Terroir: Ethical and Empathic Place for a Common Future
Terroir: Ethical and Empathic Place for a Common Future will explore how the local essence of a place can shape a better, more sustainable world. Join us in July 2026 for an architecture conference that brings together design, craft, and innovation.
Event information
Everything begins somewhere - rooted in a place and has a story. Though it may transform along the way, its essence remains. 'Terroir' captures this local essence, embodying the uniqueness of a place and what emerges from it. Terroir is design, architecture, and the built environment. It's rooted in the historical, social, economic, and environmental context of a place.
It is our pleasure to welcome you to the GBIA/AAE (Grenfell-Baines School of Architecture and the Association of Architectural Educators) Architecture Conference 2026. In this year's conference, we will explore how Terroir informs architectural design that responds to local culture. We will be looking at the concept through the theme ‘Terroir: Ethical and Empathic Place for a Common Future’.
This theme reflects a desire and need for a paradigm shift. It calls for a move towards creating sustainable communities. It also focuses on building resilient systems that support them. These efforts are based on our shared values and a common goal for a more sustainable future. The theme represents the design, science, safety, and sustainability of craft and construction through creativity and innovation.
The event is open to practitioners, academics, researchers and students from across the UK and around the world. We welcome anyone who is passionate about and wants to discuss the future of architecture and the built environment.
Attendees will get the chance to explore new ideas, share research, and connect with a diverse community of fellow academics and professionals. They will get the chance to engage through a range of sessions including:
- Panel discussions
- Flow discussion
- Debates
- Workshops
We thank you for joining us at this year's event and look forward to seeing you there.
There are various accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. To find out more, visit the Visit Preston website.
For hotels closest to the campus, you can check out the Preston International Hotel and Premier Inn Preston Central.
- Student fee: £90
- Early bird fee: £185
- Delegate fee: £245
- Conference dinner: £50 + VAT
- Conference field trips: TBC
We look forward to inspiring forward-thinking discussions and fresh insights through the that contributions that will take place during the event.
Conference contributions can include:
- 2500 papers (to be included in post-conference proceedings and a 20-minute presentation at the conference)
- Workshop proposals (up to 2 hours in length)
- Provocations and Debates
- Digital poster
- Panel discussions
- A temporary built structure reflecting the idea of PLACE as a launch space (1 day)
- A1 poster proposals
Abstracts will be double-blind peer reviewed by the AAE (Association of Architectural Educators) 2026 organising committee. All papers accepted for the conference will be included in full online proceedings published after the conference. Selected authors will be invited to submit proposals for papers in a special issue of Charette (opens in a new tab) the journal of the AAE.
International Keynote Speaker (TBC)
A leading international figure in modern architecture will be speaking on global design innovation and sustainable urban futures. They come with a wealth of experience ranging from large-scale urban planning to human-centred design.
They will be looking at how architecture responds to the world’s most urgent challenges. These will include issues such as climate resilience and cultural identity. They will also be offering global perspectives that inspire forward-thinking practice.
UK Keynote Speaker (TBC)
We will also be having a distinguished UK-based academic speak at the event. They will address the evolving role of architecture in shaping inclusive, sustainable communities.
Drawing on the latest research and practice in the UK, they will explore how design, policy, and social responsibility are connected. They will also discuss how UK architecture continues to lead in environmental and community-focused innovation.