FSDA’s 2025-2026 Lecture Series

The Friends of San Diego Architecture presents inspiring lectures on architecture, design, and the built environment by speakers who stimulate thoughtful, community-centered discussions. After more than 40 years, the conversations continue.

Join Us in Celebrating FSDA’s 40th Anniversary and Our Region’s Legacy as a World Design Capital!
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AIA26
American Institute of Architects
National Convention

San Diego Takes Center Stage
at the
AIA Conference on Architecture & Design

Wednesday – Saturday, June 10-13, 2026
San Diego Convention Center

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As previewed by Ben Dalton and Bennett Peji during FSDA’s presentation on March 21, AIA26: The AIA Conference on Architecture & Design, is coming to San Diego this next week, June 10-13. This four-day gathering is the premier event for architects, designers, and AEC leaders — crafted to meet the moment with fresh insights, deep learning, and meaningful connection.

Dalton, president of AIA San Diego, and Peji, the executive director, spotlighted for us how the conference serves as a catalyst for practice-defining ideas through visionary keynotes, hundreds of expert-led continuing education opportunities, exclusive architect-led tours of San Diego’s most compelling built landmarks, and the industry’s largest expo of materials, technologies, and innovations shaping the future of design and practice. Ben and Bennett shared what will make AIA26 a once-in-a-lifetime experience and how San Diego’s design community is helping shape an unforgettable conference experience. For the video of FSDA’s March 2026 meeting, see: San Diego Takes Center Stage Hosting AIA National Convention.

San Diego Civic Center, circa 1970 (San Diego City Clerk Archives)

Of particular importance for San Diego will be a session on Saturday, June 13: Urban Studio: Leveraging the Power of Design for San Diego’s Civic Center Redevelopment — AIA San Diego. AIA San Diego and the Architects Foundation are leading a workshop focused on the redevelopment of San Diego’s six-block Civic Center. The site represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create lasting public value. This “Urban Studio” will combine a guided tour of the existing Civic Center with a collaborative workshop and access to the civic leaders planning its future. The registered participants will explore comparative models from other cities, including arts and culture districts, place-making strategies, urban design frameworks, and successful public spaces, and explore how thoughtful design can support community engagement. We at Friends of San Diego Architecture are looking forward to the wealth of creative ideas for the heart of San Diego that will emerge from this brainstorming session among the best minds in American architecture and design.