Please help us give a big “Thank You” to Michael Hammon, AIA. Michael has been our State NCARB Licensing Advisor for the past 4 years.
In the 4 years since his appointment by the AIA Virginia Board of Directors, Michael has answered MANY member questions about licensure, IDP/AXP supervision, and shared advice with those on the path to licensure.
The Architect Licensing Advisors Community is a group of volunteers committed to assisting licensure candidates and architects as they navigate the path to licensure and reciprocity. Architect licensing advisors provide guidance throughout the licensure process by facilitating the flow of information to architecture students, licensure candidates, and architects.
It is hard to believe that June has arrived so quickly. The last five months of “spring” have passed in a blur.
I am sitting here in the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, reflecting on the past few days at A’23, (AIA National Convention). A’23 felt like Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx) on steroids. It was exciting to see old friends and make new ones; to share a laugh and a memory with colleagues. I feel melancholy knowing that it is time for me to leave this “escape”, friends, colleagues, and experiences. As I reflect, on the last few days, here are just a few quick observations.
After participating in the business meetings and elections, there is no doubt that the Institute is in a position to continue leading.
Issues of climate change, advocacy, social equity & diversity, and generational transitions are at the forefront of the Institute’s mission.
It was a great honor to see Robert L. Easter, FAIA (2022 AIA Virginia President) receive the Whitney M. Young Jr. and to witness Robert V. Reis, FAIA (2019 AIA Virginia President) invested into the College of Fellows. The opportunity was especially exciting since I have had the opportunity to serve with both and know that each is very deserving!
The leadership training and education opportunities were robust and stimulating.
The keynote speakers were engaging and inspiring.
At the end of it all there is no doubt that Institute is moving forward with, promoting the fact that architects are well-positioned to address those issues which confront both the profession and the world in which we live.
As I look forward I am reminded that June is a busy month for AIA Virginia.
AIA Virginia Honor Nominations are due June 16th, 2023.
AIA Virginia Design Awards Submissions are due June 28th, 2023.
The 2023 Art of Practice will take place on Friday, June 23rd, 2023 at Common House Charlottesville. This is an event that deals directly with the practice of architecture. We’ve kept registration open through Friday, so register today>>
Right around the corner is ArchEx, which is scheduled for November 1-3, 2023, in Richmond. And a special note – we’ll celebrate our Design Award winners and AIA Virginia Honorees at Visions for Architecture on THURSDAY night, November 2nd this year.
As I close this note, I hope everybody has an opportunity to take some time off and enjoy life over the next couple of months. I look forward to seeing everybody at the Art of Practice at the end of June.
We understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure. This is great news that thrills all of us and we are so proud to call you architects!
Anne S. Hall, AIA (Blue Ridge) Alex Cejka, AIA (Hampton Roads)
Have you recently passed the ARE? Upgrade your membership to Architect using this AIA form. or send an email to your Member Services Director, Cathy Guske, cguske@aiava.org
Are you ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia has 60-day Amber Book subscriptions for $50 here>>
Have questions about licensure? Contact AIA Virginia’s State Licensing Advisor, Michael Hammon, AIA at mhammon@glaveandholmes.com
Charley A. Danner, AIA (Richmond) from AIA Illinois Parisa Najimi, Int’l. Assoc. AIA (Richmond) from AIA California Robert S. Phinney, AIA (Northern Virginia) from AIA New York State Benjamin L. Robbins, AIA (Central Virginia) from AIA Kentucky
New/Renewed Allied Members
Kelly Batchelder, Architectural Rep, Nello Wall Systems Patrick Dyer, Vice President, Gulf Seaboard General Contractors Inc. Rick Berrey, Kjellstrom+Lee Construction
2023 Advocacy Summit: a point of departure, not a destination Members consistently rank advocacy, which is particularly appropriate to the state-level component, as a leading factor in determining the value of their membership. It gives us great pleasure to deliver that value. More>>
Art of Practice Join us in Charlottesville on June 23rd for the Art of Practice Conference. Our focus will include assessing your readiness for and planning for times of economic stress, as well as considering the range of factors “stressing” our members and maintaining resilience. The firm-size roundtables will also convene as part of the conference. Limited seats remain! More>>
Meet the 2023 ELA Class Get to know the members of the Emerging Leaders in Architecture class of 2023 a little bit better. More>>
Call for Nominations: AIA Virginia Honors Do you have a colleague who deserves recognition? Is there a firm with a great culture that consistently produces incredible work? Is there a building that has captured your heart? Consider nominating them for an award in AIA Virginia’s 2023 Honors Awards program. More>>
Support the PAC – Win Cash for Your Component The AIA Virginia PAC is one of the sharpest tools in our advocacy toolkit. The AIA Virginia PAC Award celebrates the engagement and commitment of a local AIA component that supports the advancement and mission of the PAC. The Award is presented at Architecture Exchange East. AIA Central Virginia currently holds the trophy. More>>
Jury Selects 2023 AIA Virginia Prize Winner Five architecture students have been selected as recipients of the 2023 AIA Virginia Prize. The jury named University of Virginia’s Lydia Cartwright as the competition’s overall winner of the $2,000 prize. More>>
There is still time on the Clock for the AIA 2030 Commitment The latest climate data tells us that merely reducing carbon emissions is not enough. To make the biggest impact, we must all commit to net zero emissions by 2030. And since the built environment creates a staggering 40% of the world’s emissions, architects, engineers, and owners play a key role. More>>
Design Awards Jury Announced A committee of esteemed architects chaired by Ray Calabro, FAIA, will judge the entries for AIA Virginia’s 2023 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Joining Calabro on the jury are Jennifer Devlin-Herbert, FAIA; and Omar Gandhi, FRAAC. More>>
Update from the Small Firm Exchange (SFx) Read about the recent work of the Small Firm Exchange from our representative Dan Zimmerman. More>>
Call for Entries: Design Awards Entries to the 2023 Design Awards program are now being accepted. AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture (also known as the Design Awards) recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. More>>
Welcome These New Members We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined AIA Virginia. More>>
Inform’s New “Member Voices” Feature Wants You! Inform welcomes thought leadership from its members across the Commonwealth under the banner of “Member Voices.” Send us ideas, case studies, research, and best practices you want to share with others. Email Bill Richards by the deadline below to get started: Decarbonization: By May 22
Newly Licensed Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure. More>>
Are You Ready to Get Licensed? Just a few licenses remain. AIA Virginia associate members can get a 60-day subscription to the Amber Book for only $50. More>>
Reach out to AIA Virginia AIA Virginia is updating our phone system. To contact us, please call (804) 644-3041 and leave a message, email info@aiava.org, or reach out to a specific staff member using the mobile numbers in their email signatures.
AIA Virginia’s award-winning Emerging Leaders in Architecture (ELA) program was developed in 2009 to jump-start the careers of young professionals. Conceived of and lead by a passionate steering committee of successful architects (ALL past ELA alumni!), the program was designed to share the things they wished they had learned in architecture school.
Each of the seven day-long sessions focuses on developing essential skills like community engagement, collaboration, firm creation, financial management, advocacy, public service, and much more. The remaining monthly sessions are dedicated to their class project from a region around the commonwealth.
Want to be a member of this elite group of leaders? The application for the 2024 class will be available later this summer. Contact Cathy Guske for information on how to nominate an emerging leader or with any questions about the program.
We asked members of the ELA class of 2023 the same five questions. Get to know them better by seeing their inspiring answers.
Mira Abdalla, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Last month for Ramadan my friends and I visited the Ottoman-style Diyanet Mosque in Maryland, and it was such a transformative experience for me. To be in a building that felt like the physical and spatial manifestation of something so inexplicable and divine was incredible. Upon entering, I was awestruck by the large void filled with light. The way the Qur’an recitation reverberated in this space seeped into my soul and stuck with me for days after. It was the most tranquil architectural experience I’ve had in a long while.
What is the last book you read? Architectural Ornament: Banishment & Return by Brent C Brolin (lent to me by my lovely mentor, Julia!)
How did you discover your passion for architecture? In high school, I was in an architectural drafting program while also taking AP Art History. I remember in Art History always being especially excited to discuss the works of architecture. I felt there was something so beautiful and poetic about these works of art that are experienced three-dimensionally and tell the stories of their inhabitants. I always loved storytelling, but it was then that I realized architecture is my favorite way to do it.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Anything where I can sit outside & soak up the sun! I love having picnics with friends, going to farmer’s markets, reading on my porch, and admiring Charlottesville’s beautiful scenery from any good spot I can find!
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Architecture is subjective, don’t be afraid to have your own opinions. Think about what your unique background, interests, & experiences can bring to the world of architecture, and lean into it!
Emily Baker, AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? A few years ago visiting Barcelona, I got to tour the famous Casa Mila. I ended up spending a ridiculous amount of time on the rooftop traversing the undulating walkways, peering around sculptural formations, and enjoying the vantage points created of the surrounding city skyline. It was like its own little fantastical world up there!
What is the last book you read? Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I’ve always been curious about how the built environment can influence how one lives, works, and plays. Coming from a small town, the complexity and sometimes chaotic nature of cities fascinated me. I found myself considering both architecture and urban planning for college majors. I ended up selecting architecture because I liked the idea of influencing a city’s built environment at a more micro level – one building at a time – and being able to physically stand within something that started with just a blank sheet of paper and my imagination.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Taking my two dogs hiking/camping. Allows time for silent reflection, while listening to the calming sounds of nature – plus it’s great exercise!
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? There are a lot of career paths that an architectural education can lead you. Take opportunities to ask other architects about their educational/professional journey, as it may spark inspiration for your own path.
Lindsey Blum, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? The Tate Modern Switch House by Herzog and de Meuron. On a recent trip to London, I found myself captivated by the main stairwell. I spent around an hour chatting with a woman on holiday from her law firm in Boston. She said she’d never particularly loved the art in the Tate but had been back three times to enjoy this space.
What is the last book you read? Taste by Stanley Tucci, “The Tooch”
How did you discover your passion for architecture? At first, I had a simple love of making things. When I was young, I was building small towns for my stuffed animals from used detergent bottles and old pizza boxes. As I grew up, I was afforded several opportunities to make things for others – from large porch ramps to small home improvements. A slight dose of naivety led me to pursue architecture simply for the love of making things. I have been fortunate to find a great love of both design and community in architecture as a result.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Dare I say running? Without fail, my greatest moments of relaxation stem from the perfect balance of popcorn, peanut M&M’s, and some good tunes.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Be cognizant of the architect’s role to know “a little bit about everything.” Prioritize and consume the things that get you excited about architecture and design.
Perry Hammond, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston is pretty amazing. I felt transported to a different time and place when inside. The combination of plants, art, and low light made me feel like I was in a novel.
What is the last book you read? Designing The Forest by Lindsey Wikstrom.
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I think my relationship with architecture turned from interest to passion when I realized how connected the built environment is to the natural environment. Rather than seeing a division between buildings and ecology, I’ve come to accept the complex entanglement of the two with hopes of benefiting both equally through design. Architecture has tremendous power to change our communities and environment, and it’s up to us to decide what that change looks like.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? I enjoy going on walks, whether in an urban environment or in nature.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Find what aspect of architecture makes you excited and pursue that above all else.
Ava Helm, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Recently, I have not been inspired by one building, but the many I see while walking around the streets of DC where I work. The variety of different building types, colors, materials, etc all work in different ways, and you never know when you’ll stumble upon something inspiring!
What is the last book you read? The 7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
How did you discover your passion for architecture? Long story short, I discovered my passion for architecture from a high school teacher. I had no interest in going into architecture and he convinced me to take his architecture class. I ended up loving it and decided to test the waters with the Syracuse University Summer Architecture Program. This opened the floodgates and I have not looked back since!
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? I like to go on long walks with my dog.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? My advice is to trust yourself. Architecture is hard and it’s okay to make mistakes. You need to trust that you are doing the best you can. When it gets hard,take it one day at a time, but don’t forget to smile!
Anna Kniceley, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond, VA.
What is the last book you read? Essentialism by Greg McKeown
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I’ve always had a fascination with construction. This likely comes from having an engineer for a dad and growing up around uncles with hauling and excavating businesses. After my freshman year at Virginia Tech, I was on track to transfer from Business into the Interior Design program. However, in the summer transfer studio, my eyes were widened to the endless possibilities of Architecture. I owe a tremendous amount of thanks to Dr. Hilary Bryon for steering me into the Architecture program.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? You can usually find me going for walks with my dog, Emmie Kay while listening to an audiobook or podcast.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Be curious about everything! Form positive relationships with engineering colleagues and find people who are willing to answer any type of question.
Jason Lin, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Taliesin West by Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s always invigorating to see works by Architects that you’ve studied in school. I was amazed by the identity of the spaces and just how much of the surrounding area was inspired by Wright’s work.
What is the last book you read? A Dance with Dragons by George R.R. Martin. The televised ending left me wanting more.
How did you discover your passion for architecture? It’s embarrassing to admit, but I was watching How I Met Your Mother throughout my senior year of high school and really resonated with Ted Mosby, who was a, you guessed it, an Architect on the show. I had taken some drafting classes as well and enjoyed the craft, I applied and got into Virginia Tech for both Architecture and Engineering and made the decision to begin my journey.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Love playing volleyball and gaming with my friends.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Ask questions. You can never learn enough and don’t be afraid to take risks and go beyond your comfort zone.
Caitlin Morgan, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg, VA. This historic downtown treasure has such rich stories within its architectural details, and as a Harrisonburg native, it makes these little details even more special. Since 1856, the Warren-Sipe House has served the community in many ways – Civil War hospital, rec center, family home, temporary court house, and finally the home of the Virginia Quilt Museum. Even the exhibits complement the 1800s-style gallery space where some of the quilts are older than the house itself. Every time I volunteer with the museum, I gain a new understanding of how valuable these historic treasures are to downtown neighborhoods and the adaptable longevity of architecture in society.
What is the last book you read? The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. It’s a fascinating mix of architecture, history, and culture rooted in the development of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I always share the cliché story of playing with Legos and building mini-cities as a kid (because it’s true!), but as I grew up and learned more about what architecture is, I found a love for how it incorporates anthropology, historic preservation, art and design, and more. There are so many facets to architecture that it feels like there’s something new to discover every day.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? My brain doesn’t know how to stay still, so I’ve been spending more time on activities where I can keep moving while letting my head focus on a single task… Painting, making music, golfing (new to this one but loving it!), sketching, and even quilting.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Find a way to set yourself apart! This is sometimes daunting, but once you find something you love, become a resource for others also interested in that trademark. Early in my career (i.e. during the global pandemic) I teamed up with three colleagues in architecture to create Emerge AEC, a passion project that connects emerging professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. Every month, we host virtual events for AEC professionals at every experience level with topics that range from professional development to little-known AEC careers. Check out @EmergeAEC on Instagram and learn more at EmergeAEC.com!
Javius Richardson, AIAS
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? During my first time at the African American Smithsonian last summer, the building overall and lighting qualities made a negative or sad reaction feel more like a connection to a timeline of history. The way the building was separated by open floors it was like a separation of emotional value but it became more positive as you traveled from floor to floor. It was a great opportunity to be able to see how the building formed the experience.
What is the last book you read? Since I am still a student at Hampton University, it seems my day always ends byreading The Architects studio companion by Edward Allen and Joseph Iano
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I discovered my passion for architecture after discovering engineering wasn’t a path I wanted to take at Hampton and I was having trouble finding something I loved to do or really interested me. I had colleagues who were making beautiful projects that involved everything I loved to do and I grew up around it, and soon I realized my real passion was architecture. It felt like it was meant to be and I have loved it ever since.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? I enjoy cooking and a slow night at home watching Netflix.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? For aspiring architects like myself, I’ve learned to stay humble and learn as much as you can from others and the profession in general, apply for any and all internships, and don’t be afraid to take a leap of faith even if you are not confident. Everyone has a pace in this profession but you do what’s best for you.
Adam Schultz, AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? Tate Modern, London
What is the last book you read? Till We Have Faces, by CS Lewis
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I discovered my passion for architecture through a school assignment in 4th grade. We were presented with several text descriptions of theater set designs to select from and to design what it might look like. Immediately after painting the materials and atmosphere imagined as the perfect set for the play, I thought and felt that designing spaces was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Draw and paint.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Slow down. Make beautiful things.
Veena Shah, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? I recently attended the Richmond Symphony at the Carpenter Theater, a centerpiece for the Dominion Energy Center for the performing arts. I felt that the impressive façade with intricate details and terracotta decorations immediately reached out to the artistic side, giving me a taste of what was to come. The auditorium features richly colored tapestries, stunning paintings, and intricate statues, which helped create a complete and immersive experience. I found the whimsical and enchanting atmosphere created by the décor to accentuate the tonal works of the symphony by transporting me to a different dimension. The Carpenter Theater (and the performance) truly left a lasting impression on me, and I can’t wait to experience it again.
What is the last book you read? Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less, written by Axios co-founders Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, and Roy Schwartz. With clear, practical advice and relatable examples, the book is a truly impactful guide toward effective communication in today’s digital world. I enjoyed reading the book and have since tried to keep my emails to the point!
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I have always been curious about human psychology and behavior. One of the most memorable moments in my life has been living on a stunning houseboat made of all-wood interiors. The juxtaposition between the enclosed spaces in the houseboat and the openness of the lake left was quite fascinating. I believe it was curiosity towards this evocative and experience-based nature of architecture that drew me towards studying architecture.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? I find comfort in spending time with the people I love. I also find playing board games, exploring new places, sitting by a water body, and watching sunsets quite soothing.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Each person has unique skills and perspectives that make them an effective architect. Try to figure out your strengths and ways to leverage them. I find experiences to be the best teacher so jump in and try out different things. For example, participating in the ELA program has offered me opportunities to discover my working style in a non-hierarchical environment.
Cat Smith, AIAS
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? The Virginia Tech WAAC building in Old Town, Alexandria. Being in graduate school evokes a lot of strong feelings over the widest possible spectrum of emotion.
What is the last book you read? Smoke Gets in Your Eyes: And Other Lessons from the Crematory by Caitlin Doughty. I’m designing a cemetery and funeral home for my graduate thesis, which has led to some fun reading material. This is a great book for getting an inside perspective of the death industry.
How did you discover your passion for architecture? Honestly, I don’t think I fully discovered my passion until I started working in an office on real projects. A lot of my experience so far has been with affordable housing projects in Virginia. I’ve been honored to build a partnership with a group of residents in Charlottesville who are working to redevelop their current neighborhood. It’s been really exciting to be involved in projects where architecture is being used to solve real-world problems and improve people’s lives.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? When I have the time, I love to go hiking or just walk through nature.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Try everything you can! Work on different building types, go to networking events and building tours, talk to peers and mentors about their experiences, and join different professional groups and organizations. The field is so broad, and there are a million different ways you can fit in, so don’t limit yourself, especially when you’re just starting out.
Briana “Bri” Smith-Stiff, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? One of the most recent buildings I visited that sparked my design engine was the WAAC building. (Washington Alexandria Architecture Center). An extension of the Virginia Tech architectural program. I was able to visit during one of our ELA Sessions and I was so inspired and blown away by the variety of specialty design workshops the students could participate in. I was inspired by all the creativity, the patterns, and the material choices of the decor which also served as the projects of former students.
What was the last book you read? Seamless: Understanding the Bible as One Complete Story by Angie Smith
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I discovered my interest in architecture during multiple puzzle nights with my mother. When working on complex puzzles she would share a dream about a house she would love to live in. She would go into much detail explaining her desired experiences in each room and space of the house. As she spoke, I would begin to start sketching out what that would look like. I would then create little models of each space and began to piece these spaces together like a giant puzzle.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? I enjoy being in or near water. I enjoy swimming, relaxing at the beach, and my newfound joy canoeing. Throw a full body massage at the spa in there then I’m in my peaceful place.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? It’s a wonderful thing to establish a love for architecture, but don’t forget to give yourself room to explore the many avenues architecture can guide you to and through. The journey of architecture is a whirl of endless opportunities. Enjoy trying new things!
John Sturniolo, AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? While on a trip to the Shenandoah Valley, I ended up seeing some really rural building details. Some of them were incredibly unique and intricate and brought me immense joy; like finding a shiny gem beneath a mountain… And yet some elements were so incredibly bad that I could not help but wonder what the person may have been thinking! To me, architecture is about the little details, so that is where my eyes are drawn to.
What is the last book you read? Monstress by Marjorie Liu & Sana Takeda (Graphic Novel)
How did you discover your passion for architecture? I wish I could say it was Legos because I’ve been utterly obsessed with them since I was a child and still am to this day. But in reality, I took several technical drafting classes in high school, one being more architecture focused. There was a project where we had to hand-draft a house floor plan that we designed ourselves. My design was utterly horrible, but I stayed up late into the early hours of the morning to get it done, simply drawing and poche-ing along, completely engrossed in the project. Eventually, I realized, “Yeah, I could probably do this for a living”, and decided to pursue architecture as a career.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? In no particular order: Reading, Legos, disappearing into video games, attempting to catch up on sleep, visiting a local brewery, making a new dish in the kitchen, finding a park or hiking trail to explore.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? Be willing to learn. Be willing to make and admit your mistakes. Do try your best. Always have a favorite pen.
Kelsey White, Associate AIA
What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative? I’m currently planning a trip to Chicago this summer and researching the buildings I want to go see, as one does. I’m most excited to see the Aqua Tower by Studio Gang. I love how she created an organic, sculptural facade with a functional element.
What is the last book you read? The Scholomance Trilogy by Naomi Novik
How did you discover your passion for architecture? Through my family. My Dad and brother are architects, we always nerd out at family get-togethers and bore the rest of the family.
What is your favorite thing to do to relax? Spend time with friends or be a happy introvert at home with a puzzle and my dog.
What advice do you have for aspiring architects? The advice I have to remind myself occasionally: you’re always learning, especially in this field where building science is constantly evolving. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what stage you’re at in your career, it’s impossible to know everything. Don’t let imposter syndrome take hold.
I am thrilled to share my recent involvement with the Small Firm Exchange (SFx) in this edition of our member newsletter. The SFx’s primary mission is to foster connections among local, state, and national members, creating a stronger network of support and collaboration. As part of this initiative, we actively engage in monthly calls with state representatives, discussing pressing issues and sharing insights. Additionally, we organize bi-monthly “all calls,” where we delve deep into specific topics that I would like to highlight. The first brought together the Small Firm Exchange (SFx) and the Young Architects Forum (YAF), reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity and intergenerational collaboration. The second “all call” revolved around sustainability, with a particular focus on the AIA’s 2030 challenge and how small firms like ours can play a pivotal role in driving this vital initiative forward.
It has been fantastic connecting with fellow architects through the SFx, amplifying our collective voice and expanding our professional horizons. The monthly calls with state representatives have provided an invaluable platform to address pertinent issues, exchange best practices, and advocate for positive change within our industry. Our bi-monthly “all calls” have proven equally enriching, offering us an opportunity to explore key subjects in greater depth. The first “all call” was with leaders of the Young Architects Forum (YAF), fostering meaningful relationships and nurturing collaboration between emerging and seasoned professionals. The work of the YAF is inspiring, and during our discussion, we laid the groundwork for future joint initiatives.
In our second “all call,” sustainability took center stage. Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change, we focused on the AIA’s 2030 challenge and explored how small firms can actively participate in and champion this transformative initiative. With a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable design, we engaged in thought-provoking discussions, shared success stories, and identified practical steps that our firms can take to make a positive impact. By harnessing the power of our collective knowledge and experience, we aim to be at the forefront of driving change and creating a sustainable future for our profession.
I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Virginia on the Small Firm Exchange. It has provided me a way to connect, learn, and contribute. I am committed to representing you and your issues at the national level and encourage any member or chapter to reach out to me directly with issues or concerns. Together, we can make a difference and create a stronger, more resilient community of architects.
The latest climate data tells us that merely reducing carbon emissions is not enough. To make the biggest impact, we must all commit to net zero emissions by 2030. And since the built environment creates a staggering 40% of the world’s emissions, architects, engineers, and owners play a key role. The AIA 2030 Commitment is an actionable climate strategy that gives us a set of standards and goals for reaching net zero emissions in the built environment.
To date, more than 1,200 firms have committed. Participants report the performance of their firm portfolios over each calendar year. The data, collected via the 2030 Design Data Exchange (DDx), includes building type, area, baseline energy performance, and predicted energy performance.
As of this writing, six years, and seven and a half months (about 2,420 days) remain on the “game clock”. More importantly, there is time on the clock. The game is not yet over. And there has been some good progress.
In 2021, 417 firms reported 20,653 projects with an average pEUI reduction of 50.3% for whole building projects and 32.5% pLPD reduction for interior only. See their progress in the latest annual report.
The Virginia firms that are committed to meeting the challenge are listed below. We celebrate and we cheer for them. May their example encourage others to join the fight. All of us need to help grow the roster and contribute.
Antu Design Group Arnold Design Studio Bala Consulting Engineers Clark Nexsen CMTA, Inc. Cooper Carry, Inc. Dewberry Architects Inc. Emcee Design GHT Limited Greenspur Grimm and Parker Hanbury Evans Wright Vlattas + Company HDR HGA Architects and Engineers HKS Hughes Group Architects IBI Group Jacobs Kahler Slater Ki Design Workshop PLLC KTGY Group, Inc. Little Diversified Architectural Consulting Lord Aeck Sargent Maginniss + del Ninno Architects, PC Moseley Architects Olshesky Design Group LLC PARABOLA POPULOUS Powers Brown Architecture Tektura Studio Vanderweil Engineers VIA Design Architects, P.C. VMDO Architects William McDonough and Partners
A committee of esteemed architects chaired by Ray Calabro, FAIA, will judge the entries for AIA Virginia’s 2023 Awards for Excellence in Architecture. Joining Calabro on the jury are Jennifer Devlin-Herbert, FAIA; Omar Gandhi, FRAAC; and Karen Lu, AIA. These annual awardsrecognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The awards program is currently open for submissions. Each entry will be judged on how successful the project is in meeting its individual requirements. Consideration is given to aesthetics, social impact, innovation, context, performance, and stewardship of the natural environment — with particular emphasis on the Framework for Design Excellence. Deadline for entries is5 p.m. on June 28, 2023.
About Ray Calabro, FAIA
Calabro is a principal of the Pennsylvania firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. Educated at Virginia Tech (B. Arch., 1994), he began his career there as a lecturer in the College of Architecture and Urban Studies. Since joining Bohlin Cywinski Jackson in 1995, Ray’s project experience spans academic, cultural, commercial and residential projects in the continental U.S. and Canada. In 2014, he was elevated to the College of Fellows.
About Jennifer Devlin-Herbert, FAIA
Devlin-Herbert, of San Francisco’s EHDD, was the firm’s first woman partner, and is now its first woman CEO. She is a distinguished design leader for evolving trends in learning environments across multiple project types, from educational spaces to science centers and libraries. Throughout a career spanning 30 years, her rich portfolio includes projects that reflect an unwavering commitment to her clients. Her work has been recognized with a National AIA Honor Award for Design.
About Omar Gandhi, FRAAC
Gandhi is the Principal of Omar Gandhi Architects, a Canadian architectural practice with small teams in both Halifax and Toronto. He was chosen as one of the Architectural League of New York’s ‘Emerging Voices’ of 2016 and in 2018 was appointed the Louis I. Kahn Visiting Assistant Professorship in Architectural Design at the Yale School of Architecture. Gandhi was made a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Association of Canada in 2022.
About Karen Lu, AIA, NOMA
Lu is an Associate Principal at Snow Kreilich Architects in Minneapolis. Her commitment to design excellence and to positively impacting future generations of architecture professionals and global citizens is evident in her professional work and service to the AIA and her community. She is currently the AIA Strategic Council Minnesota Representative and a board adviser to MSP NOMA.
The AIA Virginia PAC is one of the sharpest tools in our advocacy toolkit. The AIA Virginia PAC Award celebrates the engagement and commitment of a local AIA component that supports the advancement and mission of the PAC. The Award is presented at Architecture Exchange East. AIA Central Virginia currently holds the trophy.
Points are accrued in three areas: local component Board participation, the percentage of local component’s membership who have invested in the PAC, and the total amount of money invested by the members of the local component. The winning component goes home with $1,000 cash for Architecture Week/Month and the award trophy.
Points are allocated as follows:
Local component Board participation a. Did 100% of the Board of Directors invest in the AIA Virginia PAC? i. Yes = 20 points ii. No = 0 points
Percentage of local component members who have invested in the AIA Virginia PAC i. Component with highest % = 40 points ii. Component with second highest % = 20 points iii. Component with third highest % = 10 points
Average investment per member from the total local component membership i. Component with highest average investment/member = 40 points ii. Component with second highest average investment/member = 30 points iii. Component with third highest average investment/member = 20 points iv. Component with fourth highest average investment/member = 10 points v. Component with fifth highest average investment/member = 0 points
Scoring will be closed on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. EST.
