fragmented and under strain.

Location: Pavillion

Time: 7:00pm - 10:00pm

David LeisPresidentLeis Consulting Corporation

×

David Leis

David Leis brings a rare mix of real-world leadership and big-picture thinking to Canada’s most important conversations.

Over the course of his career, he has served in senior leadership roles across industry, government, First Nations, and education. He has served as a Mayor and at various post-secondary institutions. These roles have placed him at the centre of community building, institutional leadership, and decision-making when the stakes were high and the outcomes mattered.

David studied at the University of Waterloo, Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson), and the University of Toronto, and completed his Master’s in Public Policy at Queen’s University.

Today, David is President and CEO of the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, where he leads one of Canada’s most active and independent and non-partisan public policy organizations. Frontier undertakes research on many key public policy areas including housing and publishing annually the Demographia Housing Affordability Index.

He also hosts Leaders on the Frontier Show, which airs on Merit TV Canada and Miracle Channel and is gaining rapid traction online, reaching hundreds of thousands of Canadians every week.

An engaging and energetic public speaker, David believes deeply in the power of conversation and civic will. He is optimistic about Canada’s future and convinced that with leadership, openness, and resolve, the country’s best days are still ahead.

Silvio BaldassarraChair Emeritus, NORRB.Arch, OAA, FRAIC, NORR Chair Emeritus, RAIC Chair RAPP

×

Silvio Baldassarra

Silvio Baldassarra, OAA, FRAIC, is an Architect with over 52 years of experience in design, management and delivery of some of Canada’s important buildings such as the Toronto Union Station, Toronto Sky Dome, Calgary Courts Centre, Ontario Court of Justice, 180 Wellington, The Canadian Plaza at the Peace and many other that have made a meaningful contribution to the pursuit of design excellence in the built environment and the future of architecture.

Today Silvio holds positions of NORR Chair Emeritus, RAIC Chair Advisors to Professional Practice ( RAPP ), President of Architettura and Design ICFF, and past founder and host of NORR ed.

Silvio believes that we as Architects never stop learning, informed from the past, the present an projecting into the future. He also believes that there is no distinction between Architecture and Engineering that it is one and that Architecture cannot exist on its own. That comes from lessons he discovered on Sky Dome, the worlds first retractable roof and carried throughout all of the projects including the Canadian Plaza at the Peace Bridge. That is why he founded NORRed and hosted it for 18 years as an education series available worldwide and is why today Silvio continues his passion for architecture/engineering education to audiences through the RAIC and ICFF.

Silvio has been recognized in multiple design and industry awards while at NORR and he personally was recognized as a Fellow of the RAIC 2010, Ontario Renew Award 1986, ASTM Sky Dome Award 1990, Premio Laziale dell’anno, Lazio Federation of Ontario 2017, Ordine Al Merito, Congress of Italian Canadians 2019 and King Charles III Coronation Medal 2024.

Johanna HurmeManaging Partner, 5468796 ArchitectureMAA, AAA, OAA, SAA, AIBC, NSAA, FRAIC, LEED AP

×

Johanna Hurme

Johanna Hurme is an architect and co-founder/managing partner of 5468796 Architecture. Born in Helsinki and educated at Aalto University and the University of Manitoba, her work is shaped by Nordic sensibilities emphasizing clarity, restraint, and social engagement. The firm has received numerous awards, including the 2025 RAIC Architectural Practice Award, the Prix de Rome in Architecture for Canada, the Architectural League of New York Emerging Voices, and represented Canada at the 2012 Venice Architecture Biennale.

An advocate for housing and design culture, Johanna has initiated and co-created programs such as Table for 12 + 1200, Chair Your Idea, Design Quarter, and Walk-Winnipeg. She has served as Chair of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce and is the current President-Elect of RAIC | Architecture Canada. Johanna has held teaching positions at IIT Chicago, Cornell University, and universities across Canada, and most recently she has been invited to teach design at Harvard GSD beginning in September of 2026. She lectures internationally, and is co-author of Innovative Solutions for Creating Sustainable Cities (2018) and platform:MIDDLE: Architecture for Housing for the 99% (2023).

Sponsored by:

May 6, 2026

Expo Networking Lunch

The Expo Networking Lunch is included with the Premier All Access Pass, Four-Day Conference Con Ed Pass, and Conference Day Pass (May 6). For all other pass types, a separate ticket purchase is required.

Location: Pavillion Foyer

Time: 12:00pm - 1:00pm

Sponsored by:

Architecture Expo: Industry Showcase

Join us for a brand-new addition to the RAIC Conference on Architecture — the Architecture Expo: Industry Showcase. Enjoy back-to-back speed sessions featuring diverse, thought-provoking topics, connect with industry peers, while earning up to four hours of learning hours*.

The Architecture Expo: Industry Showcase is included with all pass types.

Location: Industry Showcase Lounge, Expo Floor

Time: 1:00pm - 5:30pm

Sponsored by:

RAIC College of Fellows and Syllabus Graduates Convocation

The RAIC College of Fellows is pleased to continue its long-standing tradition of hosting an in-person Convocation Ceremony and RAIC Syllabus Graduation Convocation. This special event will celebrate the induction of the 2026 Fellows and Honorary Fellows and the achievements of this year’s Syllabus graduates. The ceremony will also feature a distinguished guest keynote speaker (more details to come).

The Convocation Ceremony is included with all pass types.

Location: Playhouse

Time: 6:00pm - 7:45pm

Sponsored by:

RAIC College of Fellows and Syllabus Graduates Reception

Join us in continuing the RAIC College of Fellows’ long-standing tradition with a Convocation Reception held immediately following the ceremony. This relaxed and celebratory gathering will honour the newly inducted 2026 Fellows and Syllabus graduates, offering a meaningful opportunity to connect and celebrate their achievements with peers and colleagues.

The Convocation Reception is included with all pass types.

Location: Cosentino (1640 W 3rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1K2)

Time: 8:00pm - 10:00pm

Sponsored by:

May 7, 2026

RAIC Keynote Lunch: Moshe Safdie: Architecture Across Time

Join internationally renowned architect Moshe Safdie for a special keynote lunch presentation reflecting on a remarkable career that has shaped architecture and cities across the world. One of the few architects to receive both the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada Gold Medal and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal, Safdie will present several projects from different stages of his practice, offering insight into the ideas, challenges, and ambitions that informed their design.

Following the presentation, Safdie will join Vancouver-based critic, historian, and curator Trevor Boddy FRAIC for a moderated on-stage conversation exploring the evolution of architectural practice, the role of architects in shaping cities, and the lessons a lifetime of work offers the next generation.

The session will be introduced by Johanna Hurme FRAIC and will offer rare access to the thinking of one of architecture’s most influential voices.

Following his keynote address, Moshe will be signing his memoir, If Walls Could Speak: My Life in Architecture, at a dedicated table in the Grand Ballroom. If Walls Could Speak: My Life in Architecture will be available for purchase on-site, so don't miss this opportunity to get your copy signed.

Location: Grand Ballroom

Time: 12:30pm - 2:00pm

Moshe SafdieFounding PartnerCC, FAIA, FRAIC, OAA, SIA

×

Moshe Safdie

Moshe Safdie is an architect, urban planner, educator, theorist, and author. Over a 60-year career, Safdie has explored the essential principles of socially responsible design through a comprehensive and humane design philosophy. His wide range of completed projects include cultural, educational, and civic institutions; neighborhoods and public parks; housing; mixed-use urban centers and airports; and master plans for existing communities and entirely new cities. A citizen of Israel, Canada, and the United States, Safdie’s projects can be found in North and South America, the Middle East and throughout Asia.

Safdie has been the recipient of numerous awards, honorary degrees, and civil honors including the Companion of the Order of Canada, the Gold Medal from both the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and the American Institute of Architects, the National Design Award for Lifetime Achievement by the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian, and recently the Wolf Prize in Architecture—awarded for a career motivated by the social concerns of architecture and formal experimentation.

Trevor BoddyAdjunct Professor, School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, University of Calgary, Alberta B.A. M.Arch. FRAIC, AIA hon

×

Trevor Boddy

Trevor Boddy FRAIC is a critic and curator of contemporary architecture/urbanism, and a Vancouver-based consulting urban designer.

His most recent books are: CITY-BUILDER: The Architecture of James K M Cheng (Images, Melbourne); Glacier Skywalk, and Stantec: Airports (both Figure 1 Press, Vancouver). His book The Architecture of Douglas Cardinal, (NeWest Press) was awarded the Alberta Book of the Year Award, and his writing on buildings and cities has garnered Canadian and international awards, including: the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada Advocacy Award; the Jack Webster Journalism Award; and UIA/CICA’s Pierre Vago Prize for best architectural criticism worldwide, with texts published in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Japanese.

As a curator, Boddy created the 2014 “Rethink: Behind San Diego’s Skyline” (for Bosa), and the “Vancouverism: Architecture Builds the City” exhibition for the 2008 London Festival of Architecture, remounted 2009 in Paris, then in Vancouver for the 2010 Olympics, and was instigator and co-curator of the 2014 "CRITICAL JUNCTURES" symposium at London's Victoria and Albert Museum. He has a Masters in architecture from the University of Calgary, where he received the Best Thesis prize. He has held academic positions at UBC, Oregon, Manitoba, Carleton and Toronto, and lectures globally on contemporary design.

Sponsored by:

RAIC Foundation Awards

Join us for the 2026 RAIC Foundation Awards Ceremony, where this year’s grants, bursaries, scholarships, and awards will be presented to recipients attending the conference. This inspiring event offers a special opportunity to meet and celebrate the emerging generation of leaders shaping the future of the Canadian architectural profession.

The RAIC Foundation Awards Ceremony is included with all pass types.

Location: Junior D

Time: 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Sponsored by:

Studio Crawl

Experience a unique opportunity to explore the offices of leading architectural practices in downtown Vancouver. Attendees and the general public are invited to embark on a self-guided evening across the city, discovering renowned studios, meeting design teams, and gaining insight into their creative spaces and projects.

The Studio Crawl is included with all pass types.

Location: AFBC; Diamond Schmitt Architects; FaulknerBrowns; Francl Architecture; hcma architecture + design; HDR; Perkins&Will; Stantec Architecture; Urban Arts

Time: 4:00pm - 7:30pm

Last Stop

Wrap up the Studio Crawl with an evening of socializing, music, food, and fun at the Last Stop event. Join fellow attendees to unwind, connect, and celebrate the close of this lively night in true Vancouver style. The venue will be announced soon—stay tuned for details on this memorable experience.

The Last Stop event is included with the Premier All Access Pass. This is a ticketed event; tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets will not be available at the door.

Location: Henriquez Partners Architects (598 W Georgia Street)

Time: 7:30pm - 10:00pm

Sponsored by:

May 8, 2026

Lunch with a Fellow

The Power of Beauty: Why it matters

Why do we remember buildings, locations and experiences? Even a place visited in our childhood can conjure emotions that make an impact on us through the memories they create. Brooks and Scarpa will explain the creative process that aspires to make a lasting impression out of even a brief encounter.

Beauty is deeply intertwined with human values, social structures, and individual well-being. Its relevance can be seen in the way societies and cultures celebrate, pursue, and define beauty. It impacts almost every aspect of life from art and architecture to daily routines and social norms.

Beauty is the promise of happiness.” Happiness is one of our fundamental human needs and Beauty fulfills that promise. Buildings that we admire are ultimately those which, in a variety of ways, extol the values we think worthwhile. Whether through material innovation , form, colors or service to society, qualities such as friendliness, kindness, subtlety, strength and intelligence are part of what we believe are beautiful. . Our sense of beauty and our understanding of the nature of what is good are intertwined and inseparable.
Brooks and Scarpa's work is deeply rooted in conditions of the everyday, and works with our perception and preconceptions to allow us to see things in new ways. They do this, not by escaping the restrictions of practice, but by looking, questioning and reworking the very process of design and building, rethinking the way things normally get done – with material, form, construction, even financing –– and to subsequently redefine it to cull out it’s latent potentials – making the “ordinary extraordinary.

Lunch with a Fellow is included with the Premier All Access Pass, Four-Day Conference Con Ed Pass, and Conference Day Pass (May 8). For all other pass types, a separate ticket purchase is required.

Location: Grand Ballroom

Time: 12:00pm - 1:30pm

Angela Brooks
FAIA, LEEDTM Accredited Professional, BD+C, ENV SP
Brooks Scarpa Huber Architects

×

Angela Brooks

FAIA, LEEDTM Accredited Professional, BD+C, ENV SP
Brooks Scarpa Huber Architects

Angela Brooks was the first woman to receive the AIA California Maybeck Award and is a strong advocate for the transformative power of good design. In 2022, she received the National AIA Gold Medal. She views architecture as a tool for the triple bottom line, creating spaces that help communities flourish. Beyond buildings, she advances societal wellbeing through policy work and dedicated service to professional organizations. A recognized leader in environmental and social-equity design, she leads her firm’s housing, policy initiatives, and overall management.

Lawrence Scarpa
FAIA
Brooks Scarpa Huber Architects

×

Lawrence Scarpa

FAIA
Brooks Scarpa Huber Architects

Lawrence Scarpa is internationally recognized for using conventional materials in innovative ways and is a pioneer of sustainable design. In 2022, he received the National AIA Gold Medal. His more than 200 awards include numerous National AIA honors, the Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt National Design Award, and multiple AIA COTE Top Ten Green Building Awards. His work has been exhibited worldwide, and his firm, Brooks + Scarpa, received National and California Architecture Firm Awards.

Sponsored by:

Archi-Poetry

Join us for this year’s Archi-Poetry event, where delegates can explore the intersection of poetry and architecture through an immersive and inspiring experience. This special session invites attendees to listen, reflect, and exchange ideas with award winning Red River Métis poet, Gregory Scofield. Also participating in the event will be Nisga'a architect (and poet!) Patrick Stewart. The event is co-hosted by Ted Landrum and Derek Deland.

Location: Junior D

Time: 3:45pm - 4:45pm

Ted Landrum
Archi-Poet
Toronto Metropolitan University

Derek Deland
Principal Design Architect
BSc BArch MRAIC Architect AIBC

×

Derek Deland

Principal Design Architect
BSc BArch MRAIC Architect AIBC

Multi award winning Design Architect & Writer. Highly creative, decades of experience, tech-savvy, design awards including IAKS/IOC, currently nominated for 2026 RAIC Award. Work published in Spacing, Architizer, above/ground press, Concrete Trends ZA, U of Dalian Press CN, international design books & magazines. All-typology design, with special energy for cultural, civic, art, towers, sport, skatepark, gnarchitecture. Derek’s architecture, be it zen/dynamic, minimal/maximal, sculptural/cinematic, positive/negative, brutal/civilized, tectonic/stereotomic, mute/articulate, primal/futurist, witty/direct, is always deeply invested in the Art of architecture.

×

Ted Landrum

Archi-Poet
Toronto Metropolitan University

Ted Landrum is a teacher, critic, artist and poet. Publications include Midway Radicals & Archi-Poems (Signature Editions, 2017), Room to Room: Poetry & Architecture in Conversation (2018), Table for Four (2020), This City is Read (2014); NY Gist (1997), and a recent interview: "The City is 1,000 Poems" in Poetics of Place (TUDelft, 2025). Ted has taught architecture since 2006, at three schools of architecture, most recently Toronto Metropolitan University. Find more at https://www.ubuloca.com/

Sponsored by:

RAIC's President's Reception

Join us for the President’s Reception—an hour of lively conversation, drinks, and connection before the Celebration of Excellence: President’s Dinner, one of the Conference’s most anticipated events recognizing the recipients of the RAIC Awards of Excellence. Enjoy this opportunity to unwind and network with colleagues in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

The President’s Reception is included with the Premier All Access Pass. For all other pass types, a separate ticket purchase is required. A limited number of tickets will be available.

Location: Pavillion

Time: 6:00pm - 7:00pm

RAIC's President's Dinner

Join us for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence in Canadian architecture. The President’s Dinner honours individuals and teams whose work and commitment exemplify the highest standards of design, innovation, and professional integrity. Enjoy a memorable night of fine dining, conversation, and recognition of those shaping the architectural landscape today.

The President’s Dinner is included with the Premier All Access Pass. For all other pass types, a separate ticket purchase is required. A limited number of tickets will be available.

Location: Grand Ballroom

Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm

After/Parti Nightcap

Wrap up the RAIC 2026 Conference with the After/Parti Nightcap, a relaxed late-evening social following the President’s Dinner. Join colleagues and friends to unwind, continue conversations, and enjoy music from a DJ as we toast the close of an inspiring week together. Each ticket includes one complimentary drink, with additional beverages available for purchase. This informal gathering offers an inviting way to stay connected and end the Conference on a high note.

The After/Parti Nightcap is included with the Premier All Access Pass. For all other pass types, a separate ticket purchase is required.

Location: Pavillion Ballroom

Time: 9:00pm - late

Sponsored by: