Key events in the international architectural calendar and news from the Institute.
The world's premier gathering of architects, held every three years. The 2026 Congress takes place in Barcelona under the theme "Becoming. Architectures for a Planet in Transition," bringing together over 10,000 architects, academics, and students from around the globe.
Barcelona has been designated by UNESCO as the World Capital of Architecture 2026.
The Commonwealth Association of Architects marks its 60th anniversary with its biennial General Assembly, hosted by Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects in Auckland. The programme features keynote addresses, panel discussions, the CAA Awards ceremony, and networking events.
ABIA is a member of the CAA. This is a key event for regional and international representation.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2026 will be held right here in St. John's — a landmark moment for Antigua and Barbuda as the smallest state to host a Commonwealth summit. Leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations will gather under the theme "Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth."
As a member of the Commonwealth architecture community, ABIA recognises this historic occasion for our nation.
On 5 June 2024, ABIA hosted its 40th Anniversary Awards Gala, celebrating four decades of the architectural profession in Antigua and Barbuda. The evening included the presentation of Honorary Fellowships to four distinguished architects, a formal signing ceremony, and a reception.
"Before a building rises, it lives first in the mind of a child who dared to imagine."
On 25 February 2024, ABIA visited the Sir Novelle Richards Academy for their annual Career Day, engaging with hundreds of secondary school students about the world of architecture. Members of the Institute shared their journeys into the profession, the skills required, and the vital role architects play in shaping the built environment of Antigua and Barbuda. The session was a reminder that the next generation of Antiguan architects may already be sitting in those classrooms.
"She put on the hard hat and the whole world shifted — because she could suddenly see herself building it."
On 27 March 2023, ABIA participated in the Antigua Girls High School Career Day, introducing students to the world of architecture and the built environment. One student's decision to dress as an architect — hard hat, hi-vis vest and all — captured the spirit of the day perfectly. ABIA believes that inspiring young women to see themselves in the profession is one of the most important investments the Institute can make in the future of architecture in Antigua and Barbuda.
"Architecture is not just about buildings — it is about possibility. Every great structure begins with a young mind asking: what if?"
On 27 February 2023, ABIA participated in the Christ the King High School Career Day, sharing the world of architecture with a new generation of students. Members of the Institute connected with students one-on-one, answering questions and opening doors to a profession many had never considered. These conversations matter — because the future of architecture in Antigua and Barbuda is standing right in front of us.
ABIA members are encouraged to engage with the UIA World Congress in Barcelona, the CAA 60th General Assembly in Auckland, and CHOGM 2026 right here in Antigua and Barbuda — three landmark events for the global and Commonwealth architectural community. View details →
Nominations for the 2026 ABIA Fellowship are now open. The submission deadline is 15 May 2026. Nominations must be submitted by a registered architect in good standing with both CoAAB and ABIA. No entry fee. View nomination details →
A minimum of 20 CPD hours per cycle is required under the Architects (Professions) Regulations 2025 to maintain good standing and renew your licence. Ethics CPD remains a mandatory component. Submission deadline is 30 November 2026. View CPD requirements →
On 5 July 2023, ABIA became a founding signatory of the Commonwealth Association of Architects' Knowledge Sharing Partnership — a landmark climate pledge signed by 10 CAA member organisations including RIBA, committing to sustainable urban development across the Commonwealth. Read coverage →
The Architects (Professions) Regulations 2025 (No. 3 of 2025), published in the Official Gazette on 27 February 2025, are now in full effect. All practising architects are required to comply. Download the Regulations →
The 2026 Register of Licensed Architects, effective 14 April 2026, is now published. 26 architects are currently licensed to practise in Antigua and Barbuda. View the Register →