As the role of façades in modern architecture evolves, staying ahead of the latest materials, techniques, and innovations is crucial for architects and designers. Whether it's achieving aesthetic excellence, optimizing building performance, or addressing sustainability challenges, the building envelope has become a critical aspect of architectural design.
For those specifically focused on façade design, attending industry-leading events can provide the inspiration and technical knowledge necessary to create standout, future-proof designs. From discovering cutting-edge terracotta applications to exploring advanced building skins, these top events in 2025 will keep you ahead of the curve in façade innovation.
Here are the must-attend façade-centric events for architects and designers in 2025:
1. Zak World of Façades 2025
Multiple Dates & Locations: Throughout 2025, Global (London, New York, Dubai, Singapore)
Focus & Benefits: Zak World of Façades is the ultimate one-day conference for architects, designers, and engineers focused on cutting-edge façade design and engineering. With over 45,000+ attendees and 160 editions worldwide, this premier one-day global event is your chance to deepen your expertise on everything from building envelope engineering to sustainable façade innovations. Featuring keynote presentations from international experts, engaging panel discussions, and power networking sessions, this event is designed to foster creativity, push boundaries, and spark new collaborations.
Whether you're looking to discover the latest façade technologies or connect with key players across the AEC industry, Zak World of Façades provides the platform to enhance your skills, build valuable connections, and stay ahead in the world of façade design.
Who should attend: Façade engineers, architects, project managers, and developers keen on staying ahead of regional and global façade trends and engineering best practices.
2. Facades+
Multiple Dates & Locations: Throughout 2025, North America (San Francisco, New York City, Toronto, Houston, and more)
Focus & Benefits: Facades+ is an essential event for professionals seeking to stay ahead in the world of façade design and technology. The event dives deep into advanced building envelope design, fabrication techniques, and sustainability, combining expert-led workshops, panels, and case studies of real-world projects. Attendees will have the chance to learn about the latest façade systems, innovative materials, and the performance-driven designs shaping the future of architecture. Beyond technical knowledge, this conference fosters meaningful discussions on sustainability and innovation while exploring practical solutions for modern challenges in façade design.
Everything from high-performance facades, to new iconic projects across the city and region, and strategies for increasing climate resilience and energy performance. - Facades+
Who should attend: Architects, designers, engineers, contractors, fabricators, and any professionals involved in the planning, engineering, and construction of building façades. This event is perfect for those who want to enhance their expertise in building performance, energy efficiency, and façade aesthetics while networking with industry leaders.
3. BAU 2025
Dates: January 13-17, 2025
Location: Munich, Germany
Focus & Benefits: BAU is the premier global event for architecture and construction professionals, showcasing the latest advancements in building materials, technologies, and applications. While not solely dedicated to facades, attendees will gain insights into resilient, climate-friendly construction, resource efficiency, and cost-effective solutions. The trade fair offers a comprehensive view of state-of-the-art technologies that can be integrated into future projects, helping architects and planners explore innovative materials and techniques. With over 200,000 square meters of exhibition space, BAU facilitates connections across various trades, making it an essential gathering for industry stakeholders.
BAU lets architects and planners see the latest building materials and technologies, experience how they work, and find out how to put them to use in future projects. That includes new materials and material combinations with new properties as well as new technologies to meet a wide range of challenges. - BAU 2025
Who should attend: This event is tailored for architects, planners, builders, and industry professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of construction innovations and sustainable practices. Those involved in the planning and operation of buildings will particularly benefit from the extensive networking opportunities and the chance to explore comprehensive solutions for commercial and residential projects.
4. AIA Conference on Architecture 2025
Dates: June 2025
Location: Boston, MA
Focus & Benefits: The AIA Conference on Architecture serves as a pivotal gathering for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. This event is centered on fostering collaboration and innovative solutions to address the pressing environmental, social, and ethical challenges in the built environment. AIA25 will unite diverse perspectives from across the industry through networking opportunities, educational sessions, tours, and the largest expo in the field. Attendees can expect to explore the latest design trends and technologies while engaging in meaningful discussions that merge tradition with innovation.
AIA gives you a dynamic, ever-changing, infinite view into the world of architecture that informs you and makes your architecture better. - Takashi Yanai, FAIA, Ehrlich Yanai Rhee Chaney Architects (originally posted on conferenceonarchitecture.com)
Who should attend: This conference is designed for architects, design professionals, engineers, contractors, interior designers, landscape architects, and firm owners who are eager to deepen their knowledge and network with fellow leaders in the AEC community. Emerging professionals will find valuable insights and mentorship opportunities from seasoned experts, making it an essential event for anyone invested in shaping the future of architecture and design.
5. Facade Tectonics World Congress 2026
Dates: TBD (October 8-10, 2024)
Location: TBD (Salt Lake City, Utah in 2024)
Focus & Benefits: Jumping ahead into 2026, this is a biennial event you won't want to miss. The Facade Tectonics World Congress focuses on high-performance building enclosures, sustainability in façade systems, and structural innovations. Attendees will walk away with cutting-edge insights into façade technologies and sustainable design practices that enhance both aesthetic appeal and building performance.
At this action-packed event, industry experts will share highly curated findings from blind, peer-reviewed papers. We'll also feature expert-led group discussions, an Expo Hall showcasing innovations in facade design, and much-missed in-person networking opportunities.- Facade Tectonics Institute
Who should attend: Architects, engineers, façade consultants, and researchers interested in advanced façade systems, building envelope design, and material innovations.
Whether you’re exploring terracotta’s timeless appeal or diving into advanced façade technologies, these events will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and connections to take your designs to the next level. With façades becoming a cornerstone of architectural innovation, 2025 is set to offer exciting opportunities for architects and designers focused on building envelope design.
Be sure to mark your calendar and keep an eye on these events as details continue to unfold.
Did we miss any important façade-focused events? Comment below and share any that should be on the radar! Let's make sure we're all up to date with the best opportunities 2025 has to offer.
Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep pushing the boundaries of architectural design!