In architecture and interior design, staying relevant isn’t just about what you’re working on — it’s about staying connected to the broader conversation shaping the industry.

From design innovation and material trends to practice leadership and career-defining networking, industry events remain one of the most powerful ways for architects and designers to sharpen their thinking, build relationships, and gain perspective beyond the studio.

As we head into 2026, here’s our curated guide to the most valuable architecture and interior design events across Australia, the ones genuinely worth planning your year around.

Melbourne Design Week (May 2026 – Melbourne)

One of the most influential design festivals in the Asia-Pacific region, Melbourne Design Week brings together architecture, interiors, industrial design, fashion, and digital practice.

Expect city-wide exhibitions, panel discussions, studio tours, installations, and thought-provoking conversations around the future of design.

Why it matters:
Perfect for designers and architects wanting exposure to new ideas, emerging practices, and cross-disciplinary thinking.

Design Inn & AHICE Asia Pacific (May 2026 – Adelaide)

Design Inn, co-located with AHICE Asia Pacific, is a key event for those working in or adjacent to hospitality design.

It brings together architects, interior designers, developers, operators, and suppliers for curated talks, networking events, and behind-the-scenes venue tours.

Why it matters:
Essential for anyone involved in hotels, mixed-use developments, or large-scale interior projects.

Design & Build Week Australia (June 2026 – Sydney)

Held in Sydney, Design & Build Week Australia combines major exhibitions including Design Show Australia and Futurebuild.

This is one of the largest gatherings of architecture, interiors, and construction professionals in the country, featuring product launches, trend forecasts, and extensive CPD-worthy sessions.

Why it matters:
An efficient way to stay across materials, systems, sustainability, and innovation in one place.

Australian Interior Design Awards (June 2026 – Sydney)

Hosted by the Design Institute of Australia, the Australian Interior Design Awards celebrate the country’s most outstanding interior projects and practitioners.

The gala night and associated events bring together leaders across residential, commercial, hospitality, and public design.

Why it matters:
A powerful industry benchmark and an opportunity to connect with peers at the top of the profession.

Decor + Design Show (July 2026 – Melbourne)

Decor + Design Show remains Australia’s leading interior design and furnishings exhibition.

While broader than architecture alone, it’s particularly valuable for interior designers, architects working closely with interiors, and those interested in FF&E, lighting, and finishes.

Why it matters:
Trend spotting, supplier discovery, and creative inspiration, all under one roof.

Brisbane Open House (July 2026 – Brisbane)

Part of the global Open House movement, Brisbane Open House offers rare access to buildings not usually open to the public.

From civic buildings to private residences and infrastructure projects, it’s an immersive way to experience architecture as a user, not just a designer.

Why it matters:
A reminder of architecture’s impact beyond drawings and documentation.

Houses Awards & Architecture Symposium (September 2026 – Melbourne)

Presented by Architecture Media, the Houses Awards recognise excellence in residential architecture across Australia.

The accompanying Architecture Symposium features candid conversations with leading architects about practice, delivery, and the evolving residential market.

Why it matters:
Highly relevant for architects working in housing, multi-residential, and bespoke residential design.

Australian Architecture Conference (October 2026)

The Australian Architecture Conference is one of the largest national gatherings for architects and practice leaders.

The program typically covers design, leadership, policy, sustainability, and the future of architectural practice.

Why it matters:
Ideal for senior architects, associates, and directors thinking beyond projects and into practice strategy.

Architecture Symposium (November 2026 – Sydney)

The Sydney edition of the Architecture Symposium series continues the year’s discourse with focused, high-level conversations on contemporary architectural issues.

Why it matters:
A strong end-of-year opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and recalibrate heading into the next year.

Why These Events Matter for Your Career

Across architecture and interior design, careers are shaped not only by projects, but by perspective, networks, and timing.

The professionals who tend to progress fastest are those who:

• Stay connected to industry conversations

• Build relationships beyond their immediate studio

• Understand where the market is heading, not just where it’s been

At Uknighted Recruitment, we see firsthand how exposure to the right environments, people, and ideas can influence career direction, whether that’s stepping into leadership, changing typologies, or reassessing long-term goals.