Conference Highlights 2024

Housing: Pushing The Envelope Draws More than 700 to Niagara Falls

The OAA held its 2024 Conference in Niagara Falls from May 22 to 24, with more than 700 attendees coming together for a learning program focused on Housing: Pushing The Envelope. In addition to a slate of Continuing Education sessions with international experts that combined in-class learning with experiential opportunities in and around the Niagara region, the gathering also included special events like the Plenary, the Niagara Society of Architects (NSA) event, and the 2024 President's Reception and Celebration of Excellence.

See below to learn more about the Conference events, and view photo galleries and videos.

Event Highlights

NSA Event

TUESDAY | MAY 21

The NSA Welcome Event, hosted by the Niagara Society of Architects, kicked off Conference as a social event at the newly inaugurated Niagara Falls Exchange.

Plenary

WEDNESDAY | MAY 22

This year’s Conference Plenary brought together experts from the fields of architecture, urban planning, and development to explore innovative approaches to dealing with the issue of housing affordability.

aerial image of light show at Niagara Parks Power Station

Opening Night Party

WEDNESDAY | MAY 22

The OAA’s opening night party at the Niagara Parks Power Station celebrated history and innovation, showcasing the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River.

table of individuals sitting at table preparing to eat lunch

Recognition Lunch

THURSDAY | MAY 23

This year’s Recognition Lunch took place at the Niagara Falls Convention Centre. OAA President Settimo Vilardi, Executive Director Kristi Doyle, and Vice President Lara McKendrick emceed the event, recognizing the careers of architects and other allies.

2024 Celebration of Excellence host Erica Ehm

President's Reception & Celebration of Excellence

THURSDAY | MAY 23

This year’s Celebration of Excellence event took place inside the Niagara Falls Convention Centre. Hosted by media host and iconic MuchMusic TV personality, Erica Ehm, the event celebrated the achievements of our 2024 OAA Design Excellence Award winners.

Archifête

THURSDAY | MAY 23

The beautiful Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, designed with a significant heritage preservation component, served as a backdrop for the OAA’s annual Archifête party in Niagara Wine Country.

ConEd and Experiential Learning

WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY | MAY 22- MAY 24

Conference sessions featured sponsored sessions and curated panels that combined in-class learning with experiential opportunities around the Niagara region.

Recreational Tours

WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY | MAY 22 - MAY 24

As part of the OAA’s 2024 Conference, attendees had the opportunity to discover the hidden architectural gems, picturesque landscapes, and rich heritage of Niagara Falls through a variety of inspiring walking tours.

Image of Toni Morgan delivering keynote on stage

Closing Keynote: Toni Morgan

FRIDAY | MAY 24

The OAA's Keynote on May 24 with Tonika Morgan, who discussed her path from homeless to Harvard graduate, highlighted architecture's role in housing and self-empowerment, capping three days of insightful exploration and inspiration.

Conference 2025

2025 OAA Conference banner featuring Ottawa Tulips

Conference 2025

NEXT YEAR'S CONFERENCE

The 2025 OAA Conference, taking place in Ottawa, will focus on the theme Reshaping Communities.

2024 Conference Sponsors

The OAA would like to thank our generous sponsors for supporting the 2024 OAA Annual Conference.