September 29, 2026
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) has launched the RAIC Global Design Exchange, a new international initiative designed to connect Canadian architects with leading architectural practices, projects, ideas and professional networks around the world.
The inaugural Global Design Exchange will take place September 13–17, 2027, in Germany, with a Canadian delegation participating in an immersive program in Düsseldorf and Berlin.
Registration for the inaugural exchange is expected to open November 23, 2026, with participation limited to approximately 25 to 35 people. Join the waiting list here.
The Global Design Exchange is designed to give Canadian architects direct exposure to how architecture is conceived, delivered and managed in international markets.
Rather than operating as a conventional conference, the program will provide a smaller, immersive experience incorporating architectural project visits, studio visits, discussions with local practitioners and industry leaders, and opportunities to develop relationships with German architectural institutions and peers.
The inaugural program will conclude in Berlin in connection with German Architects’ Day.
RAIC CEO Mike Brennan said the initiative reflects the increasingly international environment in which architecture is practised and is intended to help Canadian architects understand different approaches to both architectural design and the business of delivering projects.
The Germany program will examine contemporary architectural practice alongside broader trends influencing the built environment.
Topics are expected to include innovation, materiality, craftsmanship, sustainability and urban transformation, as well as how architectural firms collaborate, compete, develop business and respond to changing professional expectations.
Participants will also have opportunities to examine the cultural, economic and regulatory environments influencing architectural practice in Germany.
The RAIC intends for participants to bring knowledge, perspectives and professional relationships developed through the exchange back to their firms and communities in Canada.
Gaggenau has joined the RAIC Global Design Exchange as its Founding Patron, supporting the development of the international initiative.
The partnership reflects shared interests in architecture, design, craftsmanship, materiality and international knowledge exchange.
Participants are also expected to gain exposure to Gaggenau’s international design activities and receive an immersive look at the company’s headquarters and production facility in Lipsheim.
According to Gaggenau, the partnership is intended to encourage cultural dialogue, professional relationships and the exchange of ideas between Canadian architects and international design communities.
The Global Design Exchange is being developed as an ongoing RAIC initiative rather than a one-time international program.
Future exchanges are intended to give Canadian architects opportunities to learn directly from other markets, establish relationships with international practices and institutions, and explore different approaches to architectural practice and business.
RAIC President Johanna Hurme said Canadian architects have expertise and perspectives to contribute internationally while also benefiting from understanding how architects in other countries are responding to common challenges.
The initiative will also support the RAIC’s efforts to strengthen relationships with international architectural organizations, governments, institutions, industry and design communities.
Germany was selected as the first destination because of its established architectural and design culture and opportunities to explore both emerging and established approaches to the built environment.
The preliminary program will run in Düsseldorf and Berlin from September 13–17, 2027. Additional details about participating architectural practices, projects and special events will be announced as planning progresses.
Participation will be limited, and members of Canada’s architectural community interested in the inaugural program can join the waitlist ahead of the anticipated November 23, 2026 registration opening.
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