Showcasing Amazing Talent
The College of Architecture and Design (CoAD) at Lawrence Technological University will hold its fifth annual end-of-year exhibition of undergraduate and graduate students’ year-end projects, and a digital presentation will feature alumni work, at ShowLTU CoAD 2026, May 7 – 9.
The displays not only reflect exquisite design and creative solutions but also celebrate perseverance, innovation, and exploration. Exhibitors will be on hand to explain their concepts and the technology used to accomplish their work. The show also demonstrates CoAD’s dedication to inspiring, educating, and motivating architecture and design leaders through “theory and practice,” LTU’s foundational pedagogy.
International Architect Keynotes Industry Night
ShowLTU CoAD 2026 opens with Industry Night on Thursday, May 7. Student awards will be distributed at 4:30 p.m., followed at 5:00 p.m. by guest lecturer, internationally recognized architect Kai-Uwe Bergmann, FAIA, a partner at BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) of Denmark. Bergmann has contributed his architectural expertise to projects in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. He heads BIG’s business development, oversees BIG’s urban-scale projects, and supports BIG’s landscape projects. He is registered as an architect in 13 US states and Canada. Bergmann most recently contributed to the resiliency plan to protect 10 miles of Manhattan’s coastline. First envisioned through the Rebuild by Design competition to develop proactive responses to Superstorm Sandy, it is now under construction to be completed this year.
Reclaiming Materialism
Titled “Reclaiming Materialism,” Bergmann said, “We seek to reclaim the term materialism—not as a symbol of empty consumerism, but as a meaningful practice: shaping our future through form and matter. For most of our history, life has adapted to the material world around us. That changed the moment we discovered tools, technology, and architecture. With them, we gained the power to shape the material world in service of the life we wanted to lead. Human history can be read as a story told through materials—each breakthrough marking a new chapter in our evolution. We named entire eras after the substances we learned to master: the Stone Age, the Bronze Age, the Iron Age, and the Silicon Age. Our ability to manipulate matter has been one of the most powerful forces driving civilization forward. In this spirit, we invite you on an odyssey through the material world, as seen through the works of BIG—from the permanence of solid rock to the invisible flow of electrons.”
“The energy and ambition of the students truly make this event special,” said Lilian Crum, CoAD’s interim dean. “It’s not only a celebration of their academic journey, but a meaningful bridge between education and industry.
“We’re honored that Mr. Bergmann will share his experience and wisdom with our students and our community.”
Future Architects and Designers Meet Industry Leaders
ShowLTU CoAD 2026 embraces the university’s core philosophy of theory and practice by presenting new, original work and concepts that will shape the industry’s future.
Crum said that networking experience is a key aspect of ShowLTU CoAD.
“This is a valuable opportunity to connect with the next generation of creative professionals and see how their ideas are already impacting the future of architecture and design. I am truly proud of our students, future leaders in architecture and design,” said Crum.
Thanks to D-Fab
Crum also acknowledged D-Fab as a Contributing Sponsor.
All Are Welcome to Attend
A lecturer of Bergmann’s caliber is a highlight of ShowLTU CoAD 2026. Industry leaders and the public are invited to hear him in person or via livestream.
For more information or to register for the event, please click here. Registration is also requested to attend the exhibition and reception, which opens at 6 p.m.
To view the live stream of the awards ceremony and keynote speech, please visit https://youtube.com/live/A-stTAzVXas.
