The Birmingham Architectural Association’s annual Celebrating Women in Architecture Exhibition, in celebration of International Women’s Day, returns on Tuesday the 17th March 2026 at the Birmingham Symphony Hall, where we will be showcasing some of the exceptional female talent in the Midlands region.
We will be exhibiting a range of exciting projects which have been spearheaded by female Architects from local practices. We will also be celebrating the outstanding emerging talent from our local Architecture Schools; Birmingham School of Architecture, University of Wolverhampton, Coventry University, Leicester School of Architecture and University of Nottingham.
The UN Women’s theme this year is #RightsJusticeAction, and we will be hearing from the perspective of our inspirational speaker about her journey in the profession and the various ways she advocates for rights, justice and action in the industry.
Our Keynote Speaker this year is Ruth Reed, first female President of the RIBA, founder of Reed Architects and Director of Professional Studies at the Birmingham School of Architecture.
Ruth Reed began her career as an architect in public and private practices and was principal in her own practice, Reed Architects for 13 years. During this time, she worked as a fee-paid planning inspector. From 2007 to 2025 she was a professional witness in planning appeals as director of Green Planning Studio Limited.
For September 2009 to August 2011 she was first woman President of the RIBA. Prior to that she was President of RSAW and then VP Membership of the RIBA. After the presidency she was Chair of the RIBA Planning Group.
She was Professor of Architectural Practice and Director of Professional Studies at the Birmingham School of Architecture and continues to examine both as Professional Examiner and External Examiner on Part III courses.
She is appointed as the Independent Scheme of Management Inspector for the Heritage Foundation of Letchworth Garden City.
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The Birmingham Architectural Association is kindly supported by our sponsors by Altro Limited, Crown Paints, CupaPizarras, DLine, E H Smith, Solus, MillerKnoll, Optima, RockPanel, and X Sign.
Important Visitor Information
- Unfortunately, there are no storage facilities for large bags or luggage. Please do not bring these to the event.
- The venue is accessible to wheelchair users. Please notify us baa@brumarchitecture.com if you require further assitance.
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