The 2026 International Builders’ Show brought energy, innovation, and inspiration to the building industry. This year, EVstudio proudly attended and participated in several key events. From education sessions to national awards, our team experienced the full impact of this industry-leading conference.
The International Builders’ Show, often called IBS, is the largest annual light construction show in the world. The National Association of Home Builders hosts the event each year. Thousands of builders, architects, engineers, and manufacturers attend. They gather to explore products, share ideas, and shape the future of housing.
IBS matters greatly to an architecture and engineering firm like EVstudio. First, it connects us directly with builders and developers. These relationships strengthen collaboration across project teams. Second, the show highlights emerging materials and systems. That insight helps us design smarter, more efficient buildings. Finally, IBS reinforces our commitment to innovation in residential design and construction.
Speaking at IBS: About Offsite Construction
This year, EVstudio’s presence extended beyond attendance. Dean Dalvit, EVstudio’s Founder, Principal, Architect & Engineer, presented in the NAHB Building Systems Councils Lounge. His session focused on Opening the Playbook on Design for Offsite Construction. He offered an in-depth review of essential design strategies and requirements for modular projects. He explained how teams could achieve successful designs for permitting, manufacturing, and field construction.
He shared critical best practices and illustrated them with case studies. Each example walked through key phases of architecture and engineering. He highlighted lessons learned at every stage of design development.
In addition, he explored opportunities for innovation and systematization. He showed how streamlined processes could better serve all project stakeholders. He emphasized alignment between designers, manufacturers, and builders.
The session provided value for attendees at every experience level in offsite construction. Dean discussed how participants could advance and innovate modular techniques within traditional design, permitting, and construction frameworks. He also shared free digital resources that attendees could immediately apply to their own projects.
Offsite construction continues to reshape the industry. Therefore, Dean’s presentation resonated strongly with builders seeking efficiency. He explained how architects and engineers must engage early in the process. Early coordination ensures structural integrity and code compliance. It also aligns factory fabrication with site logistics. His talk reinforced EVstudio’s leadership in this evolving space.
EVstudio Wins at IBS: Gold and Silver!
Meanwhile, the excitement continued during the prestigious NAHB BALA Awards ceremony. The Building Systems Councils and the National Sales and Marketing Council present these honors annually. The awards celebrate excellence in residential design and development nationwide.
We are thrilled to share that EVstudio earned national recognition. We won Gold for Best Infill Community. This award highlights thoughtful urban design and contextual architecture. Infill development requires balancing density, livability, and neighborhood character. Our team delivered solutions that enhance both community fabric and project value.
In addition, EVstudio received Silver for Best Offsite Construction Multifamily Project Design. This recognition reflects our deep experience with modular and panelized systems. Offsite multifamily projects demand technical precision and early collaboration. Our integrated design process supports builders from concept through completion. As a result, we create efficient buildings without sacrificing design quality.
Awards validate hard work, but they also inspire future growth. Therefore, these honors energize our team to keep pushing boundaries. They also demonstrate the trust our builder partners place in us. That trust drives our continued innovation.
Another highlight of IBS involved Alex Knuth. Alex served as a judge for the sixth consecutive year for the Most Innovative Construction Tool award. This long-standing role reflects his technical expertise and industry leadership. Each year, the competition showcases breakthrough products and technologies.
This year, the top honor went to DEWALT POWERSHIFT. Judges recognized the system for advancing electrified jobsite equipment. The platform reduces emissions and noise while maintaining high performance. Tools like these signal a shift toward cleaner, more efficient construction practices. Alex’s involvement keeps EVstudio connected to cutting-edge jobsite innovation.
Of course, IBS also provided valuable networking opportunities. Ross Maxwell and Jim Houlette attended alongside Dean and Alex. Together, the team met with long-time partners and new collaborators. They explored exhibit halls filled with emerging technologies. They also discussed market trends affecting housing nationwide.
Face-to-face conversations remain invaluable. Although digital communication dominates daily work, in-person dialogue builds deeper relationships. IBS fosters those meaningful connections. Consequently, our team returned energized and informed.
In summary, the 2026 International Builders’ Show proved both productive and inspiring. EVstudio contributed thought leadership through Dean’s presentation. We celebrated national recognition at the NAHB BALA Awards. Alex continued his judging leadership in construction innovation. Meanwhile, our broader team strengthened industry relationships.
IBS reminds us why collaboration drives great projects. It also reinforces the importance of staying ahead of industry change. At EVstudio, we design with purpose and partnership. Events like IBS help us deliver on that promise every day.
