Homes Sizes and Lots Continue to Decrease with Growing Preference for Low Maintenance Property Improvements
Residential market beginning to show signs of improved business conditions
Washington, D.C. – June 21, 2010 – The prolonged economic downturn in the housing market, coupled with growing concerns about rising utility costs has resulted in greater interest in smaller homes and lot sizes. There have also been some broader lifestyle changes with U.S. households eschewing upscale amenities, opting instead to invest in more low maintenance projects, particularly for property improvements. Accessibility within the home continues to be a concern, especially for an aging population, and there is an increasing demand for more flexible design and informal space within homes. Business conditions for residential architects are beginning to indicate improving conditions with the first quarterly increase in billings since mid-2007. These findings are from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey that focused specifically on overall home layout and use in the first quarter of 2010.
You can see this press release online here:
http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB083460
“We continue to move away from the ‘McMansion’ chapter of residential design, with more demand for practicality throughout the home,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “And with that there has been a drop off in the popularity of upscale property enhancements such as formal landscaping, decorative water features, tennis courts and gazebos.”
“There has been a steady decline in both the square footage and volume in home design in recent years,” added Baker. “The preference instead seems to be for more flexible, open and informal layouts that allow for both ease movement and fostering a space more conducive to family living.”
About the AIA Home Design Trends Survey
The AIA Home Design Trend Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of 500 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector. Residential architects are design leaders in shaping how homes function, look, and integrate into communities and this survey helps to identify emerging trends in the housing marketplace. Business conditions are also monitored on a quarterly basis. Future surveys will focus on specialty rooms and systems (September 2010) and community design trends (December 2010).
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
2010 Imagination Cube Competition - Call for Entries
Competition
The competition welcomes any imaginative, design-related exploration appropriate to Pinta Acoustic material and product line: functional, technical, spatial or artistic featuring a "chapel or meditative space". The design must fit within the cubic dimension of 48' x 48' x 48' and must use the product suggested as the primary component(s). Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating the experiential and phenomenological qualities of "sound".
Sponsored by
Pinta Acoustic | Phoenix Chapter Construction Specifications Institute | AIA Arizona
Prize
In addition to the Trophy Award and Certificate, the winner will receive a 3-night trip for two to Minneapolis, Minnesota with hotel and airfare included along with a travel stipend. There will also be an opportunity to visit the US headquarters for PintaAcoustics located in Minneapolis.
Jury
Jack DeBartolo 3, AIA, DeBartolo Architects
Mark Kranz, AIA, SmithGroup
Gary Utriainen of Pinta Acoustic
Deadlines
August 6, 2010 Registration due
August 30, 2010 Submittals due at 4pm
Sept 1, 2010 Jury meets
Winner announced at the Celebrate Architecture Awards Presentation
September 25, 2010
For eligibility, fees and other information, click here.
CLICK HERE TO ENTER
The American Institute of Architects select the recipients for the 2010 Young Architects Forum/Committee on Design Ideas Competition
Program looks for innovative solutions to shelter needs following a disaster
Miami – June 11, 2010 – The American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) Young Architects Forum (YAF) and Committee on Design (COD) have selected the recipients of the first annual YAF/COD Ideas Competition.
You can see this press release online here: http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB083376
Submitters were asked to explore the issue of temporary relief housing that could have a permanent function, through a concept design problem. While successful site adaptability is a key goal and criterion for this competition, the specific site to demonstrate the solution consists of approximately 200 acres at Houston’s Astrodome and the surrounding parking lots. Entrants could include modifications to the structure of the Astrodome in their proposal, may allow the Astrodome to remain untouched and focus solely on the surface parking areas, or may have some combination of the two. Individual entries could focus their solutions on the provision of either temporary or permanent housing. Entrants were encouraged to address issues of uncertainty associated with either types of housing and with temporary solutions that become permanent.
The jury for the YAF/COD Ideas Competition includes: Barton Phelps, FAIA, Barton Phelps & Associates; Lawrence Scarpa, FAIA, Pugh + Scarpa Architects Inc. and Mehrdad Yazdani, Assoc. AIA, Yazdani Studio of Cannon Design.
“Disaster planning is a serious design problem; to dedicate a design competition to this is wonderful,” said the jury. “Overall the depth of exploration of the problem (shelter) seen in the submissions was wonderful.”
Two projects tied for first place; FREE by Gene Kaufman Architect. P.C. and Woven Shelter by Jiyoun. The Community Unit by Eric Polite received third place. Below you can see short descriptions of each project. These projects were recognized June 10 at the AIA National Convention in Miami. If you would like access to images or renderings, please contact Matt Tinder at mtinder@aia.org.
FREE (1st Place)
Gene Kaufman Architect. P.C.
Lightweight, prefabricated modules that condense to 8’x16’ for storage and transportation, but expand effortlessly 250% on site provide sufficient shelter to those displaced by a disaster. These modules can be easily transported and assembled by untrained labor and are adaptable to varying terrain and climates and are viable for long term use. The three telescoping modules (cooking/bathing, sleeping and living) are fitted with pivoting solar panels and wind turbines to provide power exceeding demand load to energize batter storage. Roof storm water retention provides clean water, solar-powered hot water, and grey water; combined with the dry composting toilet, this eliminates dependence on any utilities.
Woven Shelter (1st Place)
Jiyoun Kim
Fabric-made tents are and have been the most effective solution to shelter needs after a disaster strikes. The issue of advancing the design and durability of these tents from temporary structures to more permanent was the central idea behind the Woven Shelter. Design advances the conventional fabric shelter by exploring the potential of geometric shapes which both enclose as well as structure. A sequence of donut-like membranes allows the user to shelter themselves by filling the bag with cheap, local resources such as sand. These membranes are then woven into strands and become a self supporting structure without the need for additional framing. This system allows for user flexibility as long term users can pack mud or aggregate material onto the fabric and short term users can string large sheets of fabric between the long term shelters.
The Community Unit (3rd Place)
Eric Polite
In the wake of disasters, whether man-made or natural, survivors are often left without inhabitable shelter. By providing living units for those displaced, the Community Unit solution solves this issue. Portable units composed of recycled plastic polymers and metal alloys can be delivered to provide survivors with shelter at designated locations, such as the Astrodome in Houston after Hurricane Katrina. Each unit is comprised of separate components that would be prefabricated off-site and delivered by truck. The units are designed to stack vertically and be arranged with others to form small communities of units.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
AIA Arizona Call for Entries!
Pecha Kucha Style Competition
Greetings!
Earn a spot to present at this year's AIA Arizona State Conference titled "The Road Ahead!"
Submission details...
How: Submit a 1 to 2 minute video or 20 digital images that challenge[s] the normal practice of architecture and illustrates innovation in the work [or] the process of the work.
Why: AIA is seeking to promote innovation in your approach to design / architecture / the creative process
Who: 10 to 12 innovative thinkers will be shortlisted and will be required to give a 10 minute presentation to the Jury. Five to eight will be selected by the Jury to present their video/power point during the New Talent / Innovation time slot. This competition is open to AIA members, Associate Members and Affiliate Members
When: Statement of intent to participate is due Friday, June 4, 2010 by 1:00pm MST via email to Tina@aia-arizona.org. Entry deadline is Tuesday, June 15, 2010 5:00PM MST. The State Conference presentations will be from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm on August 19, 2010 at the Sheraton, Wild Horse Pass.
So, if you think you are an "out of the box thinker" prove it!
Click here for further submission details, jury information and more.
Architecture Billings Index Reaches Highest Mark in Over Two Years
Business Conditions Slowly Improving
Washington, D.C. – May 19, 2010 – For the third straight month the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) has gone up. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the April ABI rating was 48.5, up from a reading of 46.1 the previous month. Although this score reflects a continued decline in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings), it is the highest score since January 2008 when revenue at architecture firms headed into recession. The new projects inquiry index was 59.6.
You can see this press release online here: http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB083066
“It appears that the design and construction industry may be nearing an actual recovery phase,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “The economic landscape is improving, although not across the board, but doing so at a gradual pace. It is quite possible that we will finally see positive business conditions in the foreseeable future.”
Key April ABI highlights:
- Regional averages: Northeast (51.0), Midwest (49.2), South (46.5), West (44.7)
- Sector index breakdown: commercial / industrial (48.5), mixed practice (48.4), institutional (46.8), multi-family residential (45.8)
- Project inquiries index: 59.6
About the AIA Architecture Billings Index
The Architecture Billings Index is derived from a monthly “Work-on-the-Boards” survey and produced by the AIA Economics & Market Research Group. Based on a comparison of data compiled since the survey’s inception in 1995 with figures from the Department of Commerce on Construction Put in Place, the findings amount to a leading economic indicator that provides an approximately nine to twelve month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction activity. The diffusion indexes contained in the full report are derived from a monthly survey sent to a panel of AIA member-owned firms. Participants are asked whether their billings increased, decreased, or stayed the same in the month that just ended. According to the proportion of respondents choosing each option, a score is generated, which represents an index value for each month. The regional and sector data is formulated using a three-month moving average.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
Architects Applaud Senate Confirmation of Ayers as Architect of Capitol
Washington, D.C. – May 13, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) applauded the confirmation late last night by the U.S. Senate of Stephen Ayers, AIA, as Architect of the Capitol. The confirmation was by unanimous consent, a compelling endorsement of Mr. Ayers’ performance since being appointed on an interim basis three years ago.
You can see this press release online here: http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB083005
Mr. Ayers was nominated to be Architect of the Capitol by President Barack Obama in late February, after leading the office on an interim basis following the retirement of Alan Hantman, FAIA, who held the position previously.
"For the Senate to confirm Stephen Ayers so quickly and on such a bipartisan basis is itself an endorsement of the profession as well as Mr. Ayers’ steady hand as he led the Architect of the Capitol’s office for the last three years,” said American Institute of Architects president George H. Miller, FAIA.
History and Role of the Architect of the Capitol
The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the buildings committed to his care by Congress, which in 1876 vested the position with permanent authority for the care and maintenance of the United States Capitol. The Architect’s duties include the mechanical and structural maintenance of the building, the upkeep and improvement of the Capitol grounds – which include the Capitol, the congressional office buildings, the Library of Congress buildings, the Supreme Court building, the U.S. Botanical Garden, the Capitol Power Plant, and numerous other facilities – and the arrangement of inaugural and other ceremonies held in the building or on the grounds.
During Mr. Ayers’ tenure, he successfully managed the Office of the Architect, guiding the Office to achieve many notable milestones and achievements. These include:
- Meeting the completion cost and schedule of the Capitol Visitor Center, which
welcomed 2.3 million guests in the first year of operation;
- Successfully leading various components of the 56th Presidential Inaugural,
including the construction of the platform;
- Completing a Collective Bargaining Agreement with AFSCME Local 626, which
represents 500 employees;
- Taking a leadership role in implementing sustainable practices on Capitol Hill, including opening an ethanol (E-85) fueling station and doubling tonnage of recycled waste.
Mr. Ayers will be the keynote speaker the evening of June 9 at the AIA’s 2010 Citizen Architect Exchange, which is being held at the Miami Convention Center just prior to the opening of the AIA’s annual convention June 10-12.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
Architects Are Catalysts for Making Green Jobs a Reality, AIA President George H. Miller Tells “Good Jobs, Green Jobs” Conference
Congress Should Act on Host of Green Jobs Legislation
Washington, D.C. – May 4, 2010 – With buildings and their construction accounting for nearly half of all greenhouse gas emission and energy consumed in this country, architects play an indispensable role in making major contributions to America’s economic and environmental security, American Institute of Architects (AIA) president George H. Miller, FAIA, today told attendees here at the “Good Jobs, Green Jobs” 2010 National Conference.
“Bills have been introduced this Congressional session that command broad bipartisan support and could help create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the design and construction industries—and go a long way toward curbing energy use,” Miller said. “Our industry has the will to make that contribution. What we need are the tools.”
Miller ticked off several pieces of legislation that are proceeding through various stages of the legislative process:
- S. 3079, introduced by Senators Jeff Merkley and Mark Pryor would create a new federal program known as Building Star. Under this program, building owners could receive rebates and low-cost financing options for energy-efficient renovation in existing buildings. The AIA estimates this bill would help create 25,000 jobs this year alone for every $1 billion of federal investment; and 150,000 jobs with a $6 billion investment.
- House bill 2336, the GREEN Act, introduced by Representatives Ed Perlmutter and Judy Biggert, provides incentives to lenders and financial institutions to offer lower interest loans and other benefits to consumers who build, buy, or remodel their homes to make them more energy-efficient. The AIA estimates that 140,000 would be created annually in the building industry if this bill passed.
- House bill 2187, the 21st-Century Green High Performing Public School Facilities Act, passed by the House in May 2009, sponsored by Representatives George Miller (no relation) and Ben Chandler, would provide $6.4 billion in grants for states and local government to modernize school buildings, especially for the neediest students. The AIA estimates 100,000 jobs would be preserved or created by the passage of this bill.
- Representative Steve Israel has legislation that would allow Department of Energy (DOE) loan guarantees to support state Property Assessed Clean Energy or “PACE” bond initiatives. Representative Mike Thompson has introduced legislation that amends the Internal Revenue Cole to allow a tax exemption of the interest on bonds (like PACE bonds) issued to finance renewable energy resource facilities, conservation and efficiency facilities and projects, and zero emission vehicles and related facilities or projects.
On another front, more than 80 organizations led by the AIA and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association have renewed their call to support increasing the Energy Efficient Commercial Building Tax Deduction to help stimulate immediate job creation.
“You get the sense from hearing this, that the Congress and the nation with it are straining against the leash, eager to take action that will create new, green jobs; increase our nation’s security by lessening our dependence on imported energy, much of it from unstable areas of the world; and provide stewardship of the only home we have—Planet Earth,” Miller concluded.
The Conference includes more than 100 workshopson topics ranging from green manufacturing to transportation to business, investments and new markets. In addition, May 5th is the Green Innovation Expo, where labor, industry, environment and academia will showcase efforts to grow the green economy and develop clean energy jobs. www.greenjobsconference.org
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
2010 AIA Arizona Design Awards - Call for Entry Fees
The AIA Arizona Design Awards program recognizes excellence in design, planning, and construction of projects located anywhere in the world that are designed by AIA Arizona architects registered and licensed in the state of Arizona. Entries from multi-office firms are limited to work designed in the local office. More...
Deadlines:
May 7, 2010 entry forms and fees due by 12:00 noon
June 18, 2010 submittals due at AIA Arizona office by 12:00 noon
June 23, 2010 late submittals due at AIA Arizona office by 4:00 pm along with $50 late fee for each entry
More...
Jury:
David Brininstool, AIA - Brininstool, Kerwin & Lynch LLC
David Woodhouse, FAIA - David Woodhouse Architects
Avi Lothan - DeStefano + Partners Architects
Dirk Denison, FAIA - Dirk Denison Architects
Jackie Koo, AIA - Koo and Associates Ltd
'One Good Chair 2010: Minimum/Maximum' Design Challenge Approaching Entry Deadline
Finalists to be Named at Summer 2010 Las Vegas Market
(LAS VEGAS) - April 22, 2010 - Less than two weeks remains to register early for the "One Good Chair 2010 Minimum/Maximum" design competition, which challenges participants to design a chair that's not only sustainable but also comfortable. To date, more than 150 people from all over the globe have registered.
The One Good Chair competition, now in its third year, is sponsored by the Sustainable Furnishings Council and the Las Vegas Design Center at World Market Center Las Vegas and is being organized by architect, designer, green advocate and author Lance Hosey, whose upcoming book "Shape of Green Design" explores how form and image can enhance conservation and comfort at every scale of design. Other supporters of the 2010 competition include Dwell magazine as a media partner, Savannah College of Art and Design and manufacturers Handy Living and Weyerhaeuser serving as production partners.
"This year's theme, Minimum/Maximum, challenges designers to use as little material as possible to create a comfortable, durable, beautiful chair," said Hosey. "Not any easy task, so I'm very excited to see how innovative the contestants can get. The competition gets better every year and this year's entries are sure to be inspiring."
The entry fee for the One Good Chair competition is $50 U.S. dollars until May 1, after which time the fee increases to $70. Registration can be completed online at http://www.onegoodchair.com/register-check no later than June 15, 2010.
AIA Commends Financial Services Committee for “Earth Day” Vote on GREEN Act
AIA Estimates Bill Creates 140,000 Building Sector Jobs Annually
Washington, D.C. – April 22, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects today commended the House Financial Services Committee for moving the Green Resources for Energy Efficient Neighborhoods (GREEN) Act out of Committee. H.R. 2336 is now headed for a floor vote.
See this press release online: http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB082822
“As the United States struggles with a sagging housing market and rising energy prices, now is the time to encourage investments that promote energy independence, grow the economy, and save American homeowners money,’ said AIA President George H. Miller, FAIA. “By including incentives for energy efficiency into lending and housing programs, the GREEN Act is the sort of innovative and common-sense approach we need to spark our economy while saving energy.
“We congratulate the House Financial Services Committee for moving this bill forward on the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day,” said Miller. “And we commend Rep. Ed Perlmutter (D-CO), an honorary member of AIA-Colorado, and Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL), the co-chair of the Congressional High Performance Building Caucus, who co-sponsored this legislation.”
AIA estimates that the GREEN Act could create as many as 140,000 jobs in the building industry per year. http://www.aia.org/advocacy/federal/AIAB082795
The GREEN Act (H.R. 2336), provides incentives to lenders and financial institutions to offer lower interest loans and other benefits to consumers who build, buy, or remodel their homes to make them more energy-efficient.
Over the past three years, the AIA has worked closely with Reps. Perlmutter and Biggert in drafting this bill. The GREEN Act was passed by the House of Representatives each of the last two years but has yet to be considered by the Senate. Thursday’s Earth Day vote takes the measure one step closer to making enactment a reality.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
The American Institute of Architects select the 2010 COTE Top Ten Green Projects
Projects showcase excellence in sustainable design principles and reduced energy consumption
Washington, D.C. – April 21, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment (COTE) have selected the top ten examples of sustainable architecture and green design solutions that protect and enhance the environment. The projects will be honored at the AIA 2010 National Convention and Design Exposition in Miami.
The COTE Top Ten Green Projects program, now in its 14th year, is the profession's best known recognition program for sustainable design excellence. The program celebrates projects that are the result of a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology. They make a positive contribution to their communities, improve comfort for building occupants and reduce environmental impacts through strategies such as reuse of existing structures, connection to transit systems, low-impact and regenerative site development, energy and water conservation, use of sustainable or renewable construction materials, and design that improves indoor air quality.
The 2010 COTE Top Ten Green Projects jury includes: Peter Busby, Assoc. AIA, Int'l. Assoc. AIA, Busby Perkins & Will; Robert Harris, FAIA, Lake Flato Architects; Denis Hayes, The Bullitt Foundation; Lisa Heschong, Heschong Mahone Group, Inc.; Alison G. Kwok, AIA, University of Oregon; Elizabeth I. Ogbu, Assoc. AIA, Public Architecture.
The descriptions below give a brief summary of the projects. To obtain detailed information regarding specific aspects of the sustainable features or to obtain images of these projects, please go here or contact Matt Tinder at mtinder@aia.org.
355 11th Street – Matarozzi/Pelsinger Building, San Francisco
Aidlin Darling Design
355 Eleventh is a LEED-NC Gold adaptive reuse of a Historic (and previously derelict) turn-of the-century industrial building. Because the project site is on the National Register of Historic Places, the San Francisco Planning Department mandated that the project’s new siding be an “in-kind” replacement of the original (unsalvageable) corrugated metal siding and that the overall window area be consistent between old and new. The design team successfully championed a strategy of introducing subtle perforations into the new zinc cladding to allow light and air into the occupied spaces beyond, maintaining the stoic character of the original building without the visual introduction of new fenestration.
City of Watsonville Water Resources Center, Watsonville, Calif.
WRNS Studio
The Water Resources Center is a functional, educational and visual extension of the water recycling plant it supports. The new 16,000 square foot building consolidates three different city and county water departments into a workspace that allows for thoughtful and continuous collaboration on issues of water management, conservation and quality in the Pajaro Valley. The facility includes administrative offices, a water quality lab, educational space and a design that puts the story of water in California on display. The building, its systems and its landscape will serve to educate the public through exhibition and guided tours.
KAUST, Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
HOK
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a new international, graduate-level research university established to drive innovation in science and technology and to support world-class research in areas such as energy and the environment. KAUST's new campus is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's first LEED certified project and the world's largest LEED Platinum project. By integrating sustainable measures into the site planning, the community, the building design and the campus operations, the university is demonstrating new ways to build in the region and promoting responsible stewardship of the environment.
Kroon Hall - Yale University, New Haven, Conn.
Hopkins Architects and Centerbrook Architects & Planners
Replacing a brownfield site, Kroon Hall was charged with being a net zero energy building. The architects and the University wanted Kroon Hall to set a new standard for schools around the country. It had to function not simply as a sustainable overlay that offset unsustainable practices in people’s everyday lives but as something that inspired and encouraged people to alter their lives and become more sustainable citizens. This was accomplished through a mix of active and passive design measures and visible, invisible and interactive building features.
Manassas Park Elementary School + Pre-K, Manassas Park, Va.
VMDO Architects, P.C.
MPES is fundamentally designed around the premise that people, especially children, cannot be expected to preserve or protect something they do not understand. As such, the school is conceived throughout as a teaching tool that shepherds children along a path of environmental stewardship. Inside and out, sustainable design is integrated with the elementary curriculum. Design decisions were made with the expressed goal of showcasing as many teachable moments as possible. Interior extended learning spaces offer dramatic and surprisingly intimate views of the neighboring mixed oak forest, while elementary classrooms face shady moss and fern-covered learning courtyards featuring “fallen” trees and other particularities of an eastern deciduous forest floor.
Manitoba Hydro Place, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg Architects and Smith Carter Architects and Engineers
Manitoba Hydro Place was designed utilizing a formal integrated design process to achieve daunting goals of energy efficiency, healthy workplace environment, urban revitalization, sustainability and architectural excellence. A model for bioclimatic design in an extreme climate that fluctuates 70°C annually, the ‘Capital A’ form is site specific to harness the maximum amount of passive solar and wind energies and to provide 100% fresh air, 24/7. At 88 kwh/m2/annually, from a demand side, it is the most energy efficient large office tower in North America, with a 66% improvement over the standard. While targeting LEED Platinum certification, Manitoba Hydro Place has, more importantly, achieved its ultimate goal of a superior indoor environment for the health and well-being of its employees.
Michael J. Homer Science & Student Life Center, Atherton, Calif.
Leddy Maytum Stacy Architects
The 44,109 square foot building incorporates an unusual hybrid program of eight sophisticated science classrooms, a 700-seat auditorium, a 350-seat dining hall with full commercial kitchen, and administrative offices in spaces that inspire scientific inquiry, foster a strong learning community and promote environmental stewardship. The Homer Center supports Sacred Heart Schools’ educational mission, inspiring respect for creation and teaching eco-literacy by offering a variety of integrated educational environments that connect students and faculty to the natural world around them on a daily basis. The design encourages scientific inquiry, linking the school’s science curriculum to building functions throughout the seasons – how it breathes, resists gravity, conserves precious resources and generates energy.
Omega Center for Sustainable Living, Rhinebeck, N.Y.
BNIM Architects
The Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL) is a very purposeful building and site, designed to clean water, return the clean water to the local systems, and educate users about the process. Eco-Machine™ technologies were selected to clean the water utilizing natural systems including the earth, plants and sunlight. The entire building and water process utilize site harvested renewable energy achieving a net zero energy system. This required the facility to be free of waste (volume, material, energy), organized and carefully tuned to harvest solar energy for passive heating and lighting, utilizing the entire mass for thermal comfort. The resultant design’s simplicity and elegance fit its noble purpose.
Special No. 9 House, New Orleans, La.
KieranTimberlake
The Special No. 9 House was designed for the Make It Right Foundation to provide storm-resistant, affordable, and sustainable housing options for the residents of New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward displaced by Hurricane Katrina. To support Make It Right’s goal of building 150 homes in the Lower Ninth Ward, this single-family home is poised for mass production, anticipating a shift from on-site to off-site fabrication as more homes are scheduled for construction. Key goals were to create safe, healthy and dignified housing to residents in a flood-prone area, and to empower residents to return to improved living conditions that take advantage of New Orleans’ climate and express its deep cultural heritage.
Twelve|West, Portland, Ore.
Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects LLP
Rising 23 stories above the intersection of Twelfth and Washington streets in Southwest Portland, Twelve|West is a mixed-use building designed with sustainability and ongoing learning as integral goals. Twelve|West was designed to achieve the highest levels of urban sustainability, and is expected to earn a Platinum rating under LEED NC overall and LEED CI for the office floors. An emphasis was put on selecting low-impact materials, including salvage, reclaimed and FSC-certified wood. Much of the concrete building structure is exposed on the interior minimizing the use of finish material and providing ample thermal mass. Energy use reduction was a primary driver of the design. Simulations predict energy savings of 45% over a baseline code building.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
Continued Upward Trend in Architecture Billings Index
Highest reading from architects since August 2008
Washington, D.C. – April 21, 2010 – On the heels of a more than two point gain in February, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) was up again in March. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the March ABI rating was 46.1, up from a reading of 44.8 the previous month. Though this score reflects a continued decline in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings), it is the highest score since August 2008. The new projects inquiry index was 58.5.
“This is certainly an encouraging sign that we could be moving closer to a recovery phase, even though we continue to hear about mixed conditions across the country,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “Firms are still reporting an unusual amount of variation in the level of demand for design services, from improving to poor to virtually non-existent. This increasing volatility is often a sign that overall business conditions may begin to change in the coming months.”
Key March ABI highlights:
- Regional averages: Midwest (50.5), Northeast (47.0), West (46.0), South (44.4)
- Sector index breakdown: multi-family residential (47.3), institutional (46.8), mixed practice (45.0), commercial / industrial (44.7)
- Project inquiries index: 58.5
About the AIA Architecture Billings Index
The Architecture Billings Index is derived from a monthly “Work-on-the-Boards” survey and produced by the AIA Economics & Market Research Group. Based on a comparison of data compiled since the survey’s inception in 1995 with figures from the Department of Commerce on Construction Put in Place, the findings amount to a leading economic indicator that provides an approximately nine to twelve month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction activity. The diffusion indexes contained in the full report are derived from a monthly survey sent to a panel of AIA member-owned firms. Participants are asked whether their billings increased, decreased, or stayed the same in the month that just ended. According to the proportion of respondents choosing each option, a score is generated, which represents an index value for each month. The regional and sector data is formulated using a three-month moving average.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Christine McEntee departs AIA to lead American Geophysical Union
Washington, D.C., April 19, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) announced today that Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer Christine McEntee will leave the Institute July 23, 2010 to become Executive Director of the American Geophysical Union (AGU), an international non-profit scientific association dedicated to furthering the sciences of geophysics through individual efforts and in cooperation with other scientific organizations.
McEntee leads a staff of seasoned professionals who capably manage the AIA’s daily operations and who, along with McEntee, will assist the elected leadership of the AIA during the transition to a new executive. A search committee working under the guidance of the AIA Board Executive Committee will be formed, with a national search for candidates to be conducted by an executive search firm. McEntee will work closely with the AIA leadership and staff to ensure a smooth transition.
“Over the past four years, Chris McEntee significantly enhanced recognition by policy makers, the media, and others that design matters, especially in the areas of sustainability and livable communities,” said AIA President George H. Miller, FAIA. “Chris is embracing an opportunity of great personal and professional interest and we wish her every future success.”
Design matters, a founding precept of the AIA, is encompassed in the activities of 280 AIA chapters in the U.S. and abroad and by the commitment to lifelong professional development of 83,000 AIA members so that the latest insights and best practices are applied to the challenges facing clients and communities. The AIA will continue to establish and uphold standards that promote architecture of quality as well as public policy positions that advocate for healthy, safe, and sustainable buildings and communities.
“My decision to accept a new position comes at a time when the AIA is strong and poised to take advantage of new opportunities that will add member value,” said McEntee. “I’m gratified that I’ve been able to make a positive contribution to the organization in my time as the staff executive, but, I know that the enduring success of the AIA mission is found in the unyielding passion and commitment of its members to help create a better built environment.”
During her tenure, the AIA marked its 150th anniversary through a series of initiatives to spark conversations about the impact of architecture on our lives. Two, in particular, focused on the contributions of architects and architecture: Blueprint for America, a nationwide community service program in 156 communities across the country where architects donated their time and expertise collaborating with citizens to address local quality of life issues, and the Shape of America, an Internet destination that encourages visitors to share their experiences with a panel of architects who highlight the importance of well known works of architecture. The anniversary also included the widely popular America’s Favorite Architecture public poll through which 150 works of architecture selected by the public ignited a robust conversation that continues today.
Additionally, McEntee increased the effectiveness of government advocacy involvement in legislation and media relations placement efforts, introduced innovations for the AIA web site and the Annual Convention, and expanded sustainability initiatives, including an integrated communications campaign explaining the role architects play in helping address climate change and the 2030 Commitment Program through which architecture firms agree to incorporate sustainability principles into their architectural practices and with their clients.
In her new position at the AGU, which begins in August, McEntee will lead a professional society that is a global leader of scientific knowledge within the Earth and space science communities and expand AGU’s global reach and scientific excellence for the benefit of humanity.
About The American Institute of Architects
For 153 years, members of The American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. AIA members have access to the right people, knowledge, and tools to create better design, and through such resources and access, they help clients and communities make their visions real. Visit www.aia.org.
NEMA and AIA Renew Call on Congress to Extend Commercial Building Tax Deduction
Policy to help spur immediate job creation and reduce energy consumption likely to be a focus of Way and Means Committee Hearing Tomorrow
Rosslyn, Va., April 13, 2010 — The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) today renewed their call on Congress to support increasing the Energy Efficient Commercial Building Tax Deduction from $1.80 per square foot to $3 per square foot in order to help stimulate immediate job creation. More than 80 organizations in the manufacturing, construction, and environmental arenas have now co-signed a letter to Congressional members asking for an increase in this particular tax deduction. This represents an increase of more than 40 percent in the number of signatures since December 2009.
A copy of the letter is available at www.nema.org/gov/efficientbuildings and www.efficientbuildings.org/legislative_update.html.
A hearing on Energy Tax Incentives to Drive the Green Job Economy is being held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 14, in the Longworth House Office Building. The hearing will examine the effectiveness of current energy tax policy and identify additional steps—such as increasing the commercial building tax deduction—that the committee can take to ensure continued job growth in this area.
In 2005, NEMA and AIA advocated a tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot for the design and installation of qualified energy efficient building systems in new building construction or in the renovation of existing buildings. Although the deduction, which was enacted that year, has been successfully used to build and retrofit energy-efficient buildings, the current economic crisis has reduced the amount of building design, construction, and renovations nationwide. In addition, because some energy efficient systems are more expensive to design, build, and install than their less efficient counterparts, the initial increased capital costs often dissuade owners from installing these systems.
According to NEMA President and CEO Evan R. Gaddis, the increase would provide a valuable job-stimulating incentive to retrofit and renovate existing commercial buildings.
“This tax incentive has a proven record of success in supporting thousands of construction, electrical, design, contractor, and manufacturing jobs prior to the recession. An increase is needed to address tight capital and other financing issues facing building owners. This is the type of measure that fits with the outlines of President Obama’s jobs stimulus announcement on December 8, 2009,” Gaddis said.
“The entire construction industry accounts for billions of dollars nationwide, yet continues to suffer at near historic proportions,” said AIA Executive Vice President/CEO Christine McEntee. “Congress could have an immediate impact that will stimulate building design, construction and renovation across the country by increasing the deduction to $3 per square foot. This will help spur much needed job creation in every state and region, while enhancing our energy independence and improving our nation’s infrastructure for the 21st century.”
NEMA is the association of electrical and medical imaging equipment manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., its approximately 450 member companies manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end use of electricity. These products are used in utility, industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential applications. The association’s Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) Division represents manufacturers of cutting-edge medical diagnostic imaging equipment including MRI, CT, x-ray, and ultrasound products. Worldwide sales of NEMA-scope products exceed $120 billion. In addition to its headquarters in Rosslyn, Virginia, NEMA also has offices in Beijing and Mexico City.
About The American Institute of Architects
For more than 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with one another and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change.
The American Institute of Architects celebrates National Architecture Week April 11-17
“Design Matters” theme focuses on the importance and impact of quality design to society
Washington, D.C. – April 5, 2010 – National Architecture Week was created to encourage a public dialogue about architecture and to increase attention to the role architects play as a force for positive change in our communities.
Engaging both the architecture profession and the public, National Architecture Week will take place virtually on the American Institute of Architects Architecture Week 2010 Facebook fan page. Each day during architecture week a different discussion topic will be posted to the fan page. Discussion topics will include sustainability/environment, design, economy, education, housing, transportation and health care—all designed to illustrate how design shapes everyone’s lives. These discussions will be supplemented with the AIANational’s first ever chat on Twitter.
Sunday, April 11
National Architecture Week will kick off with the release of a video presentation by the 2010 AIA President, George Miller, FAIA, which will be posted to the Architecture Week 2010 Facebook fan page.
Monday, April 12
The AIA Facebook page will host a discussion on the reach of design and delve into a design-related question that is generated by a panel of topical experts.
Tuesday, April 13
New videos will be posted to the Shape of America site. The new video posting will generate a discussion on the AIA Facebook page. Video’s will include a profile of past AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE) Top Ten Green building award recipients.
Wednesday, April 14
Given the large number of followers AIA National has on Twitter there will be a 60-minute Twitter chat focusing on the theme, Design Matters, featuring about four to six thought-provoking questions. A web page will be posted and linked to alerting participants how to follow and participate in the chat. http://www.aia.org/practicing/AIAB082554
Thursday, April 15
Another new video will be posted to the Shape of America site while a link to the video will be posted on the Facebook page. Architecture Week participants will be encouraged to view the new video and then share their thoughts and commentary about the video on the Facebook page.
Friday, April 16
Another thought-provoking narrative/question from a panel of topical experts will be posted to the Facebook page to engage participants. Pertinent links will be shared as background for the participants.
Saturday, April 17
The weeklong initiative ends with a virtual town meeting to discuss the future of communities and how design affects local communities. The model for the town meeting will be based on the town meeting taking place in April in Columbus, Ind., where George Miller, FAIA, will appear. The town meeting will serve to underscore the week’s discussions and encourage users to continue the dialogue throughout the year.
The AIA Facebook fan page will be used to provide a broad range of knowledge resources from the National component. If you already have a Facebook account, go to the homepage and type “Architecture Week 2010” in the “search” box. That will take you to the site hosted by the AIA. Once there, view the resources, add resources of your own, and participate in the conversation. If you are not already on Facebook, it’s easy to join and it is free. Google “Facebook.” After you create an account with your own password, you will be able to participate.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
AIA: Modest Rebound in Architecture Billings Index
Washington, D.C. – March 24, 2010 – Following a drop of nearly three points, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) nudged up almost two points in February. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the February ABI rating was 44.8, up from a reading of 42.5 in January. This score indicates a continued decline in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry score was 52.0.
“We continue to hear that funding dedicated for construction projects in the stimulus package has not yet been awarded, resulting in a bottleneck of potential projects that could help jumpstart the economy,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “That, coupled with a persistently rigid credit market for private sector projects, is a key reason why the design and construction industry continue to suffer at near historic levels in terms of job losses.”
Key February ABI highlights:
Regional averages: Midwest (49.4), Northeast (44.1), West (43.6), South (40.7)
Sector index breakdown: multi-family residential (47.3), institutional (44.2), mixed practice (43.3), commercial / industrial (43.2)
Project inquiries index: 52.0
About the AIA Architecture Billings Index
The Architecture Billings Index is derived from a monthly “Work-on-the-Boards” survey and produced by the AIA Economics & Market Research Group. Based on a comparison of data compiled since the survey’s inception in 1995 with figures from the Department of Commerce on Construction Put in Place, the findings amount to a leading economic indicator that provides an approximately nine to twelve month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction activity. The diffusion indexes contained in the full report are derived from a monthly survey sent to a panel of AIA member-owned firms. Participants are asked whether their billings increased, decreased, or stayed the same in the month that just ended. According to the proportion of respondents choosing each option, a score is generated, which represents an index value for each month. The regional and sector data is formulated using a three-month moving average.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
AIA Arizona News
Greetings!
Get your calendars ready because April is Phoenix Metro Architecture Month, and we've packed it full of tours, lectures and special events that focus on art, architecture and why design matters. Watch for details on all Architecture Month events coming soon, but mark your calendar and save the dates for the following:
April 1st - AIA/IIDA Couture Reception
April 6th - Musical Instruments Museum Tour
April 8th - Slide Slam at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
April 10th - Annual Desert Classic Volleyball Tournament and Rebuilding Together Project
April 13th - Children's Museum Tour
April 25th - HOME TOUR
April 27th - YAF Lunch with the Fellows
And much more!
Click here to view more AIA News
Rowland+Broughton & Luca d'Italia Team up for Colorado Architecture Month
March 8, 2010 – DENVER, Colorado –
Aspen and Denver, Colorado based Rowland+Broughton Architecture and Urban Design is celebrating Colorado Architecture Month by participating in the American Institute of Architecture’s Delicious Designs program. Delicious Designs is a program that commemorates Colorado architecture through dessert for the month of April. This program is designed to draw attention to the importance of architecture and its effect on our everyday lives. AIA wants to communicate how architecture influences our daily lives through working, playing, living and eating. For the month of April local restaurants and architecture firms team up to design and offer a dessert that is representative of Colorado architecture.
Rowland+Broughton is partnering with local restaurant, Luca d’Italia on the dessert creation. The Colorado State Capital building was mutually selected by R+B’s Shane Martin, AIA and Luca’s chef, Mike Pechak for the proximity of the structure to the restaurant, just a mile, as well as the fact that it is the most venerated building in the state. “We chewed on a number of iconic Denver and Colorado structures and felt the Capitol Building gave us a lot of potential ingredients to work with…the dome, the classical site plan, even the marble of the building itself. Making it come to life as a dessert was more challenging than I’d expected. But the collaboration process was a lot of fun, and in the end we think patrons will enjoy sinking their teeth into it!” States Shane Martin, AIA, Associate with Rowland+Broughton Architecture and Urban Design.
Colorado Architecture Month officially begins April 1st. Luca d’Italia will be serving the dessert exclusively for the month of April. For more information on Luca d’Italia and to make a reservation visit www.lucadenver.com. For more information on all the restaurants participating in the Delicious Desserts program visit www.coloradoarchitecturemonth.com.
Rowland+Broughton Architecture and Urban Design was established in 2003. Today R+B is a bustling 11 person design ‘think tank’ with offices in Denver and Aspen. Having both an urban and small town office has given the firm the opportunity to work on a wide range of project types and sizes. The firm’s diverse project portfolio includes commercial, hospitality, high-end residential, interior design, institutional master planning and new town planning.
For more information visit www.rowlandbroughton.com
New Home Design Trend Survey from the AIA: Decrease in demand for High-end features
Continued Weakness in Housing Market Prompting Shift Away from High-end Kitchen and Bath Features
Homeowner preferences lean to energy efficiency and simplicity in design
Washington, D.C – March 9, 2010 – Without the rapid appreciation in home values seen between 1995 and 2005, design of kitchens and bathrooms has recently been somewhat more modest. Functionality is now preferred to more and larger kitchens and bathrooms within U.S. homes. Households are placing a premium on products and features that promote energy efficiency, and adaptability in the use of space for seniors and those with accessibility concerns.
Residential architects continue to report declining business conditions, indicating that the housing market is not yet entering a full recovery phase. These findings are from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the fourth quarter of 2009, which focused specifically on kitchen and bathrooms.
“The general consensus is that homes will continue to be smaller on average than they were in the past decade,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. “But since kitchens remain the nerve center of the home, doing more with less space is a key consideration. Integrating kitchens with family space remains a design priority, as does including areas devoted to recycling, pantries, computer workstations, and spaces devoted to recharging laptops, cell phones and PDAs.”
About the AIA Home Design Trends Survey
The AIA Home Design Trend Survey is conducted quarterly with a panel of 500 architecture firms that concentrate their practice in the residential sector. Residential architects are design leaders in shaping how homes function, look, and integrate into communities and this survey helps to identify emerging trends in the housing marketplace. Business conditions are also monitored on a quarterly basis. Future surveys will focus on overall home layout and use (June 2010) specialty rooms and systems (September 2010) and community design trends (December 2010).
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org
2010 AIA Arizona Photography Contest
Submissions wanted for the Annual 2010 AIA Arizona Photography Competition!
Submit digital photos, sized 5"x7" at 150 DPI, by Monday, April 5th, 2010 and enter to win fantastic prizes worth $500 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd place and $200 for 3rd place.
Only AIA members can enter. Submit up to five entries for the cost of $25.00.
Finalists will be announced May 1, 2010. The top prizes will be announced at the AIA Arizona Design Awards Gala in September. Click here to view images of last year's winners.
Click here for further competition submission requirements.
Click here for a 2010 Photography Competition Entry Form.
AIA Arizona News
"The Ice Breaker" for our February AIA Arizona Board meeting followed the theme of "Politics in Architecture in Arizona." So, the Ice Breaker for the meeting was, "What bills or legislation do we think would help save Arizona from its current financial morass?" Although there was no shortage of ideas, we realized 40 minutes later that our collective concerns would not solve the issue at this meeting, but let's keep the dialog running.
The month of March is Eco Month. Your Committee on the Environment (COTE) is proud to roll out a program of events (one per week) that will highlight sustainability practices in the home, at work, at school and where we shop. There will be several activities, Arizona-wide, as highlighted on the AIA Arizona website. Please thank our sponsors of this event for their contributions!
The Membership Communications Committee is looking to extend the reach of our newsletter "Just the Facts," and has offered to provide the weekly service to friends and associates outside our current circle. Contact Alexandra Evjen, at the AIA Arizona office, with names you would like added to the list.
Have a great month!
Kevin Morrow, AIA
AIA Arizona President
AIA Arizona Eco Month: Where We Live - On Saturday, March 6, 2010 at 1:00PM, Green Street Development will take you on a tour of a NAHB Gold-certified green home located in the Willo Historic District and lecture on what it takes to live sustainably. RSVP to Diana Smith. This event is FREE. Earn 1 SD LU. Click for details.
Southern Arizona Associate Lunch - March 9, 2010 from Noon to 1pm at Maynard's Market (Toole & 5th Avenue, Tucson). RSVP by March 8, 2010 to Donna McQuery.
Grand Canyon Chapter Meeting - On Friday, March 12, 2010, AIA Grand Canyon Chapter presents a tour of the Ecosa Institute in Prescott, Arizona. Meet at the Firehouse Kitchen (218 W. Goodwin St. in the Old Firehouse station) at 12:00p.m. for lunch and then walk to the Ecosa facility afterward. Click here for details.
Images of America: Scottsdale Architecture Book Tour - The AIA Phoenix Metro Scottsdale and Northeast Valley Section invite you to attend a lecture and book signing by author of Images of America: Scottsdale Architecture, Douglas B. Sydnor, AIA, on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 from 7:00p.m.-9:00p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts - Stage 2 Theater. This is a FREE event.
AIA Arizona Associates Blog - AIA Arizona Associates have started a blog where not only can you read about relevant news, but you can contribute as well. It's a forum and blog in one! See for yourself, click here.
Southern Arizona Chapter Meeting - On the evening of Wednesday, March 10, 2010, Jan Cervelli, FASLA, FCELA, Dean of The University of Arizona College of Architecture and Landscape Architecture will be speaking on the topic of "A Brave New Rebuilt World." Click here for details.
Canstruction AIA Phoenix Metro People's Choice Winner - DWL Architects + Planners / Mortenson Construction won the Phoenix Canstruction AIA Phoenix Metro People's Choice Award. Click here for more information and photos.
Architect Finder - Still not listed on our Architect Finder? Click here to fill out the paper work.
Phoenix Metro Volleyball Tournament - The AIA Arizona Phoenix Metro Affiliates are again sponsoring the Annual Desert Classic Volleyball Tournament on Saturday, April 11, 2010 at Scottsdale Ranch Park. Be a part of this annual opportunity and become a sponsor! Click here to find out more information.
Phoenix Metro Affiliate Lunch - The next meeting will be held on March 4, 2010 from 12pm to 1pm in the AIA Arizona office. RSVP to Diana Smith.
Affiliate Finder - Now the public and architects can search for you online! Not listed? Click here and fill out the form.
Advertise in Just the Facts, Please...Advertise your business to your target audience of over 2,000 people! Click here for details.
UofA Lecture - Click here to view the spring lecture series. Donovan Rypkema, Principal of PlaceEconomics, will be presenting on March 10, 2010 at 5pm in the Harvill building, room 150.
Taliesin West Lecture Series - Click here to view the spring lecture series. Diane Cheatham of Urban Edge Developers, will be speaking on March 11, 2010.
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce FORUM - On Friday, March 5, 2010 Phoenix Chamber of Commerce is hosting a forum on sustainability. Click here for details.
City of Tucson Rainwater Harvesting Ordinance Workshop - The City of Tucson's Commercial Rainwater Harvesting Ordinance takes effect on June 1, 2010. Attend a free seminar to learn the ordinance requirements, development standards, reporting guidelines, and more to ensure compliance with the Ordinance in your projects. Click here for details.
Mayor Gordon's State of the City Address and Luncheon - Tuesday, March 9, 2010 from 11:00am-1:00pm at the Phoenix Convention Center. Click here to register.
Art Alliance Austin's Annual Temporary Outdoor Gallery Space Competition - This ideas competition generates innovative proposals for a temporary outdoor structure that functions simultaneously as an exhibition space and architectural exhibition. Registration due by March 26, 2010. Click for details.
Evergreen Awards - Eco-Structure's annual Evergreen Awards competition recognizes excellence in building design and environmental performance. Registration and entry due July 1, 2010. Click for details.
Southwest Build-it-Green - Grab your free ticket for the Southwest Build-it-Green Expo being held on March 18-20th. Click here for details.
Job Board - Click to view the latest opportunities.
2010 AIA Institute Honor Awards Recognize Excellence in Architecture, Interiors, and Urban Design
Washington, D.C. – January 19, 2010 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has selected the 2010 recipients of the Institute Honor Awards, the profession’s highest recognition of works that exemplify excellence in architecture, interior architecture and urban design. Selected from over 700 total submissions, 28 recipients located throughout the world will be honored in June at the AIA 2010 National Convention and Design Exposition in Miami.
More information and images regarding these projects can be found here: http://www.aia.org/practicing/AIAB082029. You can see this press release online here: http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB082118
2010 Institute Honor Awards for Architecture
The jury for the 2010 Institute Honor Awards for Architecture includes: Richard L. Maimon, AIA, (chair), KieranTimberlake; Jeanne Gang, FAIA, Studio/Gang Architects; Sam Grawe, Editor-in-Chief, Dwell Magazine; Jeffrey Lee, FAIA, Pearce Brinkley Cease & Lee P.A.; Justine N. Lewis, AIAS Representative; Miguel A. Rivera Agosto, AIA, Miró Rivera Architects; Mark Simon, FAIA, Centerbrook Architects & Planners; H. Ruth Todd, AIA, Page & Turnbull Architects and William R. Turner, Jr. Assoc. AIA, Shears Adkins Architects.
Alice Tully Hall; New York City
Diller Scofidio + Renfro, FX FOWLE Architects
The redesign of Alice Tully Hall transforms the venue from a good multi-purpose hall into a premiere chamber music venue with street identity and upgraded functionality for all performance needs. The sloped underside of Juilliard's expansion serves as a canopy framing the hall, its expanded lobby, and box office. The opaque base of Pietro Belluschi's building is stripped away to reveal the hall's outer shell and a shear one-way cable net glass façade puts the hall on display.
Austin E. Knowlton School of Architecture; Columbus, Ohio
Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects
Asserting the belief that a school of architecture has a commitment to teach by example to both students within and the community at large, the architectural form and urban positioning of the new school is strategically active and interactive. The building form is generated by enclosing, defining and confronting the spaces and existing buildings of the larger site. Studios overlook the newly captured spaces. Students are in the midst of the urban activity which they will study and will eventually help form and influence.
Beauvoir; Biloxi, Mississippi
Albert & Associates Architects
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina ripped the piers out from under the porches causing structural failure of the entire front porch and the roof over the front porch, as well as compromising the integrity of the chimneys. Failure of the roof over the front porch also caused extensive damage to adjacent interior ceilings. Ultimately, the mansion had barely survived the worst weather event in its 153 year history with a severely compromised foundation and an overly vulnerable envelope. The jury said of this project, “A wonderful, archetypal house with significant history has been brought back from the dead. This project transcends the typical restoration project – restoring Beauvoir was truly a labor of love and it shows in every detail of the home.”
Brochstein Pavilion and Central Quad; Houston
Thomas Phifer and Partners
Centrally located on Rice University’s campus, the Raymond and Susan Brochstein Pavilion was conceived as a destination for students and faculty to interact and share ideas in a relaxed environment. Carefully sited at an important intersection of campus pathways to create a new hub of activity, the Pavilion encourages interaction without interrupting pedestrian movement through campus. The Brochstein Pavilion is capped by a steel trellis structure which protects the building and extends in all directions to cover and shade the surrounding seating terrace.
Camino Nuevo High School; Los Angeles
Daly Genik
A winding form for the 30,000 square foot, 18-classroom building maximizes the space available on the oddly shaped site. Additionally, by single-loading the one, main classroom building, two important social and sustainable functions were accomplished with simple solutions: direct visual connections are established between the classrooms and the inner courtyard and natural light flows into each classroom from both the windows on the street side and courtyard side. The courtyard has become the hub of the school.
Campus Restaurant and Event Space; Stuttgart, Germany
Barkow Leibinger Architects
The pavilion provides a new central cafeteria and event space for a Stuttgart-based industrial campus. When programmed for events the space functions as an auditorium with seating for 800. A floating roof hovers over the central dining space and mezzanine that are placed in an excavated hollow. The intention was to create a polygonal leaf-like canopy that wide-spans over column-groups. Aesthetically, the roof as a fifth facade, is carefully organized with skylights, and air-vents, as it is highly visible from the mid-rise office buildings adjacent to it.
Macallen Building; Boston
Office dA, Inc. and Burt Hill
As a pivotal building in the urban revitalization of South Boston, the Macallen’s design required a reassessment of conventional residential typologies to produce an innovative and sustainable building that worked within a developer’s competitive budget. The Macallen is fully integrated— in structure, and sustainability— and is replete with sustainable features to make it the first LEED gold certified building of its type in Boston.
Outpost; Central Idaho
Olson Kundig Architects
Set in the remote and harsh high desert landscape of Idaho, Outpost is an artist live/work studio and sculpture garden for making and displaying art. The architects chose a readily available construction material – concrete block – for the primary structure; commercial builders were able to quickly and cheaply assemble the building. Interiors are exposed and unfinished. The footprint of the building is the limit of intrusion into the landscape – a simple, clearly defined space within the landscape.
Serta International Center; Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Epstein | Metter Studios
The project is a 90,000 square foot world corporate headquarters for Serta International Mattress Company located on a 20-acre Illinois prairie site. The building has been designed to facilitate equal access to natural light, ventilation and views of the wetlands for all employees. To accomplish this, the floor plan has been layered from a glass edged public circulation path on the east, to an open office area on the west toward the wetlands. The design also takes advantage of the variations in the topography of the site, to weave together the building and the landscape into a strong holistic composition.
Skirkanich Hall; Philadelphia
Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects
Located in the heart of the University of Pennsylvania, Skirkanich Hall is home to the Bioengineering Department. It is an infill building that functions as a connector by creating a new public quadrangle and entry for the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. Movement and interaction is emphasized with generous circulation spaces that offer places to sit and gather. To subtly stand out from the red brick buildings next door, a new kind of brick was developed through an extensive process to balance texture, color, durability, and stability.
Step Up on 5th; Santa Monica, California
Pugh + Scarpa
The new 46-unit mixed-use building provides a home and support services for the mentally disabled homeless population. The main façade made from custom water jet anodized aluminum panels creates a screen that sparkles in the sun and glows at night, while also acting as sun protection and privacy screens. The project incorporates energy efficient measures that exceed standard practice, optimize building performance, and ensure reduced energy. The design emerged from close consideration and employment of passive solar design strategies that make this building 50 percent more efficient than a conventionally designed structure.
TKTS Booth and the Revitalization of Father Duffy Square; New York City
Perkins Eastman, Choi Ropiha, and PKSB Architects
The new TKTS Booth, including the redevelopment of Father Duffy Square, creates a new center for Times Square. The project began in 1999 with a design competition to re-design the popular TKTS booth. The transformation of the public space of Father Duffy Square by the Plaza architect allows for increased pedestrian traffic and more prominence for Father Duffy’s commanding statue. “With its elegant conception and realization, its refined design stands up to the cacophony of Times Square; this is as much a 21stCentury art piece as a building,” said the jury.
Urban Outfitters Corporate Campus; Philadelphia
Meyer, Scherer & Rockcastle, Ltd.
The design of the Urban Outfitters Corporate Campus, housed in five rehabilitated buildings in the historic Philadelphia Navy Yard centers on utilizing the factory characteristics of the buildings—industrial materiality, open volumes, and access to daylight—to repurpose the buildings’ major function from production to creativity. The synthesis of four measures—art, culture, economy and environment—results in the transformation from a public, production-based yard to a private, creativity-based one.
Yale University Art Gallery, Kahn Building Renovation; New Haven, Connecticut
Polshek Partnership Architects
Completed in 1953, the Kahn Building is widely considered to be the visionary American architect’s first masterpiece and a significant turning point in the history of American museum architecture. The renovation of the landmark building reestablishes its original purity and integrity, restoring many original design features that had become altered or obscured over the years. Roofed over in the 1970’s to create additional gallery space, an exterior courtyard has been restored as an open exterior sculpture space.
2010 Institute Honor Awards for Interior Architecture
The jury for the 2010 Institute Honor Awards for Interior Architecture includes: Daniel H. Wheeler, FAIA, (chair) Wheeler Kearns Architects, Inc.; David H. Hart, FAIA, Utah Capitol Preservation Board; Audrey A. Matlock, AIA, Audrey Matlock, Architect; Audrey Stokes O'Hagan, AIA, Audrey O’Hagan Architect and Clive R. Wilkinson, AIA, RIBA, Clive Wilkinson Architects.
The Cathedral of Christ the Light; Oakland, California
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP and Kendall/Heaton Associates, Inc.
The Diocese challenged the design team to create a building for the ages. As a result, the 1,350-seat sanctuary, with its side chapels, baptistery, health and legal clinics, and dependencies, will honor its religious and civic obligations to the Catholic Diocese and the city for centuries to come. The Omega Window resonates with the surrounding structure metaphorically and physically through its experimental use of light, re-imagining a 12th-century depiction of Christ from the façade of Chartres Cathedral in France through over 94,000 pixels cut into the Window’s triangular aluminum panels.
CHANEL Robertson Blvd.; Los Angeles
Peter Marino Architect
Zoning restrictions dictated preservation of an existing building, which was stripped down to the bare wood frame. Through the open street façade a gently rising promenade passes through three distinct “zones” to a semi-obscured stair hinting at continued exploration above. The U-shaped first floor is organized around an exterior courtyard with a plaster façade punctured by 17 uniformly sized openings. The unifying courtyard is present in each ‘room’, but always freshly orientated in both plan and section.
Craftsteak; New York City
Bentel & Bentel Architects
The architect’s ultimate goal was to shape, within the one hundred year old shell of this previous National Biscuit Company bakery building, a simple yet texturally and spatially rich interior that integrates the context with the food service both functionally and metaphorically. Inspired by chef and owner Tom Colicchio’s culinary approach of uncomplicated respect for the ingredient, all furnishings and fittings, such as the walnut and steel dining tables, were designed to celebrate their materials and the simple craftsmanship used to assemble them.
Data; Omaha, Nebraska
Randy Brown Architects
The client is one of America’s leading providers of mailing lists, marketing data, sales leads and research data. The client’s challenge to the architect was to create a fresh new design for their office that expresses who they are. The design focused on three elements: an etched glass conference room wall expressing the company’s data, a cut and bent wall/ceiling form which connects the office together and galvanized metal shed wall panels to express both ideas of technology and the Midwest rural vernacular of the company’s founding location.
Exeter Schools Multipurpose Space; Exeter, Missouri
Dake Wells Architecture
The challenge was to design a single space that functions well as a cafeteria, practice gym and performance hall. Solving the acoustic challenges of these varied uses led to a solution derived from a sushi roll - absorptive on its outermost layer with a thin, reflective inner layer. Attention is paid to detailing the wood panels to distribute sound appropriately for performances while protecting light fixtures and mechanical systems for use as a gymnasium.
Historic Central Park West Residence; New York City
Shelton, Mindel & Associates
This project called for combining two untouched, disparate penthouses (circa 1920) in one of Manhattan’s noted landmark beaux-arts revival buildings to create one cohesive, seamless residence. It had to retain the best of the historic past, while still being appropriate to our time. Additional goals involved taking full advantage of the four exposures of light, mezzanine, conservatory, rooftop access and views of Manhattan’s Central Park. In addition, the architect provided for the philanthropist owner a residence easily maneuvered and divided into “public” and “private” spaces for work and family.
Vera Wang Boutique; Soho, New York City
Gabellini Sheppard Associates
Customers enter as performers on a stage, stepping into the elevated, double-height proscenium at the front of the store. The spatial sequence unfolds down a full-width, white Corian grand stair, which transitions into the more intimate display and changing area at the rear of the space. With LED backlighting, the steps appear to float; they double as seating for special events or a display riser with translucent acrylic platforms. Reflecting the juxtapositions that characterize Vera Wang’s fashion design, the material palette is based on a series of complementary contrasts.
2010 Institute Honor Award for Regional and Urban Design
The jury for the 2010 Institute Honor Awards for Regional and Urban Design includes:John F. Torti, FAIA, (chair), Torti Gallas & Partners, Inc.; Lance Jay Brown, FAIA, Lance Jay Brown Architecture & Urban; Brenda Scheer, AIA, University of Utah College of Architecture + Planning; Edward K. Uhlir, FAIA, Uhlir Consulting, LLC and Debby Wieneke, Habitat for Humanity of Benton County, Inc.
A Civic Vision for the Central Delaware River; Philadelphia
Wallace Roberts & Todd
Currently cut off from the city by the intrusion of I-95, this riverfront plan emphasizes the ecological and economic value of the waterfront and sets forth a framework that the city can follow to generate new, cohesive, and sustainable development. This new growth will be organized around parks and open space, providing access to the river and a new movement system. For the ability of the plan to accommodate the future needs of the city and its people, this project has received numerous endorsements.
Connections: MacArthur Park District Master Plan; Little Rock, Arkansas
Conway+Schulte Architects
The planning concept optimizes the park’s latent economic, environmental and social potential through improvements to the district’s neighborhood infrastructure, enhancing the delivery of ecological and urban services. The planning goal is to align the park’s capacity to sponsor denser and higher quality mixed-use housing fabric throughout the district with improvements to the park grounds. Rather than treat MacArthur Park as a discrete project, planning for the district’s four neighborhoods extends the park’s landscape into a larger urban landscape network with MacArthur Park as the anchor.
Greenwich South Strategic Framework; New York City
Architecture Research Office
The architecture firm developed Five Principles to define a vision for the future of Greenwich South as a dense, reconnected, mixed-use neighborhood and lynchpin for Lower Manhattan. Each principle is comprised of a set of clear objectives to be achieved within these goals. In addition to establishing principles and setting goals, the firm also identified a series of clear opportunities for action—from the subtle, genius and immediate to the huge, radical and visionary—to achieve these goals.
The U.S. House Office Buildings Facilities Plan and Preliminary South Capitol Area Plan; Washington, D.C.
Wallace Roberts & Todd
The U.S. Capitol Complex in Washington, D.C. is one of the most significant and sensitive places in our country. Within it, the U.S. House of Representatives is its largest component. The House Office Buildings Plan and South Capitol Area Plan defines a vision for fulfilling the current and future space and functional needs of the House, serves as the basis for organizing, budgeting, and funding its long-range capital improvements, and establishes an interface with the future re-development of the South Capitol District from the U.S. Capitol Complex to the Anacostia River.
Monumental Core Framework Plan; Washington, D.C.
U. S. Government
The Monumental Core Framework Plan is a proposal sponsored by two federal agencies, the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts and the National Capital Planning Commission, to transform federal precincts surrounding the National Mall into vibrant destinations and to improve connections between the city, the National Mall, and the waterfront. The Plan proposes a series of sector-by-sector strategies that are designed to protect the National Mall, create distinctive settings for cultural facilities and commemorative works, overcome barriers between the National Mall and the surrounding city, and enhance the monumental core of Washington as a symbolic and sustainable place to work, visit, and live.
Ryerson University Master Plan; Toronto, Ontario
Kuwabara Payne McKenna Blumberg Architects
While the Master Plan was developed to deal effectively with the Ryerson University (RU) campus’ deficiencies, it ultimately foregrounds Ryerson as a city building, and a model for the 21st Century urban university. Each goal of the Master Plan is defined by a series of principles, and together, they form the flexible framework which will guide the growth of Ryerson University. These goals are: urban intensification, people first (pedestrianization of the urban environment) and a commitment to design excellence.
Savannah East Riverfront Extension; Savannah, Georgia
Sottile & Sottile
The design process evolved over a five-year timeframe including multiple public charrettes between the city, citizens, property owners and development interests. The Civic Master Plan for the East Riverfront Expansion was implemented by the city in 2006. It defines 54 acres located to the immediate east of Savannah’s National Landmark Historic District along the Savannah River. New city blocks, parks, public spaces and a 2000 foot river walk extension are currently under construction. The initial private sector build out is expected in 10 years at an estimated cost of 800 million dollars.
About The American Institute of Architects
For over 150 years, members of the American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. By using sustainable design practices, materials, and techniques, AIA architects are uniquely poised to provide the leadership and guidance needed to provide solutions to address climate change. AIA architects walk the walk on sustainable design. Visit www.aia.org.
AIA Announces recipients of the Young Architects Award
& Collaborative Achievement Award
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently announced the recipients of two different awards;
Young Architects Award and Collaborative Achievement Award: The Young Architects Award recognizes professionals who have been licensed 10 years or fewer regardless of their age. This award honors individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession early in their careers.
The other award, the Collaborative Achievement Award recognizes distinguished achievements of allied professionals, clients, organizations, architect teams, knowledge communities, and others who have had a beneficial influence on or advanced the architectural profession.
Click the links below to see the press release and a larger write up about these awards and the recipients:
Young Architects Award press release:
http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB082335
More info on the recipients here:
http://www.aia.org/practicing/awards/AIAB082221
Collaborative Achievement Award press release:
http://www.aia.org/press/releases/AIAB082289
More info on the recipients here:
http://www.aia.org/practicing/awards/AIAB082151
The AIA will be announcing the 2010 list of newly elevated fellows in the coming days.
More Than 800 Architects Serving in Elected and Appointed Positions
Positions include mayors, city council members and planning commissioners
Washington, D.C. – February 4, 2009 – As part of a commitment to increasing the number of architects running for political office or serving on appointed boards/commissions, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) passed a resolution honoring and supporting "citizen architects." At this year's AIA national legislative Grassroots Conference there will be a Citizen Architect panel focusing on the importance of civic engagement for the architecture profession. A recently completed AIA survey revealed that there are at least 850 architects – more than one percent of total membership – who are serving in an elected or appointed role.
Examples of the level of engagement:
- 6 mayors
- 36 environmental board members
- 48 Community Development commissioners
- 51 Building Codes Board members
- 53 city council members
- 54 zoning board members
- 84 architectural design review board members
- 92 Historic Preservation commissioners
- 158 planning commissioners
"The results of the survey, and the enthusiastic outreach from membership concerning this initiative, is helping the AIA pinpoint the target audience for programs that will give architects tools in their public lives and provide tools to help those who have not yet made that step, but are interested in getting more engaged with their community," said AIA director, Local Relations, Brooks Rainwater.
A Citizen Architect directory is currently being developed and there will be a Citizen Architect Exchange at the AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in San Francisco. Click here for more information on AIA Local Relations.
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