2026 Architecture Month

EVENTS OPEN TO MEMBERS AND THE PUBLIC

For 19 years AIA Honolulu has marked Architecture Month by an exciting lineup of public events, featuring a fun mix of engaging events that highlight the power of good design in making our communities better places to live, work and play.

World Architecture Day is the first Monday in October. It parallels the UN World Habitat Day. This day was chosen by the International Union of Architects “to reflect on the state of our towns and cities and the basic right of all to adequate shelter. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.”

ONLINE REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

OCT 2: AIA Honolulu Firm Crawl (Open House)

RSVP HERE! Friday Oct 2, Pau Hana 5PM – 8PM, Various AIA Honolulu Firms, Free

Have you ever wondered what goes on inside an architect’s office? Celebrate the First Friday of Architecture Month and visit up to 8 design firms in the central business district of downtown and adjacent areas during this open house.

Many locations include pupu and drinks! Learn more about architectural design, interior design, planning, landscape design and meet the people shaping Hawai‘i’s built environment during this annual tradition.

OCT 10: Pastel Workshop with Hitoshi Hida

Spend the morning with Hitoshi Hida, AIA, a retired architect and accomplished artist, for a hands-on sketching workshop that explores the art of observing and capturing the world around us. Mr. Hida discovered his passion for drawing and painting as a child and has spent a lifetime refining his artistic eye and technique. Beginner or an experienced artist, this engaging workshop offers an opportunity to develop your drawing abilities.

OCT 15: Don't Be Afraid of
the Architecture Profession

RSVP HERE! Thursday, Oct 15, 5:30PM – 7PM, Cosentino, Free

This is a fun and informal event geared towards architecture students and recent graduates interested in next steps for their career. Come network with some of our experienced emerging member mentors. Enjoy some light pupus and drinks as you network and build community! Learn about life after architecture school, applying to firms, internships, portfolio review, interviews, the ARE exams, licensing, and more!

OCT 16: Oahu Film Night (1.5 LU)

RSVP HERE! Friday, Oct 16, 6:00PM – 9:00PM, HoMA Doris Duke Theatre, Free

AIA Honolulu invites members and the public to join us for a screening of “Bawa's Garden,” to be shown in Honolulu on Oahu.

Film: "Bawa’s Garden" is a road movie in search of the work of renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. (1h 29m). The film follows a protagonist as she traverses the island in pursuit of the ‘lost’ garden of Lunuganga. While the treasure may be the goal, the journey sparks encounters with vivid characters and rarely seen buildings that reveal the story of Bawa’s life and legacy. View trailer. The film will be followed by a moderated discussion.

OCT 17: Sketching Workshop with Steve Yuen

Spend the morning with Steve Yuen, AIA, for a hands-on sketching workshop that explores the art of observing and capturing the world around us. He is an architect, urban designer and artist by training.Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this engaging workshop offers an opportunity to develop your drawing abilities while experiencing the joy of sketching with one of Hawaiʻi's respected architectural and artistic talents.

Coffee and pastries are included. Please bring your own sketching supplies.

OCT 24: Architectural Walking Tour: Expanded Downtown Honolulu

Register Here! Saturday, Oct 24, 8AM – 12PM, Start: Topa Tower, Cost $20

Explore the rich architectural history and evolving urban landscape of Downtown Honolulu during AIA Honolulu's annual Architectural Walking Tour. This year's expanded tour offers participants a deeper look at the buildings, public spaces, and design influences that have shaped the city over time. Knowledgeable guides will share stories behind notable landmarks, architectural styles, and the people who helped define Honolulu's built environment.
Staggered tours will start every 15 minutes.

OCT 24: Kona Young Architects Workshop

Register on the DMAC Website! Saturday Oct 24, 10AM – 3PM, Donkey Mill Art Center

In this workshop students will work side by side with local architects and investigate design related concepts. This one-day event offers students ages 13 to 16 the chance to dive into the world of architectural design under the mentorship of local professional architects. Participants will tackle a design challenge that pushes them to think critically about key architectural elements, including light, sun protection, airflow, and environmental connections or protections. Cost: $65/$80