About this Event
Celebrate the launch of the RIBA Canada Chapter in Montreal
This two-day event marks an important milestone for RIBA's international community, bringing together members, students and built environment professionals from across Canada and beyond for the appointment of the inaugural Chapter Committee, a programme of architectural discussion and networking opportunities.
The programme opens on 22 October with the launch of the and a keynote lecture by award-winning architect Anna Liu, co-founder of Tonkin Liu. Hosted in partnership with the Peter Guo-hua Fu School of Architecture at McGill University, the evening offers an opportunity to engage with pioneering architectural ideas and connect with fellow professionals.
On 23 October, the RIBA Canada Symposium will explore the role and future ambitions of the new Chapter, highlighting contemporary Canadian architecture, Montreal's rich architectural heritage, and perspectives from practitioners across the profession.
Alongside thought-provoking discussions, attendees will have opportunities to network, share ideas and build professional connections with colleagues from across Canada and the wider RIBA community.
As part of the celebrations, RIBA will showcase Canadian design talent through a digital exhibition featuring the work of RIBA Canada members and practices.
The event concludes with a guided tour of the iconic Habitat 67 development and an evening drinks reception. Whether you are a student, emerging professional or established practitioner, join us to celebrate this exciting milestone and help shape the future of the RIBA Canada Chapter
Programme overview
Thursday 22 October 2026
5.30pm
Doors open
6.00-7.30pm
Keynote lecture by award-winning UK architect Anna Liu, Tonkin Liu Anna will share the nature focused design process of Tonkin Liu , “Asking Looking Playing Making” published by RIBA last year. The work of Tonkin Liu is one of 20 projects featuring in the RIBA Difficult Sites exhibition.
7.30pm to 9.00pm
RIBA Difficult Sites exhibition opening reception and networking.
Friday 23 October 2026
9.00am to 9.30am
Arrival, registration and coffee.
9.30am to 10.00am
RIBA Canada: vision, purpose and global context
Welcome from RIBA Americas, an introduction to the inaugural RIBA Canada Chapter Committee, and an overview of the Chapter's aspirations and future activities.
10.00am to 10.20am
Canada within the RIBA Americas region
An overview of Canada's role within the wider RIBA Americas network.
10.20am to 10.30am
Questions from the floor.
10.30am to 11.30am
Panel discussion: architecture conservation and contemporary adaptation (ERA)
Exploring how architects can balance the conservation of existing buildings and cultural heritage with contemporary needs and design interventions.
11.45am to 12.15pm
Contemporary Canadian architecture: practice, place and identity
A discussion exploring contemporary architectural identity across Canada, including regional approaches to design, climate and place, cultural contexts, innovation, housing and international practice.
12.15pm to 1.30pm
Lunch.
1.30pm to 4.00pm
Habitat 67 tour: (ticketed activity, with transport included in the ticket price) Guided architecture tour of the iconic Habitat 67. A unique opportunity to explore this masterpiece designed by Moshe Safdie.
5.30pm to 7.30pm
Official RIBA Canada Chapter launch reception, including welcome remarks, committee acknowledgements, drinks and networking.
7:45pm
Event concludes
As part of the launch celebrations, RIBA has invited Canadian RIBA Members to participate in a digital exhibition showcasing projects and practice work from across the country. The exhibition will be presented during the Chapter launch and symposium programme.
Further programme details, speakers and registration information will be announced in due course.
Location
McGill University School of Architecture, Macdonald-Harrington Building, Room G-10 (Lecture Hall), 815 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3E8
Terms and Conditions
- Photos will be taken during this event, and the images will be used to publicise the event
- By accepting an invitation or purchasing a ticket you consent to being photographed or filmed as a visitor attending the event.
- On entry to the event, you agree to accept and abide by any venue rules.
- RIBA reserves the right to refuse admission to any ticket holder.
- By registering you consent to your data being processed by RIBA in the United Kingdom, in accordance with under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
Event venue & nearby stays
Macdonald-Harrington Building, McGill University School of Architecture, Macdonald-Harrington Building, Room G-10 (Lecture Hall), Montréal, Canada
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