Brooklyn NOW! 2026

The exhibition and programming presented at the BPL Library for Arts & Culture celebrates the design forces actively shaping our borough today. Opening on April 2nd 2026, Brooklyn NOW! highlights how architects, builders, and visionaries are reimagining Brooklyn’s streets, homes, and civic spaces. The exhibition will be accompanied by five in-person public programs where participants will be encouraged to engage directly with the ideas and people behind the work.

Exhibition Theme

Brooklyn NOW! 26 welcomes built projects, works in progress, and unbuilt ideas. Because Brooklyn is never finished.

Every submission will be published on the AIA Brooklyn website, creating an open digital archive of design across the borough. A curated selection will be exhibited at the Brooklyn Public Library’s L10 Library for Arts and Culture, alongside a month of public programs, talks, and events in April.

This is Brooklyn beyond the glossy spreads. Real work. Real people. Real impact. Brooklyn NOW! 26 captures the ingenuity, resilience, and care that define the borough.

Public Programming Events

All events run 6:30-8pm and are open to the public with advance registration on Eventbrite.

BPL Library for Arts & Culture
10 Lafayette Avenue, Second Floor
Brooklyn, NY 11217

4/02 Building Brooklyn NOW | (Opening) Architecture, Community and the Next Generation
4/09 Housing Brooklyn NOW | Design, Advocacy and Community Voices
4/13 Futures Brooklyn NOW | Public Storytelling and Creative Place Making
4/23 Public Brooklyn NOW | How Public Spaces Shape Neighborhood Life
4/30 Practicing Brooklyn NOW | (Closing) Working Locally in a Global City

Who Can Submit

If you live or work in Brooklyn, you can submit. Architects, designers, builders, artists, educators, students, and neighbors. All voices welcome. Projects must be located in Brooklyn to qualify.

How To Submit

Submissions open now and close March 22nd.

Each entry must include:

One PDF with a single presentation board combining all images and text for your submission. Download the template linked below to get started on your submission now.
One hero image representing the project, to be featured online and in the gallery.

The hero image from every project will be showcased here on the Brooklyn AIA website. A selection of submissions will be printed and hung in the exhibition. Standard submission fee is $50. A reduced entry fee is available for non-professionals and students.

How Can I Get Involved

We are seeking volunteers to assist with exhibition installation, public programming and many more activities. Reach out here if you’d like to join the team!

If you would like your company to be listed as a sponsor, you can find out more here.