The AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design in San Diego will feature over 350 exciting sessions, including numerous sessions with an international lens. Take a look at some recommendations from the AIA Global Practice Committee below!
Wednesday, June 10
8:45am AIA International Presents: The Edge Condition in Global Architecture Practice
AIA International's half-day workshop will examines how contemporary architectural practice operates at the boundaries-geographic, cultural, environmental, technological, and organizational-that define global work today. Structured as an integrated learning experience, the program brings together AIA leadership perspectives, large-firm practice, signature practice, humanitarian work, material innovation, and regionally grounded case studies.
9:00am The History of Tijuana Architecture
From the historic Aguacaliente Casino to the current rise of high‑density development, architecture in Tijuana has evolved in direct response to the region's cross‑border relationship with San Diego. This tour will explore several significant sites and feature both past and current Tijuana architects who will discuss the city's development-from its early identity as a destination for those avoiding Prohibition to its emergence as a hub for manufacturing, tourism, and the medical industry.
2:00pm Collaborating Across Borders: Lessons from 50 Years of International Practice
This session will highlight lessons learned from 50 years of large-scale international work, with a focus on projects currently under construction in China. Through case studies showcasing the difficulties and rewards of working abroad, you'll gain insight into international design collaboration and the business practices underpinning this work. Plus, learn about an inclusive and adaptable design approach that honors local contexts while embracing international influences.
Thursday, June 11
2:30pm An Age of Uncertainty: Trade Policy & Architecture
The United States' dramatic escalation in tariffs has sent shockwaves throughout the world economy, raising questions about material costs, retaliatory policies, and economic uncertainty. Perhaps most shocking has been the rupture in the U.S. - Canada trade relationship. In this session, learn how American and Canadian architects who share a commitment to advancing architecture as a force for positive change are navigating rising costs, changes in procurement policy, negative sentiment, and more.
4:00pm Architalk: Shigeru Ban on Humanity, Sustainability, & the Future of Architecture
Shigeru Ban, Hon. FAIA, has redefined the societal role of architecture through work that unites material innovation, humanitarian service, and environmental responsibility. From pioneering paper and timber structures to globally recognized disaster-relief and community projects, his career demonstrates how design can respond to urgent human and ecological needs.
6:00pm International Religious Art & Architecture Awards Program and Reception
Co-sponsored by Faith & Form, Partners for Sacred Places, and the AIA Interfaith Design Knowledge Community, the International Religious Art and Architecture Awards Program reception will highlight designs that represent the best of building, space, and art on national and international levels.
Friday, June 12
7:30am Climate - Responsive Façades: Global Solutions & U.S. Opportunities
This session will offer a compelling study of diverse façade systems and designs that enhance sustainability and support climate adaptation and net-zero energy efforts. Through case studies from Asia, Africa, and Europe, you'll explore essential design strategies such as the latest building-integrated photovoltaic façades, adaptive solar screening systems, 21st-century solar chimneys, and more. By evaluating these design solutions' response to local environmental conditions, you'll learn how climate conditions correspond to analogous environments found across North America.
3:30pm Kengo Kuma's Lessons: Rethinking U.S. Architectural Practice
How can the principles of Japanese architecture-rooted in material honesty, cultural context, and human experience-reshape practice in the United States? Drawing on firsthand lessons from Japanese architect Kengo Kuma's North American projects, this session will explore how to translate ideas such as permeability, nature integration, and crafted detail into actionable strategies for American contexts.
6:00pm International Reception
Whether you are an international guest, international member, practice overseas, or just interested in issues surrounding global practice, please join the 2026 AIA Global Practice Committee for a reception celebrating the global reach of our profession with AIA officers, peers, and colleagues from around the world! Sponsored by KÖHLER Elevator & Escalator.
We invite everyone to join these exciting sessions during the AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design in San Diego and hope to see you there!
Thank you,
Stephanie Kinnick, AIA, LEED BD+C, RIBA
Global Practice Committee Chair 2026
AIA International Secretary 2025-2026