Regenerative architecture takes center stage during ARCHITECT@WORK Rotterdam 2026

September 9 and 10 in Ahoy’

On September 9 and 10, 2026, Rotterdam Ahoy will host ARCHITECT@WORK. The fair, it is the 11th Rotterdam edition, is aimed at architects, interior architects, specifiers and other professionals involved in the built environment. For two days it is all about product innovations, knowledge exchange and meetings between designers, manufacturers and technical specialists.

The central theme of this edition is Regenerative Architecture. In doing so, ARCHITECT@WORK chooses a topic that goes beyond the familiar sustainability agenda. Whereas sustainable construction often focuses on reducing negative impacts, regenerative architecture asks a more ambitious question: how can the built environment actively contribute to recovery, strengthening and renewal?

Giving back to the environment

That approach requires a different way of looking at things. A building is then no longer an independent object, but part of a larger system. Ecology, water, energy, material flows, health and social dynamics all interact. The question is not only whether a design is less harmful, but also whether it gives something back to its environment. Consider buildings that encourage biodiversity, retain or purify water, generate energy, utilize local materials while contributing to the well-being of users.

For architects, this is no longer an abstract ideal. Regenerative principles are increasingly visible in concrete applications such as green roofs and facades, water recovery systems, bio-based materials, urban agriculture and circular building methods. Aspects such as daylight, air quality and the relationship between people and nature are also given an explicit place in the design process. In this way, the theme touches directly on the daily practice of offices looking for future-proof solutions for city, landscape and building.

Selection

As visitors to ARCHITECT@WORK are used to, the emphasis is not on mass, but on selection. The exhibition floor is arranged around carefully chosen product innovations, judged by a jury. The compact and recognizable set-up allows for targeted discovery of new materials, systems and applications. Moreover, the aisles are designed as lounge areas, with space for conversation, meeting and exchange. It is precisely this combination of innovation and approachable contact that makes the event interesting for prescribers who want to sharpen their knowledge and strengthen their network.

Content program

The content program also ties in with the central theme. Within the A@W Academy, lectures will include contributions from Werkstatt, Buro Harro, BNI, FAAM Architects and 1op1 Academy. An important part of the seminar program will again be co-organized by Architectenweb. Four of the six lectures come from this collaboration. Topics include biobased building, circular and nature-inclusive design, cooperative building forms and the simultaneous development of nature and urban areas. In addition to national speakers, there will also be a focus on international perspectives.

In addition to the lectures, there is room for side events, including art, exhibitions and a bookshop by NAi Booksellers. In doing so, the fair not only provides an overview of current product innovations, but also a broader context for reflection and inspiration.

So for architects who want to think beyond conventional sustainability, this edition promises to be a relevant meeting place.