Chicago Architecture Biennial 2025: SHIFT – Architecture in Times of Radical Change

Since its foundation in 2015, the Chicago Architecture Biennial (CAB) has established itself as the most important platform for contemporary architecture in North America. Every two years, it transforms the city on Lake Michigan into an international forum where architecture is discussed as a social practice. Through its free exhibitions, installations and events, the Biennial aims to appeal not only to specialists, but also to bring architecture into the everyday lives of urban communities. Over the past ten years, more than 400 projects from almost 50 countries have contributed to the Biennial, addressing pressing issues in urban planning, social justice, and cultural change. 

Florencia Rodriguez, director of the UIC School of Architecture, has been appointed curator of the Chicago Architecture Biennial's sixth edition, 'Shift'. © Noah Sheldon. 

The upcoming edition of SHIFT also marks the format's tenth anniversary. Taking place from 19 September 2025 to 28 February 2026, it will be held at the Chicago Cultural Centre and various other locations across the city. Argentinian critic Florencia Rodríguez will serve as artistic director for the first time, supported by a curatorial team consisting of Igo Kommers Wender, Chana Haouzi, Gabriela de Paula Weinert, Isabella Moretti and Santiago Bogani. The focus will be on how architecture can respond to times of radical change. Topics will include climate change, migration, new forms of living and materials that bridge the gap between tradition and the future. 

The 2025/26 Chicago Architecture Biennial celebrates its tenth anniversary as the largest architecture festival in North America. © 2025 Chicago Architecture Biennial

With over 100 architects, designers, and creatives from around the world, the Biennale promises to be a global showcase of innovation and dialogue. Participating studios include SO-IL (New York), Breathe Architecture (Melbourne), MASS Design Group (Kigali/Boston), APPARATA (London), Kwong Von Glinow (Chicago) and Lütjens Padmanabhan (Zurich). They will all bring different perspectives to the exhibitions, installations, and site-specific projects. At the announcement, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker emphasised that "Chicago is known the world over as a hub of architecture and design and the 2025 Architecture Biennial will further enrich that legacy."

The Boston-based architecture firm French 2D has designed Bay State Cohousing: a 45,000-square-metre residential complex for thirty households which features an innovative typology. © Naho Kubota 

The sixth edition of this event invites visitors to experience the diversity, innovation and experimental spirit of contemporary architecture. Contributions from emerging talents and renowned architects demonstrate how creative design can address social, ecological, and cultural issues while reinterpreting the built environment. The Biennale provides a unique insight into the future of architecture and inspires us to reconsider urban spaces.