Leading architects and State housing experts are meeting at The Model gallery in Sligo on 23-24 February for the RIAI/DHLGH Joint Housing Conference 2026.

This year's theme, 'Activation through Collaboration', focuses on maximising existing resources and utilising planning and procurement reform to increase the supply of sustainable, high-quality housing across Ireland.

The biennial event, which has been held since 1969, serves as a critical forum for stakeholders to discuss how smart design and modern methods of construction (MMCs) can expedite delivery. Key topics include the regeneration of brownfield sites, adaptive re-use policies, and the challenges of delivering affordable housing in town and city centres.

James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, emphasised the importance of partnership in meeting national targets: "Tackling the housing crisis demands new ways of working. While a focus on delivering more homes is essential, it is equally important that we build them right. This scale of delivery requires partnership. The State will lead with investment and direction, but success depends on collaboration with stakeholders and professional bodies such as the RIAI."

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RIAI President Fionnuala May FRIAI highlighted the architect's role in removing barriers: "Together we must cut red tape and reform our procurement and planning systems to create ones that are collaborative and enabling. Architects bring the design and problem-solving expertise needed to deliver housing that is efficient, sustainable, and built to last."

The conference features speakers from the Department of Public Expenditure, the National Treasury Management Agency, the Land Development Agency, and the National Disability Authority, alongside experts from the UK and Europe.

A major highlight of the event is the presentation of the RIAI Silver Medal for Housing. As the highest award for housing design in Ireland, the medal is awarded to projects several years after completion to confirm their long-term success. For the 2020-2021 period, the shortlist includes projects such as the 33 Social Housing Units at Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny, by McGarry Ní Éanaigh Architects.

The Joint Housing Conference 2026 continues through Tuesday, providing essential information exchange for those involved in the Irish construction and housing sectors.