The theme
Ottawa Architecture Week is an annual week-long festival that welcomes everyone to explore architecture, urbanism, art and design in Ottawa.
This year, OAW examines the tension between Ottawa as a city and Ottawa as a national capital. As a home, Ottawa is a livable city, an economic power and a diverse community. As a national capital, Ottawa is a political centre, a cultural monument and a tourist destination for Canadians and international visitors. These seemingly opposing forces give Ottawa its own character and unique challenges.
This complex relationship manifests physically through Ottawa’s urban spaces, architecture, and everyday life. When examined closely, we see that the federal and municipal tensions, collaborations, and compromises are sprinkled throughout. During OAW 2015, we will explore these spaces and investigate the ways in which this city makes its decisions.
Our events aim to engage all audiences, stimulate discussion and discover the spatial wonders this great city has to offer.
Let’s start the conversation. Join us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and follow our Blog for updates and new content.
About OAW
Ottawa Architecture Week is a public forum that explores the ways in which architecture and urban design affect our daily lives. Throughout the week, we celebrate the role of architecture and the related trades in a way that is fun and engaging. We strive to bridge the gap between the architectural community and the public, in order to facilitate a constructive dialogue on the relationship between the built environment and Ottawa’s people.
Each annual edition is curated around a trending theme relevant to the architectural profession and the Ottawa–Gatineau community as a whole. The program features a variety of public events that include talks, exhibitions, installations, workshops, film screenings, tours, and panel discussions.
In 2015, for OAW’s 27th edition, we will explore what it means for Ottawa to be a livable city and a capital.
Recent past editions:
About ORSA
Ottawa Regional Society of Architects is a non-profit volunteer organization that represents the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) within the community. ORSA works to raise the profile of the architectural industry and has given voice to the local architectural profession for over 100 years.
ORSA Membership includes registered members of the OAA, as well as people involved in related industries. ORSA also welcomes members of the general public who have an interest in architecture and want to further their involvement in the architectural community.
ORSA is committed to presenting an informed opinion on issues affecting architecture in the National Capital Region, as well as to increase public awareness of the social importance of architectural design.
For more information, visit the ORSA website.