AXica. Berlin 2026: The Phoenix – Upheavals and Rebirths. Friday evening venue.
Upcoming Events & Initiatives
AIA Continental Europe continues to expand its programme with a dynamic series of conferences, gatherings, and new initiatives designed to connect members across regions and explore architecture’s evolving role in a changing world.
Berlin 2026: The Phoenix – Upheavals and Rebirths
From 7–10 May 2026, join us in Berlin for a compelling exploration of transformation in a city once divided by both wall and ideology. This year’s conference, The Phoenix, reflects on Berlin’s layered history and its ongoing reinvention as a global cultural and architectural capital. Optional extension days include visits to Potsdam (11 May) and Dessau (12 May).
The programme features expert-led tours alongside presentations from leading German practices, including Graft (Wolfram Putz), Barkow Leibinger (Frank Barkow), Sauerbruch Hutton (Matthias Sauerbruch), and Topotek 1 (Martin Rein-Cano).
Sunday’s sessions will include Illya Azaroff, 2026 President of the American Institute of Architects, alongside contributors from Bollinger + Grohmann, Behnisch Architekten, and Gustav Düsing GmbH.
Italy Section Mini Conference – Florence & Tuscany
Taking place from 19–21 June 2026 in Florence and the Tuscan countryside, this intimate gathering will be hosted at the Florence Institute of Design International and Villa Santo Stefano alle Corti. Organised by Morgan Danner, Royce Lanier, Steve Scamihorn, and Marc Di Domenico, the programme will offer a rich blend of design dialogue and cultural setting.
Further details will be shared soon.
Marseille 2026 – Save the Date
From 8–11 October 2026, with an optional extension to Aix-en-Provence, we turn to Marseille—one of the Mediterranean’s oldest and most vibrant cities. The programme will span its historic layers, from the Old Port to landmark modern and contemporary works.
Highlights include the Unité d’Habitation by Le Corbusier, housing by Fernand Pouillon, and recent projects such as the MuCEM by Rudy Ricciotti. The programme will also explore the Euroméditerranée development, featuring works by Zaha Hadid and Jean Nouvel.
Registration details will be available in May 2026.
New Initiative: Women in Architecture and Design Network
AIA Continental Europe is pleased to launch the Women in Architecture and Design (WIA/WID) Committee Network—an online platform connecting women and allies across the profession. Designed to support those leading or developing WIA/WID initiatives, the network offers resources on leadership, programming, funding, and long-term sustainability. Complete the join request form. For more information, please reach out to Kirsten Swanson.
Past InsightS
Passive Cooling Survey
Recent findings from a survey of AIA CE members in Switzerland offer valuable insights into designing without mechanical cooling systems. These reflections raise important questions about how passive design strategies might inform practice in regions still heavily reliant on mechanical systems, including Central Virginia.
