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Welcome to the 2026 Monterey Design Conference.
If you have been before, you already know: there is nothing like the Monterey Design Conference. Anywhere.
MDC’s intersection of illuminating, inspiring talks delivered in a relaxed atmosphere/community gathering creates a unique experience.
Stress disappears replaced by new ideas, new conversations. When we are here, it’s always about possibility.
This year’s headliners, from as far away as Bangladesh, bring with them an extraordinary array of backgrounds, achievement, knowledge, and commitment to the power of architecture. Together they are a snapshot of design-in-our-time and encapsulate the possibilities and variations that we can individually attain. We know the program is packed but don’t miss a speaker. You will leave with an extraordinary payoff.
To create a three-day event that taps into global names and is cognizant of the state of the profession takes an informed, committed, and connected committee; please join us in thanking them.
Which brings us to the next few days... Yes, see the lectures, pick up those learning units but, also: walk the grounds; enjoy the parties and band; participate in convivial dinners; run into speakers on the grounds of Asilomar. That’s MDC. What sets the conference apart is its communal experience. We see the speakers together, eat together, relax on the deck at the Social Hall together. From that, we leave inspired and regenerated. We’ll see you there.
Welcome to MDC.
Bill Leddy, FAIA
Doris Sung, AIA
2026/2027 Monterey Design Conference Co-Chairs
Program Updates
Speakers will be announced as they become available. The conference schedule will be released this summer.
What’s Included in Registration?
To view everything included in your registration, visit the Pricing Information page.
Early Bird Registration Deadline
July 31, 2026
Need to Book Housing?
Asilomar Conference Grounds is now accepting reservations for the Monterey Design Conference. Visit the Housing page for rates and to book your stay.
California Architectural Foundation (CAF)
A $10 donation to CAF is included in your registration fee. This supports students and emerging professionals through scholarships and related programming. Contributions may be tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Learn more at calarchfoundation.org.
Need to Make Changes?
If you need to modify your registration, contact AIA California at conferences@aiacalifornia.org or (916) 634-4207.
Questions? Contact us at conferences@aiacalifornia.org.
