Feature: 2026 AIA Conference reveals a blueprint for growth for PSA tape applications
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Conference on Architecture & Design has a storied history. The first event was held in 1867 for professionals interested in elevating architectural standards in the young nation. In the years since, the conference has served as a focal point for the profession’s efforts to address issues such as urban renewal, housing equity and sustainability.
The event’s scope has expanded in recent years to include a broader professional educational mission, a substantial expo, and more networking opportunities for architects and people in the industries that they interact with.
* Photo courtesy of the American Institute of Architects
Architectural trends and opportunities for PSA tapes
The 2026 AIA show took place June 10-13 at the San Diego Convention Center. The event’s 12,000 attendees could sit in on 350 educational sessions and visit more than 600 exhibitors.
Although Avery Dennison Performance Tapes was neither a presenter nor an exhibitor, it was represented by Luke Johnson, business development manager. With a day-to-day focus on helping converters grow their business in building and construction, Luke’s priority was to better understand the architectural industry’s trends and need for pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) tapes. Luke walked the expo floor on June 11 and 12 and met with many of the exhibiting manufacturers.
“AIA is really interesting,” says Luke. “It’s such a diverse blend of manufacturers, from precast concrete all the way through flooring, wall details, windows and ceiling products.”
We caught up with Luke shortly after his return and asked him to share his takeaways from his two days at the conference.
Luke’s key takeaways
1. Artificial intelligence is disrupting the architectural field
As is the case in many professions, AI is a hot topic in architecture. Luke noted companies showing off AI software were very popular in the expo.
Exactly what this means for architecture remains to be seen. But it’s clear the profession is changing rapidly. The technology is already being used by many for design and visualization of spaces, with the newest tools being able to render 3D models. AI is also used as a practical jobsite aid, helping plan workflows or ensure code compliance, for example.
“It’s hard to predict exactly how this plays out,” says Luke. “But I wonder if AI can help architects think even more broadly when it comes to design, including opting for materials they might not have considered in the past. Maybe PSA tapes?”
2. Architectural trends offer a lot of applications for tapes
Regardless of the effect AI has on architecture, there are plenty of opportunities for PSA tapes. These are being driven by many of the modern design trends highlighted at the event.
- Interior décor that wows - Luke noted a trend in sculpture/artwork, particularly ceiling-mounted. Imagine, for example, ribbons of metal hanging from a cathedral-style ceiling. Both the assembly of such pieces, and their mounting, could be achieved with high-performance PSAs.
- Shape and texture - Many manufacturers showcased exterior cladding materials that give buildings rounded shapes and interesting textures, as well as generous use of glass windows (the wall-of-glass look). “As building material manufacturers work to keep up with architects' visions, they should consider flexible and versatile PSA tapes as an alternative to mechanical fasteners for bonding,” says Luke.
- Noise mitigation - NVH is a common concern in many industries. It’s a growing concern in architecture as well, as spaces are being designed with an auditory appeal that matches their visual and tactile appeal. Luke noted PSA solutions for industries such as aerospace, automotive, marine and transportation could be adapted for these applications.
- Water management - “About 80% of architecture deals with figuring out how to handle and manage water,” says Luke. Architects looking for watertight membranes and materials that resist humidity and mildew - especially in spaces such as bathrooms and kitchens - can look to moisture-resistant PSAs for solutions.
- Minimalism trend in plumbing fixtures - Luke noticed a minimalism trend when exploring the plumbing fixture exhibits. These include “floating” faucets that lack traditional mounting plates and shower drains that are integrated with the shower floor. Thin, durable, moisture-resistant PSA tapes may be ideal for many of the bonding needs to fixtures like these.
Get an inside track to opportunities in architecture
And as the profession works to address the challenges of 21st century architecture, we expect to uncover more opportunities for high performance PSA tapes in construction materials. And working with Avery Dennison means having an inside track. Our portfolio features PSA technologies engineered for the needs of architects focused on both interior and exterior building spaces.
Learn more about the portfolio at https://tapes.averydennison.com/na/en/home/industries/building-construction.html.
Then, contact Luke to discuss how to develop your blueprint for growth by providing PSA-tape products to the building and construction industry: luke.johnson@averydennison.com.