Save the date! 2026 OALA Conference

“JOY: The Power and Purpose of Place”

"Live, Work and Play”. This is a classic phrase that is universally used, including by landscape architects, when designing spaces in the public realm. But ... what would happen to the design of those spaces if we were to shake things up a bit and reversed the prioritization of those concepts, on occasion, to "Play, Live and Work"?

Landscape architects are uniquely positioned, through a combination of technical expertise, artistic vision, and creatively thoughtful design skills to shape environments that can be functional, while at the same time inspire joyful connections between strangers that can result in healthier communities.

It is through PLAY that our profession can and does create moments of collective JOY through the intentional design of public urban places.

This year’s OALA Conference, titled “JOY: The Power and Purpose of Place", will explore bold ideas and innovative solutions that demonstrate how OALA members are leading the way in designing more vibrant and joyful environments that have the potential to heal social division and strengthen our societal resilience.

Join us in Kitchener, October 1-3, 2026, to share stories, spark your imagination, and celebrate the joyful potential of landscape architecture.