yafCON is pleased to announce the panelists for the 2019 micro-conference at Architecture Exchange East. This year’s theme isThe Architect of the New Era: critical issues of the 21st century designer. The program is free with your ArchEx registration or you can simply register to attend the [yaf]CON micro-conference on Friday, Nov. 8 from 1:30-5 p.m.
The panel features four distinguished emerging professionals with experience within at least one these focus areas: socially-sensitive design, emerging technologies and data in design, sustainability and environmentally-conscious design, and equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Sydney Covey Sustainable Solutions Manager, Structr Advisors, Virginia Beach
“Our industry plays a critical role in climate change and sea level rise. We have to shape our perspective to begin to think about how the building impacts both the occupant and the environment.”
Yiselle Santos Rivera Director of Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, HKS, Inc., Washington, DC
“We are the ones that ignite the fire. When we show there’s value in pursuing equity, diversity, and inclusion, we make sure that everyone is engaged in the conversation and accountable, there is no space for failure.”
Edward Becker Professor of Architecture, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg
“Faced with the pressing global challenges of rapid urbanization and human-induced climate change, we should focus on the development and implementation of low-carbon construction.”
Pascale Sablan Founder & Executive Director, Beyond the Built Environment, New York City
“We need to address the inequitable disparities in architecture by providing a holistic platform aimed to support numerous stages of the architecture pipeline.”
The yafCON team is looking to crowdsource questions for its engaging panel.
AIA Virginia is pleased to announce that Patricia Gruits with the non-profit firm MASS Design Group will be a keynote speaker at Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx). In keeping with the theme of re:culture, she’ll share her approach to working with communities as well as the story behind the firm’s culture during the ArchEx General Session on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019 in Richmond, Va.
About Patricia Gruits Patricia Gruits is a Director with MASS Design Group leading both design and research projects in health, education, and equity. Since joining MASS in 2013, she has led the design of the Maternity Waiting Village in Malawi with the Malawi Ministry of Health, a series of primary schools in East Africa with the African Wildlife Foundation and the M2 Foundation, and is currently leading the development of an assessment tool to measure the impact of design and infrastructure investments.
The redesign of Ruhehe Primary School offers the first proof of concept for design interventions piloted by MASS Design Group at Mubuga Primary School in 2015. Photo by Iwan Baan.
Prior to joining MASS, Patricia worked with Kennedy & Violich Architecture in Boston
and co-founded the global non-profit, Portable
Light, which provides a portable and sustainable source of power and
light to those in resource limited areas of the world.
Her work has been featured in journals of architecture and
design as well as on the BBC World News and the Discovery Channel. She has
lectured at SCAD, RISD, Kunstfack University, Tufts University and BuildBoston
and has taught design studios at Northeastern University and the Rhode Island
School of Design. Patricia received her Bachelor of Science and Master of
Architecture from the University of Michigan.
About MASS Design Group The Boston-based MASS Design Group is organized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit to create a model of practice optimized to deliver maximum impact to their partners and the communities they serve. They take on projects that are mission-aligned, that serve the public, and that their board of directors believes are worthy of consideration.
About Architecture Exchange East ArchEx is AIA Virginia’s annual conference and expo. This year, it takes place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from Nov. 6–8, 2019. The program is curated to bring together the brightest minds and most engaging speakers to explore the theme of culture.
Register for Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
Seminar and SAP Training Being Hosted During Resiliency Week
During the 2019 General Assembly,
AIA Virginia was proud to endorse Senate Joint Resolution 277 which designates
the first week of September as Resiliency Week.
For this inaugural occurrence, AIA Virginia will host two events: a
Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) seminar in collaboration
with the USGBC in Reston and a Safety Assessment Program Training in Richmond. Please consider joining us for one or both of
these events.
Sustainable Building through Commercial Property
Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) in Northern Virginia
Develop more efficient, more competitive, and more valuable
buildings with C-PACE financing for Existing Building retrofits and New
Construction projects! This Lunch & Learn will demonstrate the value
proposition from C-PACE to commercial real estate owners, developers, and
service providers. Plus, the event will summarize the addressable market for
C-PACE across the NOVA Region and provide the latest on progress toward C-PACE
in several jurisdictions. Interest in C-PACE across NOVA is growing; this is
one event you won’t want to miss!
Learning Objectives
List C-PACE
(Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing benefits to building
owners, developers, and service providers, and general eligibility requirements
for existing building and new construction projects.
Describe how C-PACE
financing impacts the economics and accessibility of energy efficiency,
renewable energy, water conservation, stormwater management, and resiliency
measures.
Discuss how to
integrate C-PACE into client discussions and project proposals to improve
building performance, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Describe the
addressable market for C-PACE in existing buildings and new construction across
NOVA today and one year out.
Agenda
11:30 a.m.: Lunch & networking
12:00-12:20 p.m. Panel 1: C-PACE Financing Value Proposition for Owners, Developers, and Service Providers
12:20-12:40 p.m. Panel 2: C-PACE Addressable Market in NOVA
12:40-1:00 p.m. Q&A & networking
Panelists
Panel 1: Scott Dicke, Sustainable Real Estate Solutions, Director of VA C-PACE Programs. Daron Coates, Thinkbox Group, Managing Director of Finding Opportunities
Panel 2: Rich Dooley, Arlington County, Arlington C-PACE Program Manager. Dennis Cumbie, Loudoun County, Loudoun C-PACE Program Manager. Bill Eger, City of Alexandria, Energy Manager
Location: DPR Construction 109 Sunset Hills Road Suite 200 Reston, Virginia 20190
Registration is open for Safety Assessment Training on Sept.
6, 2019, in Richmond. Post-disaster Safety-Assessment Program (SAP)
training provides architects, engineers, and building inspectors with the
knowledge to provide evaluations of facilities and buildings in the aftermath
of a disaster. Learn more.
At the end of this training, you will be able to:
Recognize the important role architects
and associated building professionals play in disaster preparedness, response,
and recovery.
Accurately conduct a post-disaster
rapid building assessment and complete appropriate damage assessment forms.
Demonstrate understanding of the
Applied Technology Council’s ATC-20 Post-earthquake Safety Evaluation of
Buildings and ATC 45 Safety Evaluation of Buildings after Windstorms and Floods
damage assessment procedures.
We’re seeking a limited number of individuals to serve as
volunteers at Architecture Exchange East 2019. In gratitude for your service, volunteers
are invited to attend ArchEx for free on the day(s) you help out.
We are looking for volunteers who are capable of completing
a number of different tasks throughout the conference. Volunteers are expected
to commit to a minimum of one full day in order to receive the complimentary
conference registration.
While we try to accommodate all requests, you’ll be assigned
to positions where we have the need. (You must fulfill your entire commitment
to receive complimentary conference registration.)
If you are interested, please complete the Volunteer Interest
Form. We’ll be in touch later to confirm the details of your
participation.
AIA Virginia is pleased to announce that Dwayne Oyler will
give a keynote address during the General Session at ArchEx on Nov. 7, 2019. Oyler
is a partner at the LA-based architecture firm Oyler Wu Collaborative, which he co-founded
with Jenny Wu. The
firm is widely recognized for its experimentation in design, material research,
and fabrication. He’ll share the firm’s approach to fostering a collaborative
and innovative culture – including the development of LACE, Wu’s 3D printed jewelry line.
About the Work
The firm was recognized with the prestigious Miller Prize
in 2017 to create The
Exchange, an installation at Eero Saarinen’s Irwin Conference
Center. The installation “fabricates a new
space within the site by completing the geometries implied by three
canopies, legacies of the Irwin Conference Center’s history as a drive-up bank.”
They’re also known for their design of 3D System’s Culinary Lab,
an experimental food lab in LA. The firm stripped the interior of a 1928 Neoclassical
bank down to its elements, and created a two-story glass food-printing room
outfitted with 3D food printers and a demonstration kitchen. The mezzanine is
wrapped in an intricately
woven guardrail of white linear steel elements and CNC milled wood panels.
In 2013, the firm designed The
Cube for the Beijing Biennale. The 52-foot
tall installation, constructed of painted steel and rope, is a
3-dimensional solid object bounded by six square faces. According to the firm, “the
aspiration of the installation is to achieve the transcendence of the first
dimension – the line – by simulating warping two-dimensional planes, which
penetrate and populate the object framework, to create the perception of
inhabitable three-dimensional space.”
Their experimentation
with lines and geometry is carried through in their design for Monarch a 16-story residential high rise
in Taipei, Taiwan. The
project employs a “strategy of ‘pixilated lines’ by applying a set of
exterior paneling in varying materials and differing geometries to run along
the façade of the building.”
About Dwayne Oyler
Oyler received his Bachelor of Architecture from Kansas State University and
Master of Architecture from Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Prior
to establishing Oyler Wu Collaborative, he worked for Toshiko Mori Architects
and collaborated with Lebbeus Woods on numerous projects including Nine Boxes,
Terrain, and Siteline Vienna. He has taught architecture studios at Syracuse
University, The Research Institute for Experimental Architecture, and The
Cooper Union. He teaches architecture design
studios at the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI_Arc) and is also a visiting professor at
Columbia GSAPP in New York.
About Oyler Wu Collaborative Oyler Wu Collaborative, based in Los Angeles, was founded in 2004. The firm has been recognized with numerous design awards, including the 2013 Emerging Talent Award from AIA California Council, 2012 Presidential Honor Award for Emerging Practice from AIA LA, and 2011 Emerging Voices Award from the Architectural League in New York. They also won the 2013 Design Vanguard Award from Architectural Record. The firm has published two books, including Pendulum Plane (2009) and Trilogy: SCI Arc Pavilions (2014).
About Architecture Exchange East ArchEx is AIA Virginia’s annual conference and expo. This year, it takes place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from Nov. 6–8, 2019. We’ll be bringing together the brightest minds and most engaging speakers to explore the theme of culture.
AIA Virginia is proud to announce that Pascale Sablan, AIA will be a 2019 Keynote Speaker at Architecture Exchange East. Pascale was named one of 25 Young Architects to Watch in 2019 by Architizer and recognized with the 2018 AIA Young Architects Award. She is an architect, mentor, intrapreneur and a passionate advocate for bringing visibility and voice to the issues concerning minority architects. She’ll share her insights and experiences at ArchEx on Thursday, Nov. 7 during the General Session. Registration for the conference opens on Sept. 4.
She’s a Senior Associate at S9ARCHITECTURE as well as the Founder and
Executive Director of Beyond the
Built Environment. Pascale is the 315th living African American female architect
in the United States to attain her architectural license. She was recently
appointed to AIA
New York’s Board of Directors and to the AIA National Strategic Planning
Committee to help develop the 2020-2024 strategic plan for the organization.
AIA Virginia is also pleased to collaborate with Pascale Sablan to bring SAY IT LOUD VIRGINIA to ArchEx 2019. The exhibition features projects by the diverse design professionals that contribute to Virginia’s rich built environment. The SAY IT LOUD series of exhibitions has been featured at A’18, South by Southwest, NOMA 2018 Unbounded, and the United Nations Visitors Center. In fact, the SAY IT LOUD – United Nations exhibition has been translated and displayed in Bujumbura, Geneva, Harare, Lagos, Lome, Nairobi, New Delhi, Minsk and Yaounde.
About Architecture Exchange East ArchEx is AIA Virginia’s annual conference and expo. This year, it takes place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from Nov. 6–8, 2019. We’ll be bringing together the brightest minds and most engaging speakers to explore the theme of culture.
About Pascale Sablan
Pascale Sablan, AIA, is a Senior Associate at S9ARCHITECTURE. With more than eleven
years of experience, she has been on the design team for a variety of mixed-use,
commercial, cultural, and residential projects in the U.S., Saudi Arabia,
India, Azerbaijan, Japan, and UAE.
She has been recognized for her contributions to the
industry with several awards, including the 2018 Pratt
Alumni Achievement Award, Emerging
New York Architect Merit Award and the NOMA Prize for Excellence in Design.
Pascale was featured in the Council of Tall Building & Urban Habitat
Research Paper, in the same company as Jeanne Gang and Zaha Hadid. She was
named Building
Design + Construction 40 Under 40 and was featured on the Cover of the
September 2017 issue of their magazine.
She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute and a Master of Science in
Advanced Architectural Design from the Columbia
University. Pascale has given lectures at Institutions, Universities and
Colleges all over the US; Schools such as Columbia University, Georgia
Technical College, Tuskegee University, Pratt Institute, Parsons The New
School, Madison Area Technical College and California Polytechnic State
University and Institution such as the National Museum of African American
Heritage & Culture and the United Nations Visitor Centre.
About Beyond the Built Environment
Beyond the Built
Environment, is uniquely positioned to address the inequitable disparities
in architecture by providing a holistic platform aimed to support numerous
stages of the architecture pipeline. Beyond the Built Environment, elevates the
identities and contributions of minority architects and designers through
exhibitions, curated lectures, and documentaries that testify to the provided value
of their built work and its spatial impact.
AIA Virginia is proud to offer a course that certifies attendees as Building Evaluators in the nationally recognized Safety Assessment Program (SAP) on Sept. 6, 2019, in Richmond, VA. The program is intended for licensed architects, engineers, or certified building inspectors. It utilizes volunteers and mutual aid resources to provide professional engineers, architects and certified building inspectors to assist local governments in safety evaluation of their built environment in an aftermath of a disaster.
SAP is the training standard of the AIA Disaster Assistance Program, which provides leadership, advocacy, and training to architects who are interested in volunteering their professional skills in times of crisis. This workshop will teach participants to conduct rapid damage assessments of structures affected by earthquakes, wind, and water. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to consistently and safely assess structures for habitability and will receive a nationally recognized Cal OES registration ID card from the state of California.
AIA Virginia is pleased to announce the jury members for the
2019 Design Awards program. The Design Awards program recognizes outstanding
design — both built and unbuilt — from the past eight years. Five categories
are considered by the jury: Architecture, Historic Preservation, Interior
Design, Contextual Design, and Residential Design.
The awards are expected to be announced in the fall and will be celebrated during Architecture Exchange East and at Visions for Architecture on Nov. 8, 2019.
Beha is Principal of Ann
Beha Architects, a Boston practice known for its exploration of heritage in
dialogue with contemporary design. She founded ABA to focus on preservation and
adaptive re-use, and has led ABA to honors for new design and construction and
planning, extending its reach nationally and internationally.
She has been Design Principal at the University of Chicago,
Princeton University, Cornell University Law School, Yale University, and MIT.
Her civic projects include the United States Embassy in Athens, Greece, and
projects at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History,
Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, and at the Newberry Library in Chicago.
Beha received a Master of Architecture from MIT, an undergraduate degree from Wellesley, was a Loeb Fellow at
the Graduate School of Design at
Harvard University, and Distinguished Visiting Professor of Design at
the City College of New York. She
is a member of Harvard University’s Design Advisory Council, received the 2018
Award of Honor from the Boston Society of Architects and the 2019 Honor Award
from the State Department’s Bureau of Overseas Building Operations Industry
Advisory Group.
Rodrigo Abela, ASLA, PLA, LEED AP BD+C Principal at Gustafson Guthrie
Rodrigo Abela is the principal in charge of GGN’s Washington, D.C. office and leads national
and international projects. His award-winning work is recognized for its
striking clarity in form, materials, and purpose.
Abela holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Cornell University and a Master
of Architecture and a Master of Landscape Architecture from the University of Virginia. His award
winning projects include the landscape at the National Museum of African
American History and Culture, CityCenterDC, and the winning design for the
National Mall Design Competition for Union Square.
Sara Caples AIA, LEED Principal at Caples Jefferson Architects, New York
Founder of New York architecture firm Caples Jefferson Architects with Everado
Jefferson, Sara Caples is committed to designing cultural, educational and
community facilities for neighborhoods underserved by the design professions.
She frequently lectures at schools, community, and professional events, and has
served as the Louis
I. Kahn Visiting Assistant Professor of Architecture at Yale School of Architecture;
Visiting Critic at University of Miami
and Syracuse University; and lecturer at
many more colleges and universities. Her passion for design is embodied in the
tenets of her firm: Architecture must communicate; Architecture must deal with
social issues & cultural context and Architecture must have formal
coherence. “We try to make each project very specific to what it is,” says
Caples. “That means that the aesthetic development of each project [differs],
and it also means, in a way, that each project is its own artistic statement.”
Anthony Pangaro has transformed the Boston skyline with his
building projects. An architect by trade and a former Loeb Fellow at Harvard University’s Graduate School of
Design, Pangaro’s career in development has included residences, downtown
development, and the comprehensive redevelopment of the historic Filene’s
department store in Downtown Crossing. He has served as the Manager of the
Southwest Corridor Transportation Redevelopment Project for Massachusetts,
advisor to the Government of Puerto Rico, and the New York State Urban
Development Corporation. His passions
for history, contemporary design, neighborhood revitalization, and service to
the community, have been the hallmark of his distinguished career.
James Elmasry, AIA, LEED AP Senior Program Planner, Yale University
As a Senior Program Planner for Yale University, Jim oversees many of Yale’s
largest projects, capitalizing on his passion and success in designing and
implementing creative solutions to complex problems. Representing multi-faceted
client groups, Elmasry’s expertise in programming and design has informed and
enabled remarkable outcomes for Yale and its stakeholders, as well as the
architects who he directs.
His projects reflect the extensive design and project
management experience he developed while working on dozens of award-winning
higher education, civic and performing arts projects along the East Coast
during his 26 years with Newman Architects.
Elmasry was a director of the Connecticut Building Congress and received
his Master of Architecture, Bachelor of Architecture and Bachelor of Studio
Arts Degrees from Tulane University.
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 (and now 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 financial management, communication and negotiation, advocacy and public service, and much more.
Want to be a member of this elite group of leaders? The application for the 2020 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 2019 the same five questions. Here are their inspiring answers.
Macy Anne Carman-Goeke
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
Macy Anne Carman-Goeke, AIAS
A: I recently had the chance to see the Pont Du Gard in person, and after all those years of studying it, it took my breath away to see it and appreciate the craftsmanship that brought such incredible engineering to life.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The All-Girls Filling Station’s Last Reunion by Fannie Flagg for a fun read, and The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History by Elizabeth Kolbert for a more sobering read.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: I had an early knack for puzzles, and discovered that I was more interested in designing a building for my future-career-of-the-day in childhood than the career itself. A dolphin training center, veterinary hospital, and horse barn were just a few of the things I designed. However my curiosity about all things led me down some other roads, and I came back to architecture as a career change after spending time in the environmental and community policy sector, and seeing first hand the way the built environment impacts human lives and the health of our planet.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: To spend time outside hiking, cycling, running, or camping with my husband, taking photographs, traveling to new places, listening to a fascinating podcast, or reading a good book.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: To never box yourself in- we build in a complicated and messy world. Everything is related to architecture and the more you know about it, the better the architect you will be.
Annesley Cole
Annesley Cole, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: Most recently, the Royal Danish Library (the Black Diamond) in Copenhagen. It was incredible to experience how something as traditional as a library could be a vibrant modern destination, constantly buzzing with activity – both from visitors and locals.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate (and – ongoing in the background – the Ballast ARE 5.0 book!)
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: I’ve always loved puzzles, and figuring out how to make things fit together. We moved a handful of times in my childhood, and each time my parents had the option of a move-in-ready house or one on the verge of collapsing. Needless to say, they always took on the challenge, and I spent many hours watching my mom (an author by trade) hand sketch over the architect’s blueprints to make each house work best for our family of 6. I loved seeing the way a building could shape how and where we spent our time, and continue to love the puzzle that is figuring out how a building will work best for the end user.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: At the end of a long day, I love to go down and sit on the beach with my husband (and our dog!) and just catch up and unwind.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Know that this field is a constant learning curve and that you will make mistakes (especially in the beginning!), and that is totally okay. Make friends with your coworkers, because work is a lot more fun when you have people to push through deadlines with, joke with, and collaborate with – not to mention someone who will answer your dumb questions. Also remember that acknowledgment of, credit to, and gratitude for others goes a long way. Everybody likes to know they are appreciated!
Ashley LeFew Falwell
Ashley LeFew Falwell, AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: Lately, I’ve loved opportunities for bird’s eye city views. In Paris, Sacre Coeur is glowing in the distance from many vantage points. Then once you’ve arrived, the perspective it provides is awe-inspiring.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The 12th book in the Gamache series by Louise Penny, A Great Reckoning. This is a mystery series, but I most enjoy Penny’s lovingly flawed protagonists, brilliant descriptions of art, and thoughtful reflections on human nature. And Book 13 features an architect!
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: My grandmother started teaching me to paint and draw when I was very young. Through her mentorship, I learned how to really slow down and see. I was equally drawn to all of the core subjects in school, but I craved subjectivity in response to an emphasis on memorization and testing. I found a counterpoint in art classes and enjoyed the intuition and embodied knowledge involved in making things. Through travel opportunities and over time, I became more and more interested in large-scale installation and the built environment. I see architecture as the fascinating intersection of many disciplines in physical form; it’s at once technical and empathetic.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Reading is high on the list. It’s even better when combined with the outdoors, a cat, or a cup of coffee. I also love knitting, walking, and meaningful conversations with my extraordinary family and friends.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: One of my professors always said, ‘It takes forty years to become an architect.’ At the time, I thought he was exaggerating. Once I began practicing in an office, his words rang true to me. Becoming an architect is a lifelong process. If you embrace a love of learning and a sense of curiosity, you will never lack for inspiration.
Ojima Glover
Ojima Glover, AIAS
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: The Research and Development Center at Virginia Tech. Reason being, I am currently working in the space and seeing how we can take the original design, and mold it to what Virginia Tech needs today. I have had the opportunity to talk to the building’s designers and see why they made certain design decisions. Having the opportunity to compliment the design is a wonderful learning experience for me and has reiterated for me that it is possible to work on an existing building without taking away a lot of its character.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The Warm of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson. This book highlights the migration of African-Americans from the south to the north.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: That is a funny story. I grew up wanting to go into law because I felt that was the best way to help people. I didn’t want to do Architecture for a long time because of the math involved and I didn’t know how involved with people one could be. My mom pushed for me to look into it because I loved creating things and she didn’t want me to let that go. So after doing a days worth of research about what Architects do, I was hooked and knew that this was the field I wanted to go into. (With a complementary degree in contractual law of course.)
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: I love to spend time with friends, read, and SLEEP!!
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Don’t come in with any preconceived notions of what you must do or know. Enjoy your time exploring architecture and have fun with your designs! Push the boundaries and see what can come out of it. Find what’s important to you in design and let it influence your design and the firms you choose to go for!
Karim Habbab
Karim Habbab, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: The Garage in Charlottesville, VA. It is a single car garage located on a side street across from Market Street Park. Every once in a while the garage door opens, people gather on a grassy hill across the street, and a band performs live music. It is a gem hidden in plain sight and a wonderful use of space.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Evicted by Matthew Desmond
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Growing up having architect parents instilled in me the importance of design excellence at a young age. I was privileged to have accompanied them to job sites as a child. It was when I saw their sketches become reality that I decided to pursue architecture as a career.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Reconnect with nature and get some fresh air. I currently live near the blue ridge mountains, so I usually hop on over to Shenandoah national park and go on a quick hike.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: You will excel if you are passionate about your work. I challenge you to wear many hats when analyzing your work and never be afraid to go back to the drawing board.
Kelley Holmes
Kelley Holmes, AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: I recently visited Paisley Park – the home, music studio, and playground of one of my music idols, Prince Rogers Nelson. The 65,000 square foot multi-purpose facility, constructed in 1987, blew me away in regards to its overall scale. Though many parts of it still felt of the 1980s/1990s era of postmodern architecture, it was an amazing and emotional experience to be in the same spaces where much of Prince’s music was recorded and where two of his films and many music videos were created. The 1500-person sound stage was by far the most jaw-dropping space, but I found myself especially intrigued with seeing samples of his handwriting on display.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The Hike: A Novel by Drew Magary. Filled with extraordinary characters, this fantasy saga is an exciting read with lots of twists and turns. The novel follows a suburban family man in an epic quest of life-or-death proportions. The essential lessons of the author’s overall narrative are to 1. keep moving forward in your journey and 2. practice the art of empathy by truly understanding what it is like to be in another person’s shoes.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Like many young children, I was enamored with Legos, Lincoln Logs, and building forts in the woods. However, it was in 6th grade (’95-’96) when my father purchased a new desktop computer that came with several free programs, one of which was a very basic 3D modeling program. For me, this instantly sparked a deep interest in design, encouraging me to seek out additional programs and shadowing opportunities to explore, as well as encouraging me to include classes like drafting, art, and advanced math courses into my curriculum during middle school and high school.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Being in nature, especially near water is my preferred way to relax. But, when that option is not available, I enjoy singing along to music and listening to podcasts.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
Maintain a love for curiosity and
exploration, as well as learn to ask the ‘right’ questions that will result in
a thoughtful and informative response – whether it be in a job interview or
during client meetings.
Sydney Huibregtse
Sydney Huibregtse, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: Midtown Center by SHoP Architects at 15th and I in DC. Utilizing bridges to connect the two sides make for a unique and fun feature, especially for DC.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: My mother is a graphic designer and my dad was in the construction field. Once I got old enough to understand what they did for a living, I realized my passion for wanting to design. I knew architecture was the path I wanted to take when I took a summer architecture course in high school at Cornell.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Running or paddle board
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Set goals and break boundaries. Enjoy what you do and don’t let anyone dim your light.
Breanna LaTondre
Breanna LaTondre, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: Biscuitville in Danville, Virginia. It is the most charming, little yellow shack in the middle of the city. I’m absolutely obsessed.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The Color of Law: Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: I’ve always loved bridges, for as long as I can remember. For a while, I actually thought I wanted to be a civil engineer, but in high school, I came across the work of Santiago Calatrava. His work just absolutely changed everything I thought I knew about architecture. I thought I could design both bridges and buildings. But now, I understand my love for bridges is really driven by my love for the expression of structure, no matter what I’m designing.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Try everything. Having just graduated a year ago, I see how we can put so much pressure on ourselves to land the best job right out of school, and I have to love what I’m doing every day or I’ve failed. But that’s just not the case. You’ve got to start somewhere, taking on roles in your firm that maybe weren’t in your job description, or taking on a responsibility that you might never have done before, but it’ll stretch you to grow so much faster. Slowly figure out your strengths and weaknesses in order to shape your career for the long haul.
Divya Nautiyal
Divya Nautiyal, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: Pruitt Igoe – mostly negative, but a reminder that architecture does not exist in a vacuum. Public policy, environmental & social psychology are not separate from architecture.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Design Like You Give a Damn by Cameron Sinclair and Beyond Shelter – Architecture and Human Dignity, by Alfredo Brillembourg, Hubert Klumpner, Patrick Coulombel, Teddy Cruz, Deborah Gans, Victoria Harris, John Norton, Sergio Palleroni, Anita van Breda, Sandra D’Urzo, Marie Aquilino.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Totally by accident but when I realized architecture had the capability to address social issues is when it truly became a passion for me.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Napping, sketching and cooking, in that order.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: To develop a discerning eye for everything around you.
Ryan Oldach
Ryan Oldach, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: Not so much a single building, but an entire district – The Art Deco Historic District in the South Beach neighborhood of Miami Beach felt like taking a step back in time. The colorful, retro, and iconic structures reminded me of how architecture from different eras can still be appreciated for their uniqueness and groundbreaking styles.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: What the Health by Eunice Wong with Kip Anderson & Keegan Kuhn
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: I have always gravitated towards the creative realm of hobbies including drawing, music, and building with Legos from a very young age. When I no longer wanted to build Lego sets per their step-by-step instructions and instead come up with my own designs, I think is when I realized I wanted to be a designer.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Give me enough sunscreen and water, you can find me soaking up the sun on the beach all day long with my favorite music at my side.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Do not be afraid to speak up and ask questions – there are individuals in our profession with an immense amount of knowledge that are willing to share. All too often I found myself being too timid to ask the question of “Why?” within architecture but once I really grasped the idea that our professors, mentors, and colleagues were there to help, it opened a new world. The best advice I was ever given was by an architect with much more experience than I: “Wisdom comes from experience, and experience comes from a lack of wisdom.”
Jeff Rynes
Jeff Rynes, AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: Palladio’s Villa Rotunda
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Lectures on Architecture Vol. 2 by Viollet-Le-Duc.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Playing with Legos and drawing when I was 5
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Spend time with friends and family
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Follow your passion, make the world a better place, and have fun!
Kelsey Sinichko
Kelsey Sinichko, AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently-either positive or negative?
A: The White House.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Building forts in the woods behind my house growing up
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Sunday morning ritual of coffee, piano, and easy crossword puzzles
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Surround yourself with people excited about what they do; be one of them
Ianta Summers
Ianta Summers, AIAS
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: At Fort Monroe, I am working with the National Park Service interpreting a museum house from civil war times. It is important to me that everyone’s story is told correctly so there is a lot of emotion put into my efforts.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Dear America, The Diary of a Freed Black Girl
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: On accident! I never knew this profession was something I wanted to do until I came to school and tried it out. I love how I was able to stay creative and precise at the same time.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: I love sitting by the beach. Sadly, I always have something running through my mind and never feel truly relaxed though.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: To my aspiring architects: do your homework, never stop sketching, and keep up with architectural news!! I see you’re already doing that and it’s appreciated this time 🙂
Zakiya Toney
Zakiya Toney, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: I was recently on a trip to Philadelphia and the Philadelphia City Hall building brought me to a standstill. The incredible grandeur of older masonry buildings – specifically those of more ornate architectural styles – will always be awe-inspiring to me.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: The last book that I read was the Site Planning and Design Handbook because I am currently studying for the Architect Registration Exams. (3 down, 3 to go!) I also started reading Becoming by former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: I came across architecture as part of a career research project in high school, but I discovered my passion for architecture at NC State College of Design’s Design Camp in 2010. After being a camper, I applied to NC State for undergrad that fall (c/o 2015) and later returned to the camp as a Counselor and Teaching Assistant.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: My favorite way to relax is by listening to music (since taking a private jet on a quick overseas vacation is currently not a financially feasible option). It is the quickest way to calm down, ground myself and refocus.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Remember your “why.” No matter what the first projects that you are given may be, remember what got you into the profession and stay inspired. Hold on to the principles of design and principles of architecture that align with your purpose.
Jeanne Vick
Jeanne Vick, AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: I’ve never been a huge fan of Antoni Gaudi’s work, and even when standing in front of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona a few summers ago, I wasn’t “wowed.” I could appreciate the intricacy of the sculptures and was amazed by the sheer scale of the building, but it wasn’t until I stepped inside that my entire perception of his work changed. It was truly magnificent. Pictures don’t do it justice. You must see it in person.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Growing up in North Carolina, my parents took me to visit Biltmore in Asheville one summer. I was around ten or eleven and already had a passion for art and drawing. I left that house in complete awe and my desire to be an architect was born.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: Sit on a back porch with a drink and someone I love, or joyrides out into the countryside with my husband in his convertible.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Surround yourself with people that are better than you and don’t be intimated by it. They will keep you on your toes and will encourage you to reach your highest potential.
Alex Zondlo
Alex Zondlo, Assoc. AIA
Q: What building evoked a strong reaction from you recently—either positive or negative?
A: Notre Dame Cathedral because of the worldwide response in the wake of the fire.
Q: What is the last book you read?
A: Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t
Q: How did you discover your passion for architecture?
A: Through Legos (way too many Legos) and a high school teacher who taught drafting classes.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do to relax?
A: I enjoy being outside, whether camping, hiking, or walking around DC. and also reading.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring architects?
A: Go shadow a firm and see what it is like to be an architect. If possible, participate in an experiences program during high school.
Aren’t building tours the best? You get an insider’s
perspective on design decisions. You learn about construction processes, explore
different building typologies, and discover innovative solutions and
technologies. Best of all, you get to check out new work.
Walking tours and history tours are pretty great too. You uncover
the rich history of communities and landmarks. You take a peek behind the
scenes — sometimes you even learn a few secrets. And, who doesn’t love a juicy architecture
secret?
Tours are usually the first sessions to sell out at ArchEx. Our
attendees love ‘em. If you’ve got a new project you want to show off or if you’re
a great tour guide, please submit your tour proposal below. We recommend that
the tour destination be no more than about 30 minutes away from downtown
Richmond.
About Architecture Exchange East ArchEx is AIA Virginia’s annual conference and expo. This year, it takes place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from Nov. 6–8, 2019. We’ll be bringing together the brightest minds and most engaging speakers to explore the theme of culture.
Submit your tour proposal below. [Deadline June 28, 2019]
