Architectural Institute of Japan opens 2026 conference

The Architectural Institute of Japan has launched its 2026 annual conference, themed ‘Play ‘ Play ‘ Play: Thinking about the Future of Architecture.’ The event began with an online session on September 8, followed by in-person sessions at Yasuda Women's University in Hiroshima from September 9 to 11. The conference expects approximately 11,000 participants and features thousands of academic presentations and research meetings focused on addressing challenges such as rising construction costs and declining populations.

In related developments in sustainable design, researchers from Setsunan University will showcase ‘photosynthetic architecture’ at the OSAKA SALONE 2026 design event on September 25 and 26. This technology utilizes light biofuel cells integrated into windows, walls, and roofs, allowing buildings to generate energy and produce oxygen like trees. Following recognition at the Milan Salone, the project will exhibit energy-generating screens and tables at MyDome Osaka to demonstrate the potential for circular societies.