Operating under the theme Building Tomorrow: 60 Years Forward, the anniversary campaign will include a series of online events focused on sustainability, climate-responsive design and architectural practice across Commonwealth nations. The programme will highlight projects, practices and individuals working in diverse local contexts, with an emphasis on knowledge sharing and international collaboration.

Key themes of the anniversary programme include sustainable design approaches, climate resilience, and the role of architecture in responding to social and environmental challenges. Projects from across the Commonwealth will be featured, alongside discussions aimed at considering the future direction of the profession.

The anniversary celebrations will culminate in the CAA General Assembly in September 2026, to be hosted by the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA). This event will run concurrently with the NZIA’s own in:situ event 8-10 September. Earlybird registration is available here.

Submissions are now open for the Commonwealth Association of Architects’ 2026 Awards Programme, sponsored by environmental performance and sustainability practice Sintali.

The programme includes six award categories across professional practice and education.

Professional practice awards comprise;

• CAA Lifetime Achievement Award
• CAA Environmental Impact Award
• CAA Environmental Award for IFC EDGE Certified Projects
• CAA Social Impact Award, recognising work addressing environmental performance, sustainability and social outcomes across the Commonwealth.

The education categories also include the CAA Student Award (Years 1–3) and the CAA President’s Award (Years 4–6), acknowledging student projects responding to climate, biodiversity and social challenges.

“As the world faces unprecedented challenges from climate change and urbanisation, architects have a critical role to play in creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable built environments,” said Steven Oundo, CAA President. “The 2026 Awards Programme celebrates those who are leading the way in transforming how we design and build for future generations.”

Entries will be reviewed by international juries representing the five Commonwealth regions. Award recipients will receive a trophy and certificate, with student winners also receiving a £500 cash prize. Selected student work will be presented in an online exhibition, and winning projects will be promoted across the CAA network, with potential inclusion in the CAA Good Practice archive.

Previous winners can be seen here.