Great design doesn’t happen by standing still. As architects explore new ideas and learn from each other, they bring valuable insights back to the communities they serve.
That commitment to continuous learning recently took TSP Architects Greg Schoer and Seth Harwood to the AIA26 Conference on Architecture & Design in San Diego.
The event drew thousands of architects, interior designers, engineers, and others who gathered to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and discuss the future.
Among the educational sessions Schoer attended was “Architects in Workboots,” which examined ways architects and contractors can strengthen collaboration throughout a project. Topics included risk management, communication during construction, project site involvement, and building stronger working relationships among project teams.
Other sessions explored lessons learned through post-occupancy studies, integrating art into architecture, and creative methods for helping project teams identify priorities before design begins.
A particularly engaging presentation approached this challenge by introducing a gamified exercise to help owners and design teams clarify project goals.
For Schoer, the concept reinforced something already embedded at TSP.
Greg Schoer
“That session validated the importance of bringing the right people together at the very beginning of a project,” he said.
“Our First 1% meetings are built around that same philosophy by creating alignment early so everyone is working toward the same vision before design moves forward.”
By investing time in those early conversations, the TSP team develops a shared understanding of project priorities that supports collaboration across disciplines and informs thoughtful design.
Beyond the educational sessions, Schoer said one of the greatest benefits of the conference is the chance to connect with fellow architects from across the country.
“Attending the Conference on Architecture & Design is always inspiring,” he said.
“You quickly realize you’re one of thousands of architects working in different communities, but we’re all striving to improve the places where people live, work, learn, and gather. There’s a real sense of shared purpose.”
The conference also provided opportunities to explore new products and design tools that can improve project delivery and expand possibilities for future work.
Harwood, who attended the conference for the first time, was impressed with the size of the event and the number of architects and designers attending.
Seth Harwood
“The San Diego Convention Center was an incredible place to experience, with 2.6 million square feet of total venue space to tour,” he said.
He also appreciated access to educational content ranging from the history and development of building codes to designing for fire and disaster resilience.
“When you’re working day to day, you’re often in a reactive mode and responding to whatever comes your way,” Harwood said.
“A convention like this gives you the opportunity to step away from the daily pace and intentionally dedicate time to learning, continuing education, and refreshing your knowledge. It’s a valuable chance to refocus and grow as a professional.”
Continuous learning reflects one of TSP’s core values: Committed to Our Craft. Investing in professional development helps sharpen the team’s skills and equips them with the knowledge to elevate every project.
Conferences like AIA26 are one way to strengthen that commitment by sharing knowledge, reinforcing effective practices, and exploring new approaches to help deliver even greater value for clients.
