Conference Highlights 2026

Collaboration Powering Innovation Draws More than 700 to the Waterloo Region

The OAA’s 2026 Conference, Collaboration Powering Innovation, took place throughout the Waterloo Region from May 13 to 15. The event brought together more than 700 people for learning, networking, exploring, and celebrating architecture and the profession behind it. See below to learn more about the Conference events, and view photo galleries.

Event Highlights

Donald Donald Schmitt, principal of Diamond and Schmitt Architects delivers presentation

Opening Plenary

WEDNESDAY | MAY 13

For this year's Opening Plenary, Donald Schmitt, principal of Diamond and Schmitt Architects explored how a new generation of academic buildings are serving as catalysts for innovation.

Ask the Experts Luncheon

WEDNESDAY | MAY 13

In this interactive luncheon, delegates engaged directly with product-knowledge experts in roundtable discussions.

Crowd shot of delegates socializing and drinking

Happy Hour

WEDNESDAY | MAY 13

The Happy Hour allowed delegates to network, interact with sponsors, and learn about architectural tools and building materials.

Crowd image of GVSA opening party at the Hacienda Serada

Opening Night Party

WEDNESDAY | MAY 13

The Opening Night Party, hosted by the Grand Valley Society of Architects (GVSA) at the Hacienda Serada, kicked off Conference 2026.

OAA President Lara McKendrick and OAA Councillor Bill Birdsell present the Honour Roll Award to recipient Rick Haldenby.

Recognition Plenary

THURSDAY | MAY 14

In this special Thursday plenary, we learned more about a truly landmark local hospital project, as well as celebrated those in the profession for their accomplishments.

Her Honour Edith Dumont delivers her greetings at the Celebration of Excellence

President's Reception & Celebration of Excellence

THURSDAY | MAY 14

OAA President Lara Mc Kendrick hosted this reception honouring our 2026 Award winners and welcoming our sponsors and delegates. The reception was followed by the Celebration of Excellence ceremony with special guest Her Honour, Edith Dumont.

Archifête

THURSDAY | MAY 14

The Archifête took place in the stunning Tapestry Hall which allowed guests to learn about the amazing "Meander" living sculpture from the artist himself, Philip Beesley.

Panel of panelist on a stage. One presenter is speaking on stage

ConEd and Experiential Learning

WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY | MAY 13- MAY 15

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

Closing Plenary

FRIDAY | MAY 15

The conference closed with Greg Piccini and Jason Martin exploring the rich industrial history and architectural legacy of the Waterloo Region, and how adaptive reuse projects are breathing new life into its historic buildings.

2026 Conference Sponsors

The OAA would like to thank our generous sponsors for supporting the 2026 OAA Annual Conference.