It sets the tone for the opening chapter of our 2026 calendar—exploring how architecture is experienced, not just designed—by placing human connection, conversation, and spatial experience at the centre of each of the upcoming Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

The-Arc’s 2026 event theme emerged from a deeper reflection on what makes a space unforgettable. It isn’t just the design that lingers; it’s the people, the conversations, and the moments that give it meaning.

Why ICONICA is the Theme?

Each year, The Arc Agency structures its national events across multiple rounds, allowing different ideas, contexts, and experiences to shape the program across the calendar.

ICONICA began as a word, but quickly became a sentiment. It represented the buildings we admire, the ones that shape our cities and our memories. But more importantly, it represented the relationship architects and designers have with the built world.

 
Image: ICONICA theme artwork, visualising the connection between people, memory, and architecture. 

ICONICA was intentionally chosen as the theme because it establishes the emotional and experiential foundation for the year ahead. It sets the tone—not just visually, but philosophically—for how we gather in 2026.

What “ICONICA” Means Beyond Iconic Buildings?

In architecture and design, iconic doesn’t always mean a landmark on a postcard.

For many architects and designers, it’s something far more personal:

A staircase whose curve you still remember.

A façade that taught you something about light and shadow.

A space where you first understood what design could do.

These are human moments. Emotional responses. Lived experiences.

ICONICA exists to honour those moments—where the focus is on presence, reflection, and reconnection after the year’s beginning.

Image: "Reflect" illuminated sculpture, Arc by Crown, Sydney

Curating the ICONICA Event Experience

Rather than replicating conventional industry formats, we design experiences that are considered, contextual, and creatively energising. Our ICONICA events are curated so design isn’t just discussed—it’s experienced.

Attendees move through spaces.
They notice materiality and detail.
They feel atmosphere.
They connect in environments intentionally chosen to encourage conversation.

Image: Hands-on material exploration at The-Arc events.

ICONICA’s Place Within the 2026 Event Calendar

ICONICA represents the opening chapter of our 2026 program.

While later rounds across the year will explore different themes and formats, this first series is anchored in ICONICA—a reminder that architecture, at its core, is about people and experience before it is about products or process.

It mirrors the community that comes together early in the year:

• Architects shaping ideas for upcoming projects
• Designers re-entering creative flow
• Specifiers setting the tone for the year ahead
• Suppliers engaging in conversation before specification begins

Image: The-Arc Events 2025

The Arc Agency events are always worthwhile — a great chance to catch up with suppliers and bump into colleagues who lead to future work...The events are beneficial in many ways.

Lucy Brylski
Project Leader at 1:1 Architects

Final Thought: Experience The-Arc ICONICA

ICONICA isn’t something to simply read about.
It’s something to experience. 

It is an acknowledgment of the power of design, the significance of the people who create it, and the importance of gathering—early in the year—in spaces that honour both.

At The Arc Agency, our events bring the architecture and design community together, in spaces chosen to celebrate conversation, creativity, and connection.

RSVP to The-Arc ICONICA and be part of the opening chapter of The Arc Agency’s 2026 events program.

Melbourne, 18 March
Sydney, 23 April
Brisbane, 30 April
Perth, 14 May
Adelaide, 28 May

Image: The-Arc Events 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The-Arc ICONICA?
ICONICA is The Arc Agency’s event theme for the first series of our 2026 national events program.

Is ICONICA the theme for all 2026 events?
No. ICONICA applies specifically to to the initial series of events in our calendar. Later rounds across 2026 will explore different themes and experiences, allowing the program to evolve across the year.

Who are The-Arc ICONICA events designed for?
These events are designed for architects, interior designers, specifiers, and building product suppliers involved in shaping Australia’s built environment.

Where and when do The-Arc ICONICA events take place?
The-Arc ICONICA events take place across major Australian cities during the first months of the 2026 events calendar. Dates and venues are listed on the Events Calendar where you can also RSVP.

How do I become an exhibitor at The-Arc ICONICA?
To become an exhibitor, simply visit our 2026 Exhibitor Information page, where you can view available events, exhibition options, see pricing and submit an enquiry to secure your place.

Can I exhibit in multiple The-Arc events cities?
Yes. Suppliers may exhibit at one or multiple events, subject to availability and category limits.