The NCC’s Urbanism Lab is a free panel discussion series offering an innovative space where Canadians and leaders in urbanism, design, heritage and conservation, sustainability, and placemaking gather to inspire the future of the National Capital Region.
It has become the place to be for anyone who is passionate about creating a great National Capital Region to gather and exchange ideas. This year marks our 12th season of conferences and events.
2025–2026 programming
September 13, 2025
Open NCC offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the work of the NCC and its partners in architecture, urban planning, landscape design, environmental management, species-at-risk protection and much more
November 19, 2025
Join us for the launch of Urbanism Lab’s season 12 with a dynamic panel discussion exploring how cities can leverage high-speed rail to reinforce connections between metropolitan areas. Internationally recognized subject matter experts will showcase case studies from around the world and discuss the challenges and potential opportunities associated with major inter-urban rail projects.
Presented in partnership with the Embassy of France.
February 12, 2026
Speakers will explore how two of the largest NCC’s greenspaces, Gatineau Park and the National Capital Greenbelt, contribute to research, conservation and public education through their diverse, rich natural ecosystems. The conversation will highlight the importance of leading scientific institutions in advancing knowledge biodiversity, species at risk and resilient ecosystems. The event will also focus on how these oases are key contributors for residents and visitors to learn about sustainability and environmental stewardship in the National Capital Region.
March 25, 2026
Speakers will discuss the Greenbelt’s potential as a vibrant resource for local agriculture, ecological services and recreation. They will offer insights into how other regional greenbelts, parks and reserves address questions of land use, management and decision-making. The conversation will also provide a forward-looking perspective on the Greenbelt’s evolving identity and role within the National Capital Region.
The National Capital Greenbelt: Identity, value and land use
April 29, 2026
Join us to celebrate the bold visions and award-winning submissions from students across the country that reimagine the Ottawa River Waterway as a vibrant public gathering space. Opening remarks from innovative placemaking champions will set the tone for an inspiring evening.
June 2, 2026
The Government of Canada has launched Build Canada Homes to provide new, affordable housing programs and supercharge housing construction across Canada. How can public lands be leveraged to accelerate housing starts in collaboration with municipalities and provinces to realize this vision? This session will explore how federal policy tools are being used to increase housing supply and improve affordability, including the use of prefabricated and modular construction and working with private developers to build on public lands.
The Urbanism Lab panel discussion series is an in-person event only.
More information about this year’s lecture series will be available shortly.
Past series
If you’ve missed any of this
season’s events, or would like simply like to explore some of the topics we’ve
covered, past editions of the Lab remain available on our YouTube channel.
Past challenges
The Urban Design Challenge is an annual ideas competition for students from across Canada. In this challenge, participants are invited to come up with innovative planning and design ideas for selected areas in the National Capital Region.
Have a look at winning designs from past editions:
Stay informed
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