Get your space helmets ready – Canstruction Rochester is launching into the cosmos this fall with Cosmic Conquest as its theme. On October 11, 2025, all teams will reveal their imaginative designs during Build Day… but we won’t spill the beans on ours just yet. From October 12–25, the public can view these galactic structures at The Strong Museum in downtown Rochester and vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Canstruction may look like fun and games, but at heart it’s a powerful force for good. Started in 1992, the nonprofit design-build competition challenges architects, engineers, and designers to collaborate in creating awe-inspiring sculptures made entirely of full cans of food. After the exhibit ends, all the canned goods are donated to local food banks.
In Rochester, this creative drive has become a key food-security event, supporting Foodlink and other community partners. Our team is thrilled to be returning to the arena, and this year feels extra special as we’re proud to now have three teams competing. That extended reach reflects our growing design family and collaborative spirit across offices.
Speaking of growth, earlier this year, our Albany team made waves in Canstruction with a movie-theater–inspired design, complete with 3D glasses. It was a striking example of how creativity and civic purpose go hand in hand.
You might also recognize MG2 Design, who recently joined Colliers Engineering & Design. MG2 competed in the Canstruction event in Irving, CA just last month with a stunning lighthouse design. Their arrival expands our collective design energy and broadens the reach of our creative family.
So, what can you do to get involved?
- Mark October 11 on your calendar, and plan to visit The Strong Museum afterward during the exhibit run (Oct 12–25).
- Bring your voting finger! Museum guests get to choose the People’s Choice winner.
- Spread the word (and the cans). Every vote and every can moved helps amplify our mission.
We can’t reveal our structure just yet, but we will say this: it’s going to be out of this world. Stay tuned – and may the best can-sculpted spaceship win!