RSAW Annual Conference 2026: Reimagining What Exists

This conference will explore how we transform the buildings we already have to create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future. Reimagining what exists The RSAW 2026 Annual Conference is dedicated to one of the defining challenges and opportunities of our time: how we transform the buildings and places we already have to create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future. For decades, growth has often been associated with demolition and replacement. Today, however, architects, planners, developers, communities, and policymakers are increasingly recognising the immense value embedded within our existing buildings and infrastructure. Reuse and retrofit are no longer niche considerations; they are becoming fundamental strategies for delivering a low-carbon future while preserving the social and cultural fabric of our communities. This conference brings together thought leaders, practitioners, and changemakers from across Wales, the UK, and Europe, to explore how retrofit and adaptive reuse can serve as powerful tools for environmental stewardship, economic regeneration, and social wellbeing. By extending the life of existing buildings, reducing carbon emissions, minimising waste, and conserving resources, we can dramatically lessen the environmental impact of the built environment. But the benefits extend far beyond sustainability alone. Great architecture has always been about people. Through thoughtfulness, we can create healthier homes, revitalise our towns and city centres across Wales, support our local economy, and improve social outcomes for communities. Existing buildings hold stories, memories, and identities that connect people to place. Retaining and adapting them can strengthen community while creating opportunities for innovation, investment, and inclusive growth. Today, we will examine how design excellence, technical innovation, policy leadership, and community engagement can work together to unlock the full potential of our existing building stock. We will share lessons from successful projects, discuss emerging challenges, and explore practical solutions that demonstrate how sustainable architecture can deliver lasting value across environmental, economic, and social dimensions. As we look ahead, the question is no longer whether we should reuse and retrofit, but how we can do so at scale, with ambition, creativity, and purpose. Together, we have an opportunity to redefine progress, through how we reimagine, revitalise, and reinvest in what already exists. Outline Programme 09.00 Registrations 09.30 Welcome – Alan Francis, RSAW President 09.35 Opening from Chair (tbc) 09.40 Key note talk – WG Minister Adam Price 10.00 – Small Practice Network pecha kucha 10.30 - Morning break Session 1 10.50 Y Storfa - GWPA Architects 11.35 Nyth, Bangor - Manilo & White + Client 12.15 Lunch break Session 2 13.15 The Old Library, Cardiff - Flanagan Lawrence 14.00 TBC 14.45 Afternoon break 15.05 Dekleva-Gregoric Architects, Slovenia 15.50 Panel discussion 16.10 Inspiration Hour - Studio Bark & U-Build 17.10 – Closing words 17.30 – Networking 18.30 - End Chartered Practice group discount • for groups between 3 to 5 delegates, please apply 5% discount • for groups of 6 or more delegates, please apply 10% Please email [email protected] for a chartered practice discount code Terms and Conditions • Cancellations must be made in writing to [email protected]. No refunds can be made for cancellations notified within 7 days of the event. To transfer your ticket/s to another individual/s, please contact [email protected]. Complimentary tickets are strictly non-transferable. Please note that Eventbrite fees will not be refunded. • The details you provide will be used in line with the Data Protection Act. For information on how we will handle your personal data please see our Privacy Policy. • By accepting an invitation or purchasing a ticket you consent to being filmed or recorded as a visitor attending the event. • If the RIBA has to postpone or cancel the event the booker is entitled to a full refund of the ticket price only. • On entry to the event you agree to accept and abide by any venue rules. • The RIBA reserves the right to refuse admission to any ticket holder. - HEADLINE SPONSOR: ROCKWOOL