Author: Jon Bell

West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness

Posted on by Jon Bell

Event Recap: Disaster Preparedness

Preparing Our Firms and Communities

AIA Colorado West Virtual Connect (Virtual Event) | April 21, 2026

The first West Virtual Connect session of 2026 brought together architects and industry leaders from across Colorado’s western region to focus on a topic that is becoming increasingly central to practice: disaster preparedness. With wildfire risk intensifying, flood events recurring, and climate-driven disruptions reshaping both policy and practice, the conversation centered on how architects and firms can prepare not just buildings, but themselves, their systems, and their communities, for moments of crisis.

Moderated by Molly Wheelock, Assoc. AIA, Studio MW, and Andi Korber, AIA, Land+Shelter, the session featured perspectives from AIA Colorado, AIA National, and Scott Rodwin, AIA, Rodwin Architects, each offering a distinct lens on preparedness “before, during, and after” disaster events.

Before:

Building Capacity Before Crisis

Nick Remus, AIA, Advocacy Engagement Director, AIA Colorado, opened with reflections from the “After the Flames” conference, where the architecture profession was notably underrepresented but increasingly essential. The conference reinforced a key theme: architects must be engaged in disaster ecosystems before events occur, not only after.

He also outlined ongoing state-level policy and preparedness efforts, including wildfire resiliency code implementation, legislative debates around delaying enforcement, and proposals for disaster mitigation funding mechanisms. While progress is underway, Nick emphasized that capacity gaps remain, particularly at the local government level, and that coordination between jurisdictions, agencies, and practitioners is still uneven.

Paola Capo, AIA National, expanded the conversation into firm preparedness, focusing on business continuity planning as an underutilized but critical tool for architecture firms. She emphasized that continuity planning is not just about emergency response, it is about protecting operations, maintaining client trust, and preserving firm stability during disruption.

She also highlighted the AIA’s Safety Assessment Program (SAP), which trains architects to assess building safety after disasters in coordination with emergency management agencies. These trained professionals play a key role in re-entry decisions, helping communities safely return to buildings while accelerating recovery timelines.

A central takeaway from this segment was that preparedness is not only technical, it’s relational. Firms that are embedded in local emergency management networks before disaster strikes are significantly better positioned to respond effectively.

During:

Capacity, Ethics, and the Reality of Response

Scott Rodwin, AIA, provided a grounded account of what disaster response looks like from a practicing firm’s perspective, drawing on his experience following the Marshall Fire. His firm received an overwhelming surge of inquiries, far exceeding their normal project capacity, and was forced to make deliberate decisions about how many clients they could realistically take on without compromising quality or ethics.

He described this as the “lifeboat problem”: the challenge of balancing urgency, compassion, and professional capacity in a moment when demand spikes dramatically and expectations are often unclear or unrealistic.

Rodwin emphasized that post-disaster clients are fundamentally different from typical clients. They are often in emotional crisis, displaced, and overwhelmed. In this context, architects become not just designers, but listeners, counselors, and stabilizers, helping people move from shock toward a sense of direction and possibility.

He also stressed the importance of setting realistic expectations early, particularly around cost, timelines, and construction capacity. One of the most common sources of conflict post-disaster, he noted, is misinformation about rebuild costs and timelines that cannot be met given real-world constraints in labor and materials.

After:

Systems, Policy, and the Architecture of Recovery

The session highlighted how recovery is shaped as much by systems as by individual effort. Scott shared insights from Boulder County’s Article 19 disaster permitting framework, which enabled expedited review processes and temporarily reallocated permitting staff to prioritize rebuilding efforts after the Marshall Fire.

Key innovations included:

  • Accelerated permitting timelines (weeks instead of months)
  • Simplified review pathways for rebuilding in place
  • Temporary suspension of certain discretionary review steps
  • Centralized guidance for homeowners through “rebuilding better” resources

These systemic adjustments demonstrated that recovery speed is often determined not by the absence of rules, but by the ability to adapt them temporarily in response to crisis.

Insurance challenges were another major theme. Scott described widespread underinsurance among homeowners and the critical role architects played in developing “as-was” documentation, detailed cost and scope analyses aligned with insurance frameworks. In many cases, these documents became essential tools in negotiations, significantly affecting settlement outcomes and recovery capacity for homeowners.

Key Themes

Across all presentations and discussion, several themes emerged:

  • Preparedness is operational, not theoretical — Firms must define how they function under disruption, not just how buildings perform.
  • Relationships are infrastructure — Trust between architects, agencies, and communities is foundational to effective response.
  • Capacity is a constraint, not willingness — Ethical limits and system bottlenecks shape what firms can realistically do in crisis.
  • Recovery is systemic — Speed and equity in rebuilding depend on permitting systems, funding mechanisms, and coordinated governance.
  • Architects play expanded roles in disaster contexts — From designers to translators, advocates, assessors, and stabilizers.

Closing Reflection

The session underscored a growing reality for the profession: disaster preparedness is no longer a specialized topic, it is becoming a core competency of architectural practice in the western United States.

As climate-driven events become more frequent and more complex, the ability of firms and communities to prepare, respond, and recover will depend less on any single solution and more on the strength of their systems, relationships, and readiness to operate under pressure.

The conversation closed with a shared recognition that preparedness begins long before disaster strikes, and that architects have a critical role to play in shaping not just resilient buildings, but resilient communities.

Additional Resources

Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code

Architects’ Guide to Business Continuity

Disaster Assistance Handbook

Post-disaster assessment training:

Marshall Fire Recovery Dashboard for Destroyed Residential Properties

Rebuilding Better, a toolkit for those households faced with rebuilding after the 2021 Marshall Fire.

About

West Virtual Connect

Members west of the Front Range convene quarterly in a virtual setting to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping practice in the region.

In 2026, the West Section Advisors are hosting a series of open roundtables, welcoming all members in the West to join and contribute.

RSVP for events at AIA Colorado’s event page.

EVENTS

Colorado Architecture News | 04.15.26

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

04.15.26

In this Newsletter:

  • 2026 Resiliency Fair
  • 2026 Design Award Jury announced
  • Apr 16: CRAN happy hour
  • Apr 21: West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness
  • Apr 22: From Shop to Site: Precast Factory Tour in Colorado Springs
  • Apr 23: Tour of The Mothership
  • Apr 28: Equity in Practice Series: Session 1
  • Apr 29: Design + Honor Awards info session
  • May 13: Housing Matters: Winning Ideas for Policy Impact
  • Premier Partner spotlight: IMEG

AIA COLORADO’S

NEWS

2026 Resiliency Fair

As climate change reshapes Colorado’s water systems and increases wildfire risk, resilient design requires deeper collaboration between architects and landscape architects. The AIA Colorado and ASLA Colorado/Wyoming Resiliency Fair brings members together to explore integrated strategies for drought and wildfire response.

Join us Friday, May 15th, from 2 – 5pm, at the Alliance Center for a program featuring a keynote from Colorado Resiliency Office Director Anne Miller, AICP, who will share updates on the state’s resiliency framework, including its 5-year update and the role of resiliency hubs in strengthening communities. Attendees will engage in small-group discussions with experts on topics like the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code and local policy approaches, followed by a panel on how design professionals can better align resilience strategies with client needs. 

Registration is required and limited to 30 AIA members. Event is $25 for AIA members, $40 non-member rate, and $10 for students. Submitted for 2 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.

Meet the 2026 Design Awards Jury

A nationally recognized jury will convene in Denver this July to review your submissions:

  • Eddie Jones, FAIA — Founder, Jones Studio, Inc.
  • Chandra Robinson — Founder, Chromatográfica
  • Ken Wilson, FAIA, FIIDA, FASID, LEED Fellow — Design Principal, Perkins&Will

Learn more about this year’s jury here.

Get Started

Explore award categories, eligibility, submission guidelines, and view award-winning submissions to craft a strong design award submission here.

Be recognized for the difference you’re making in the architecture profession and your community. There is no cost to submit for the Honor Awards and info is available here.

AIA COLORADO’S

EVENTS

Apr 16 • CRAN Happy Hour

Thursday, April 16th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Knowledge Community for a happy hour, in Boulder, on the rooftop of Avanti Food & Beverage. RSVP here.

Apr 21 • West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness

Tuesday, April 21st, at Noon, join fellow Western Slope members for a discussion on preparedness, response, and recovery. Hear insights from colleagues and learn practical strategies to strengthen and support community resilience. RSVP here.

April 22 • From Shop to Site: Precast Factory Tour

Wednesday, April 22nd, at 4:30pm, join AIA Colorado South members for a behind-the-scenes factory tour in Colorado Springs connected to an active project. This experience offers a unique opportunity to follow the lifecycle of precast concrete from fabrication to installation, with a direct tie to the ongoing Palmer High School project by RTA Architects and Perkins Eastman. Attendees will see select panels currently in production and gain insight into how design decisions translate into built components. RSVP here.

Apr 23 • Tour of The Mothership

Thursday, April 23rd, at 4pm, join members for a tour of The Mothership, a 2025 AIA Colorado Design Award Honorable Mention recipient. The unique nature of The Mothership cannot be overstated; there is simply nothing like it in the ecosystem of housing and homeless services for youth, offering an opportunity to immediately access shelter and transition as quickly as possible into one of six dorm-style neighborhood suites. Tour led by Chad Holtzinger, AIA, of Shopworks Architecture. To be submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 28 • Equity in Practice Series: Intercultural Competence, Workplace Culture, Compensation

Designing great architecture starts long before anyone picks up a pen, mouse, or trace paper, it starts with people! Tuesday, April 28th, at Noon, in the first session of AIA Colorado’s three-part Equity in Practice Series, AIA Colorado’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) committee invites you to dive into Chapters 1–3 of the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice but don’t worry, this isn’t a book club where you pretend you did the reading. We’ll break it down into foundational ideas together. To be submitted for 1 LU. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 29 • Awards info session

The 2026 AIA Colorado Design + Honor Awards are officially open for submissions, with entries accepted now through June 26th at noon. This annual program celebrates the most outstanding work of AIA Colorado members, recognizing both exceptional design across project types and the individuals and teams making a lasting impact on the profession and their communities.

To support members in preparing strong submissions, the AIA Colorado Awards Committee and AIA Colorado staff will host an upcoming virtual information session on Wednesday, April 29th at noon. This session will provide an overview of the Design and Honor Awards programs, walk through the Submittable platform, and offer practical guidance for first-time applicants and experienced submitters alike. Attendees will also hear directly from architects at BOSS.architecture, four-time 2025 Design Award winners, as they share insights into their successful approach.

Whether you are ready to submit or just beginning to explore the process, this is a valuable opportunity to gain clarity, ask questions, and strengthen your entry ahead of the June deadline. RSVP here.

May 13 • Housing Matters: Winning Ideas for Policy Impact

What’s the real impact of a design competition? Wednesday, May 13th, from 4:30 – 6pm, join AIA Colorado’s Regional and Urban Housing Design Committee for a conversation that moves beyond ideas into policy and real-world change. Featuring the top three winners of the Denver Affordable Housing Challenge, this event explores how design competitions elevate new voices and influence the future of our cities. Hear from Australian architect Damian Madigan, Denver-based teams behind ReFrame and Alley Town La Alma, and the City and County of Denver on how these ideas connect to the Unlocking Housing Choices initiative. Hosted at OZ Architecture, in Denver, be part of the conversation shaping the future of housing in Denver. RSVP here.

RSVP to AIA Colorado Events

NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE

COMMUNITY

Colorado Springs Fire Department quarterly meetings with architects

The Colorado Springs Fire Department would like to extend an invitation to local architects to attend a quarterly meeting for collaboration and discussion of pertinent topics. If you have specific topics that you would like to discuss, please email them to Senior Fire Inspector Jacob Watson at Jacob.Watson@coloradosprings.gov at least two days before the meeting. The next meeting will be Friday, April 24th, from 9 – 11am, at the Fire Construction Services conference room at 2880 International Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80910.

CAP Spring Lecture Series

All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO. View the full Spring schedule here.

CAREER CORNER

JOB BOARD UPDATES

AIA Colorado Job Board

Looking for your next career move? Explore fresh job listings updated daily. Hiring? Showcase your open position for 30 days and connect with top-tier talent. 

Featured listings:

AIA Colorado Job Board

NEWA FROM

AIA NATIONAL

AIA26 registration is now open

Join us in San Diego, June 10–13, for four days of immersive learning, inspiring keynotes, architect-led tours, networking events, and the industry’s largest expo. Save hundreds with early registration rates now through April 10! Register here.

Thursday, June 11th, join us for Colorado Night and enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni during the AIA26. RSVP here.

AIA COLORADO’S

PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

With a history that dates back over 100 years, IMEG Corp. grew from several firms coming together under one uniting vision: people-centered engineering. As a national engineering and design consulting company IMEG intentionally localized a focus to serve carefully chosen regions and markets, allowing them to put relationships and communities first, without sacrificing expertise. 

IMEG’s specialties are high-performing building systems, infrastructure, program management and construction-related services, but the secret to the success is found in a deep bench of 1,600 team members. For IMEG, people-centered engineering is about more than the people served — it’s representative of the engaged employee culture they’ve worked hard to create. IMEG believes in investing in their people and their professional futures through continuous training, community involvement and the ability to develop a niche specialty.

See IMEG’s AIA Continuing Education Courses

View IMEG company website

AIA COLORADO’S

ALLIED MEMBERS

Find the Right Expertise

Our Allied Members bring depth and diversity to Colorado’s design and construction community. These experienced professionals offer specialized knowledge that complements architectural practice and elevates project outcomes statewide.

Become an Allied member

Helpful Links:

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

  • Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

  • 2026 Awards Celebration: 
    • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
    • Thursday, September 17
  • 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
    • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
    • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

Volunteer Opportunities:

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

2026 Design Award Jury

Posted on by Jon Bell

Celebrating the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

The AIA Colorado Design Awards honor the most outstanding work of AIA Colorado members and their firms, reinforce the value of great architecture, and highlight members’ positive contributions to the community.

The 2026 Design + Honor Awards submission window closes Friday, June 26th, at Noon.

Submit for a 2026 award

Meet the 2026

Design Award Jury

The jury will gather this July, in Denver, bringing national expertise to review the inspiring projects submitted by AIA Colorado members.

Founder, Principal Jones Studio Inc

Eddie Jones, FAIA

Edward (Eddie) Jones, with his business partner and brother Neal, were raised in the oil fields of Oklahoma. From a very early age the two bothers aspired to be architects and share a studio.

Eddie was born in Texas in 1949 and moved to the beautiful Sonoron desert in 1973 after graduating from Oklahoma State University. He founded Jones Studio, Inc. on June 8, 1979 weeks before his 30th birthday. It was not until years later, he realized he had begun his professional career on the birthday of his two major heroes… Frank Lloyd Wright and Bruce Goff. The planets had aligned!

For the past 46 years the Jones Studio family has grown to include 22 highly motivated and enthusiastic individuals. They enjoy an unusually broad list of building types ranging from a “2 holer” outhouse trailhead located on a remote desert site to the 54-acre Mariposa Land Port of Entry in Nogales, Arizona – the third busiest land port in the United States. The list includes museums, research facilities, performing arts centers, golf club houses, an NFL training facility, town halls, softball-soccer stadiums, and an entire college campus.

Having been honored with over 250 design awards, the studio was exceptionally recognized during the summer months of 2006 when they were asked to be an exhibit in the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. To the best of anyone’s knowledge it was a precedent setting first time example of an architectural exhibit involving the relocation of the whole firm to a museum gallery. They were the exhibit… fully functioning, on public display for 4 months!

Eddie has the privilege of lecturing frequently around the United States and abroad. His love for discussing architecture is represented by an impressive list of Conference commitments, lectures, exhibits, and podcasts.

Founder, chromatográfica

Chandra Robinson

Chandra is a licensed architect in Oregon with 20 years of practice dedicated to creating beautiful, welcoming spaces that are accessible to everyone. Her design philosophy is rooted in a deep commitment to community engagement and the authentic expression of culture in the built environment, working closely with clients to translate their unique vision and values into tangible design elements.

A recognized expert in her field, Chandra is a trusted voice in mass timber building technology and the integration of cultural narratives into design. Her ability to challenge the status quo and advocate for communities has led to significant professional recognition, including being honored by Architectural Record as one of the 2025 Top Women in Architecture for her significant contributions to design innovation.

Chandra’s portfolio showcases her commitment to innovative and culturally resonant design.

Beyond her practice, Chandra is a dedicated civic leader, serving on the Portland Design Commission since 2019 and as the 2026 Vice President of the Oregon Black Pioneers. Her intellectual foundation is informed by her focus on Soft Space—the experiential, temporal, and imagined qualities of environment that define spaces. Qualities like temperature, color, energy, and sightlines continue to be central elements of experimentation and exploration in her work today.

Design Principal, Perkins & Will

Ken Wilson, FAIA, FIIDA, FASID, LEED Fellow

Ken Wilson has a passion for creating sustainable living and working environments that optimize the health, wellbeing, and productivity of their inhabitants. His work includes a variety of project types in the areas of architecture, interiors, graphics, and product design, and his clients include some of the nation’s top socially responsible corporations, associations, nonprofits, law firms, and environmental organizations. Ken’s projects include headquarters offices for the American Society for Interior Designers (ASID), the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) which was the first project to achieve triple platinum certifications from LEED, WELL, and TRUE rating systems. Most recently he completed the first all-electric net-zero energy home within the city limits of Park City, Utah.

Ken’s projects have been published in eight different countries and have received over 140 national and local design awards. Ken was the founding principal of Envision, an architecture and design firm focused on human wellbeing and environmental responsibility which was acquired by Perkins&Will in 2012. Ken’s responsibilities at Perkins&Will have included serving as a Global Design Director and as a member of the firmwide Design Board and Executive Committee. Ken is the only architect to hold fellowships in the AIA, IIDA, ASID, and LEED.

Get Started on your

Award Submissions

Learn more about the 2026 Design Awards, the project categories, eligibility, submission instructions, and view past successful submissions here.

View the 2025 Honor Awards and submission instructions here.

The submission window for the 2026 Design + Honor Awards is now open and closes Friday, June 26th, at noon.

Start your submissions

Colorado Architecture News | 04.01.26

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

04.01.26

In this Newsletter:

  • Legislative Session Update
  • Apr 14: North Section EP/YA & AIAS happy hour
  • Apr 16: CRAN happy hour
  • Apr 21: West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness
  • Apr 22: From Shop to Site: Precast Factory Tour in Colorado Springs
  • Apr 23: Tour of The Mothership
  • Apr 28: Equity in Practice Series: Session 1
  • Apr 29: Design + Honor Awards info session
  • Premier Partner spotlight: IMEG

AIA COLORADO’S

NEWS

Legislative Session Update

It’s been an interesting year at the state capitol as legislators grapple with an extreme budget deficit while still trying to chip away at challenges such as housing and climate change. It’s been a very active year for housing bills in particular, with a common theme of the state venturing into land use policies typically handled at the city or county government level. AIA Colorado is pleased to share HB26-1001: Housing Developments on Qualifying Properties (or the HOME Act) has been signed into law, we’re currently supporting four bills, and taking an amend position on three additional bills. Catch up with Nikolaus Remus, AIA, AIA Colorado’s Advocacy Engagement Director, here.

AIA Colorado’s Fellows gathered last week at CU’s College of Architecture and Planning for a Spring luncheon celebrating leadership, design excellence, and the lasting impact of members who have advanced to Fellowship. The group enjoyed viewing Mike Winters, FAIA exhibition currently on display at the second-floor gallery.

Semple Brown Design’s project, Asteria Theatre at Colorado Mesa University, is setting a new regional standard for sustainability and technical excellence and was featured on a recent ByDesign episode. Watch the segment here.

Catch up on all Colorado projects that have been featured on the ByDesign tv show here!

AIA COLORADO’S

EVENTS

Apr 14 • North Section EP/YA & AIAS Happy Hour

Tuesday, April 14th, at 5pm, at Attic Bar & Bistro in Boulder, join AIA Colorado North members, the EP/YA Council, and AIAS for a happy hour designed to connect emerging professionals. RSVP here.

Apr 16 • CRAN Happy Hour

Thursday, April 16th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Knowledge Community for a happy hour, in Boulder, on the rooftop of Avanti Food & Beverage. RSVP here.

Apr 21 • West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness

Tuesday, April 21st, at Noon, join fellow Western Slope members for a discussion on preparedness, response, and recovery. Hear insights from colleagues and learn practical strategies to strengthen and support community resilience. RSVP here.

April 22 • From Shop to Site: Precast Factory Tour

Wednesday, April 22nd, at 4:30pm, join AIA Colorado South members for a behind-the-scenes factory tour in Colorado Springs connected to an active project. This experience offers a unique opportunity to follow the lifecycle of precast concrete from fabrication to installation, with a direct tie to the ongoing Palmer High School project by RTA Architects and Perkins Eastman. Attendees will see select panels currently in production and gain insight into how design decisions translate into built components. RSVP here.

Apr 23 • Tour of The Mothership

Thursday, April 23rd, at 4pm, join members for a tour of The Mothership, a 2025 AIA Colorado Design Award Honorable Mention recipient. The unique nature of The Mothership cannot be overstated; there is simply nothing like it in the ecosystem of housing and homeless services for youth, offering an opportunity to immediately access shelter and transition as quickly as possible into one of six dorm-style neighborhood suites. Tour led by Chad Holtzinger, AIA, of Shopworks Architecture. To be submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 28 • Equity in Practice Series: Intercultural Competence, Workplace Culture, Compensation

Designing great architecture starts long before anyone picks up a pen, mouse, or trace paper, it starts with people! Tuesday, April 28th, at Noon, in the first session of AIA Colorado’s three-part Equity in Practice Series, AIA Colorado’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) committee invites you to dive into Chapters 1–3 of the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice but don’t worry, this isn’t a book club where you pretend you did the reading. We’ll break it down into foundational ideas together. To be submitted for 1 LU. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 29 • Awards info session

The 2026 AIA Colorado Design + Honor Awards are officially open for submissions, with entries accepted now through June 26th at noon. This annual program celebrates the most outstanding work of AIA Colorado members, recognizing both exceptional design across project types and the individuals and teams making a lasting impact on the profession and their communities.

To support members in preparing strong submissions, the AIA Colorado Awards Committee and AIA Colorado staff will host an upcoming virtual information session on Wednesday, April 29th at noon. This session will provide an overview of the Design and Honor Awards programs, walk through the Submittable platform, and offer practical guidance for first-time applicants and experienced submitters alike. Attendees will also hear directly from architects at BOSS.architecture, four-time 2025 Design Award winners, as they share insights into their successful approach.

Whether you are ready to submit or just beginning to explore the process, this is a valuable opportunity to gain clarity, ask questions, and strengthen your entry ahead of the June deadline. RSVP here.

RSVP to AIA Colorado Events

AIA COLORADO

MEMBER NEWS

At CEC Early College in Denver, educator Margarita Gonzalez, Assoc. AIA, is helping address architecture’s gender and diversity gap by preparing students with real-world skills and a pathway into the profession. Her program is inspiring more young women and students of color to pursue careers in architecture and was recently featured on 9News.

NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE

COMMUNITY

CAP Spring Lecture Series

All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO. View the full Spring schedule here.

Community College of Denver Architectural Technology Practitioner-Student Event

April 3rd, from 9am to 1pm, join the Community College of Denver Architectural Technology for April Confluence, a unique practitioner–student event designed to connect architecture professionals with CCD architecture students through meaningful one-on-one mentorship. Between two AIA-approved LU/HSW CEU sessions, attending professionals will participate in informal micro-charrettes where students can seek guidance on their current studio projects, coursework, and career paths. This format creates intentional space for experienced practitioners to share insights, answer questions, and offer perspective that can help shape the next generation of architects. More info and RSVP here.

CAREER CORNER

JOB BOARD UPDATES

AIA Colorado Job Board

Looking for your next career move? Explore fresh job listings updated daily. Hiring? Showcase your open position for 30 days and connect with top-tier talent. 

Featured listings:

AIA Colorado Job Board

NEWA FROM

AIA NATIONAL

Call for Proposals: Women’s Leadership Summit 2026

Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS) brings together the architecture industry’s largest network of women for a premier leadership?experience.?We?seek?bold, engaging proposals?that inspire, educate, and support women at every career stage. Learn more and start your proposal here.

AIA26 registration is now open

Join us in San Diego, June 10–13, for four days of immersive learning, inspiring keynotes, architect-led tours, networking events, and the industry’s largest expo. Save hundreds with early registration rates now through April 10! Register here.

Thursday, June 11th, join us for Colorado Night and enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni during the AIA26. RSVP here.

AIA COLORADO’S

PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

With a history that dates back over 100 years, IMEG Corp. grew from several firms coming together under one uniting vision: people-centered engineering. As a national engineering and design consulting company IMEG intentionally localized a focus to serve carefully chosen regions and markets, allowing them to put relationships and communities first, without sacrificing expertise. 

IMEG’s specialties are high-performing building systems, infrastructure, program management and construction-related services, but the secret to the success is found in a deep bench of 1,600 team members. For IMEG, people-centered engineering is about more than the people served — it’s representative of the engaged employee culture they’ve worked hard to create. IMEG believes in investing in their people and their professional futures through continuous training, community involvement and the ability to develop a niche specialty.

See IMEG’s AIA Continuing Education Courses

View IMEG company website

AIA COLORADO’S

ALLIED MEMBERS

Find the Right Expertise

Our Allied Members bring depth and diversity to Colorado’s design and construction community. These experienced professionals offer specialized knowledge that complements architectural practice and elevates project outcomes statewide.

Become an Allied member

Helpful Links:

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

  • Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

  • 2026 Awards Celebration: 
    • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
    • Thursday, September 17
  • 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
    • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
    • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

Volunteer Opportunities:

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

2026 Legislative Session Update

Posted on by Jon Bell
March 31, 2026: Legislative Session Update

It’s been an interesting year at the state capitol as legislators grapple with an extreme budget deficit while still trying to chip away at challenges such as housing and climate change. It’s been a very active year for housing bills in particular, with a common theme of the state venturing into land use policies typically handled at the city or county government level.

AIA Colorado is excited to announce that HB26-1001: Housing Developments on Qualifying Properties (or the HOME Act) has just been signed into law! We supported this bill that will make it easier for mission-driven non-profit residential developers to get through project approval processes. This can be for land they own or when they partner with school districts, higher-ed campuses, and transit authorities. Housing projects that rely on affordability-related financing sources are especially vulnerable to cost increases resulting from delays.

We’re currently supporting four additional bills, including, HB26-1065: Transit and Housing Investment Zones, HB26-1066: Tax Exemptions Low Income Rental Property Development, SB26-049: Homeowner Natural Disaster Mitigation, and SB26-109: Building Code Accessibility. It’s slow going though as every single dollar the state might spend to implement a bill is being scrutinized.

AIA Colorado is also taking an amend position on three more bills. HB26-1236: Arbitration Reform may have unintended consequences affecting architects, but the bill sponsors are preparing amendments to address these issues.  HB26-1334: Modify Standards of Wildfire Resiliency Code Board seeks to delay implementation of the new wildland-urban interface wildfire code. We’re watching closely to ensure any delays are only for as long as necessary. SB26-102: Large-Load Data Centers puts many reasonable guardrails in place for new 30MW+ data centers but includes renewable energy requirements that may effectively prohibit any new data center development. We’re working closely with the bill sponsors (who are managing a very large group of stakeholders) to find a path to success.

It’s going to be a busy six final weeks of the legislative session this year. A lot of good bills may not make it to the finish line with limited funding available. As is often the case though, they can be brought back in a future session when our budget situation stabilizes.

Colorado Architecture News | 03.18.26

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

03.18.26

In this Newsletter:

  • Business of Architecture: Acquiring / Merging Your Business event recap
  • Architecture salary, hiring, & benefits trends
  • Apr 14: North Section EP/YA & AIAS happy hour
  • Apr 16: CRAN happy hour
  • Apr 21: West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness
  • Apr 23: Tour of The Mothership
  • Apr 28: Equity in Practice Series: Intercultural Competence, Workplace Culture, Compensation
  • Apr 29: Design + Honor Awards info session
  • Premier Partner news: AEF Traveling Scholarship submission deadline: March 31
  • Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

AIA COLORADO’S

NEWS

Business of Architecture: Acquiring / Merging Your Business event recap

Architecture firm mergers and acquisitions are becoming an increasingly common strategy for growth, succession planning, and expanding capabilities. At a recent Business of Architecture Knowledge Committee discussion, firm leaders shared candid insights into why they chose to merge, how valuation and due diligence work, and the critical role that culture plays in finding the right partner. From navigating the “middle-sized firm” challenge to preparing the next generation of leadership, the conversation offered practical lessons for firms of all sizes. Explore the stories, insights, and advice shared during this thoughtful discussion here.

Architecture salary, hiring, & benefits trends

The 2025 AIA Compensation & Benefits Report is the architecture industry’s most comprehensive report on salary, hiring, and benefits trends and the 2025 AIA Small Firm Compensation & Benefits Report shares the latest data on trends in pay practices, employee demographics, and benefits at small architecture firms. Both reports are available for discounted purchase to AIA members.

AIA Colorado has copies of the reports available for members to view at AIA Colorado’s offices at the Alliance Center. If you are an AIA member and you’d like to schedule a time to view the report, please inquire here.

AIA COLORADO’S

EVENTS

Apr 14 • North Section EP/YA & AIAS Happy Hour

Tuesday, April 14th, at 5pm, at Attic Bar & Bistro in Boulder, join AIA Colorado North members, the EP/YA Council, and AIAS for a happy hour designed to connect emerging professionals. RSVP here.

Apr 16 • CRAN Happy Hour

Thursday, April 16th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the AIA Colorado Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Knowledge Community for a happy hour, in Boulder, on the rooftop of Avanti Food & Beverage. RSVP here.

Apr 21 • West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness

Tuesday, April 21st, at Noon, join fellow Western Slope members for a discussion on preparedness, response, and recovery. Hear insights from colleagues and learn practical strategies to strengthen and support community resilience. RSVP here.

Apr 23 • Tour of The Mothership

Thursday, April 23rd, at 4pm, join members for a tour of The Mothership, a 2025 AIA Colorado Design Award Honorable Mention recipient. The unique nature of The Mothership cannot be overstated; there is simply nothing like it in the ecosystem of housing and homeless services for youth, offering an opportunity to immediately access shelter and transition as quickly as possible into one of six dorm-style neighborhood suites. Tour led by Chad Holtzinger, AIA, of Shopworks Architecture. To be submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 28 • Equity in Practice Series: Intercultural Competence, Workplace Culture, Compensation

Designing great architecture starts long before anyone picks up a pen, mouse, or trace paper, it starts with people! Tuesday, April 28th, at Noon, in the first session of AIA Colorado’s three-part Equity in Practice Series, AIA Colorado’s Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) committee invites you to dive into Chapters 1–3 of the AIA Guides for Equitable Practice but don’t worry, this isn’t a book club where you pretend you did the reading. We’ll break it down into foundational ideas together. To be submitted for 1 LU. More info and RSVP here.

Apr 29 • Awards info session

Are you thinking about creating an awards submission but have never gone through the process? Have a question regarding your submission you’d like to ask? Or, are you curious if there are any tips that could make your submissions stand out more? If so, April 29th, at Noon, join AIA Colorado’s awards committee, staff team, and members of the BOSS.architecture team for an overview of the Awards program, covering the Design Awards, the Honor Awards, and the Submittable platform. RSVP here.

RSVP to AIA Colorado Events

NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE

COMMUNITY

Hank Koning FAIA and Julie Eizenberg FAIA on Architect-ing

Hank Koning, FAIA, and Julie Eizenberg, FAIA, co-founders of Koning Eizenberg Architecture, join Adam Wagoner, AIA, live from the 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference in Keystone for an engaging and candid conversation on the “superpowers” architects can use to shape more human-centered, inclusive environments.

In this episode, Hank and Julie preview their conference talk, Superpowers, and unpack the strategies that have guided their practice for decades. The conversation moves from education projects to housing, using density and typology as tools to address real-world challenges while maintaining a strong commitment to humanism. They discuss how transparency, informality, and thoughtful user experience can make buildings more welcoming, especially for communities that often feel excluded from institutional spaces.

Watch the conversation on Youtube or listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Pandora or wherever you get podcasts!

CAP Spring Lecture Series

All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO. View the full Spring schedule here.

Community College of Denver Architectural Technology Practitioner-Student Event

April 3rd, from 9am to 1pm, join the Community College of Denver Architectural Technology for April Confluence, a unique practitioner–student event designed to connect architecture professionals with CCD architecture students through meaningful one-on-one mentorship. Between two AIA-approved LU/HSW CEU sessions, attending professionals will participate in informal micro-charrettes where students can seek guidance on their current studio projects, coursework, and career paths. This format creates intentional space for experienced practitioners to share insights, answer questions, and offer perspective that can help shape the next generation of architects. More info and RSVP here.

CAREER CORNER

JOB BOARD UPDATES

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Looking for your next career move? Explore fresh job listings updated daily. Hiring? Showcase your open position for 30 days and connect with top-tier talent.

Activity so far this year:

  • 34 new jobs posted
  • 6,045 job views
  • 507 applications submitted

Connecting architecture talent with opportunity at jobs.aiacolorado.org.

Don’t miss these featured opportunities:

AIA Colorado Job Board

NEWA FROM

AIA NATIONAL

The Architect’s Journey to Specification

New research shows architects are eager for greater influence in building product innovation. The newly released 2026 Architect’s Journey to Specification report explores how architects collaborate with manufacturers, adopt new product innovations, and integrate sustainability into specification decisions amid ongoing market and technology shifts. The study provides updated insight into where architects seek technical information, what they value in manufacturer relationships, and how innovation and sustainability influence product selection.

This is the only research that offers a comprehensive view of architects’ specification behaviors, needs, and preferences across firm sizes, regions, and career stages. Read at AIA.

Call for Proposals: Women’s Leadership Summit 2026

Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS) brings together the architecture industry’s largest network of women for a premier leadership?experience.?We?seek?bold, engaging proposals?that inspire, educate, and support women at every career stage. Learn more and start your proposal here.

AIA26 registration is now open

Join us in San Diego, June 10–13, for four days of immersive learning, inspiring keynotes, architect-led tours, networking events, and the industry’s largest expo. Save hundreds with early registration rates now through April 10! Register here.

AIA COLORADO’S

PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

AEF Traveling Scholarships application window closes March 31st

Architecture Education Foundation (AEF)’s 2026 Traveling Scholarships are now open, with applications due March 31. These awards support architects, faculty, and graduates in expanding their design perspective through meaningful travel and study. Most awards may be split between two recipients and give preference to AIA Colorado members, CU faculty, and students where noted. Applicants must submit a completed application, project statement, travel plan, budget, and three letters of reference (not to exceed 10 pages), and recipients agree to share a written summary and presentation following their travels. Learn more about the available scholarships here and apply here.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.

Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine. 

View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill

AIA COLORADO’S

ALLIED MEMBERS

Find the Right Expertise

Our Allied Members bring depth and diversity to Colorado’s design and construction community. These experienced professionals offer specialized knowledge that complements architectural practice and elevates project outcomes statewide.

Become an Allied member

Helpful Links:

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

  • Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

  • 2026 Awards Celebration: 
    • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
    • Thursday, September 17
  • 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
    • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
    • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

Volunteer Opportunities:

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

Business of Architecture: Acquiring / Merging Your Business

Posted on by Jon Bell

Businesss of Architecture Knowledge Community

Discussion Recap

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Mergers, Acquisitions, and Firm Transitions

The AIA Colorado Business of Architecture Knowledge Committee hosted an engaging roundtable discussion exploring one of the most consequential decisions a firm owner can face: how and when to transition ownership.

The conversation featured three architecture leaders who recently navigated mergers or acquisitions of their firms:

  • John Ward, AIA, Founder of 505 Design, now Managing Director and Principal at Cooper Carry
  • John Bencich, AIA, Founder of Square Feet Studio, now Principal at Arcturis
  • Bill Turner, AIA, Founder of Path21 Architecture, now Principal at Hord Coplan Macht

Each shared candid insights into the realities of selling, merging, or transitioning a firm, from early preparation and valuation to culture, leadership, and integration challenges.

Discussion

Key Takeaways

1. Culture Fit Matters More Than the Numbers

Across all three stories, the most important factor in choosing a partner firm was cultural alignment.

While valuation and financial structure are critical, the panelists emphasized that merging firms is ultimately about people and shared values.

One of the first steps for John Ward’s firm was flying to Atlanta to spend several days with Cooper Carry’s partners, not just in meetings, but over dinners and informal conversations.

As Ward put it, the goal was simple: “You have to understand who you’re marrying.”

John Bencich described turning down an early acquisition offer from a highly respected firm because the conversations felt too transactional and lacked transparency.

2. The “Middle-Sized Firm” Problem

A recurring theme was the difficulty of operating a mid-sized architecture practice.

Firms that are very small can remain nimble and profitable, while large firms benefit from scale and resources. But firms in the middle often face unique pressures.

Bencich summarized the dilemma:

  • Too large to remain nimble
  • Too small to compete for major projects
  • Carrying significant overhead without the resources of larger firms

This challenge ultimately motivated both Bencich and Turner to pursue mergers that would provide greater capacity and market reach.

3. Clients Often Drive the Decision to Merge

For Bill Turner’s firm, the push toward merger came directly from clients.

Clients consistently told his team: “We love working with you, but if you want bigger projects, we worry about your bandwidth.”

Joining Hord Coplan Macht allowed his firm to access the resources and scale needed to pursue larger work, while still maintaining their specialized healthcare expertise.

Within months of the merger, the team was already seeing larger projects and expanded opportunities.

4. Firm Valuation Is Simpler Than Many Expect

Despite the complexity of mergers and acquisitions, the valuation methods described were relatively straightforward.

Most deals focused on:

  • Three-year average revenue
  • Profitability
  • Backlog and future work

While firms sometimes discuss intangible value such as goodwill, panelists noted that valuation ultimately comes down to financial performance and sustainability.

As Turner described it: “Our valuation was simple: three-year average revenue. That was it.”

5. Growing Future Leaders Is Critical

Regardless of whether a firm transitions internally or through a merger, panelists emphasized that investing in employees is essential.

Potential buyers look closely at a firm’s leadership pipeline, not just its current partners.

Ward noted that acquiring firms evaluate the next generation carefully: “They’re already looking at the bench. They’re looking at the generation after you.”

Panelists encouraged firm leaders to begin developing talent early and consistently.

6. Internal Transitions Require Much More Time Than Most Expect

Several participants noted that internal ownership transitions often fail because firms start too late.

Developing leaders who are ready to take ownership requires years of intentional mentoring, leadership development, and trust building.

Bencich shared that even after elevating new partners, it took significant time for leadership teams to align and operate effectively.

7. Transparency Improves Firm Performance

Many of the panelists practiced high levels of financial transparency within their firms.

They shared metrics such as:

  • Profit and loss statements
  • Backlog
  • Cash on hand
  • Signed contracts

According to Turner and Bencich, this transparency helped employees better understand the realities of running a firm and often improved overall profitability and engagement.

Shared

Stories and Memorable Moments

The “Dating” Phase of a Merger

Bill Turner described the early stages of a merger as similar to dating.

Before discussing finances, firms spend months meeting leadership teams, exploring chemistry, and asking difficult questions about culture, values, and long-term goals.

His firm spent nearly a year building relationships before moving toward a final agreement.

When a Deal Doesn’t Feel Right

Bencich shared a story about rejecting an acquisition offer because the process felt too transactional.

The acquiring firm refused to allow conversations with previously acquired firms, which raised concerns about transparency.

That experience reinforced how important trust and openness are during merger negotiations.

The Hidden Complexity of Integration

John Ward described a challenge that many firms underestimate: post-merger integration.

Although the merger with Cooper Carry was successful, he noted that the firms did not invest enough effort in integrating cultures and operations.

He observed that some firms now dedicate entire teams to integration, sometimes spending two years focused solely on bringing organizations together.

The Mindset Shift After Selling

Ward also reflected on how selling a firm changes one’s perspective.

With his three-year contract nearing completion, he acknowledged that his mindset has shifted significantly: “It’s amazing how your mindset changes as you get closer to that date.”

This highlights the emotional and psychological dimension of ownership transition.

Advice for Firms

Considering a Merger or Acquisition

The panelists offered several pieces of advice for firm leaders thinking about future transitions:

Understand your business

  • Know your numbers
  • Track profitability and revenue drivers
  • Run your firm as a serious business

Invest heavily in your people

  • Develop leadership early
  • Build trust and mentorship into your culture
  • Create opportunities for growth

Start preparing early

  • Transitions often take a decade or more
  • Leadership development cannot be rushed

Focus on relationships

  • Cultural alignment matters as much as financial terms

Be transparent

  • Educate employees about how the business operates
  • Shared understanding improves decision-making and performance

About the

Business of Architecture Knowledge Committee

Members of this committee help to organize events and learning opportunities around the business side of architecture. Topics might include marketing, HR and legal, when to hire, practice structure and organization, contracts/contract negotiation, remote work, and more.

For 2026, the committee is hosting a series of roundtables and all members are invited to attend and participate either in person or virtually.

RSVP for events at AIA Colorado’s event page.

EVENTS

Colorado Architecture News | 03.04.26

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

03.04.26

In this Newsletter:

  • What Colorado’s New Housing Laws Mean for Architects event recap
  • LegaLine: a new AIA Colorado member benefit
  • Mar 6: EP/YA Virtual Connect
  • Mar 10: Business of Architecture: acquiring/merging your business
  • Mar 11: South Section happy hour
  • Apr 14: North Section EP/YA & AIAS happy hour
  • Apr 21: West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness
  • Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

AIA COLORADO’S

NEWS

What Colorado’s New Housing Laws Mean for Architects

Colorado architects are entering a pivotal moment in housing policy. In the recent online event How Architects Can Take Advantage of New Colorado Housing Policies, Sean Jursnick, AIA, John Glenn, AIA, and Nikolaus Remus, AIA, unpacked two transformative bills: HB25-1273, which allows five-story single-stair residential buildings in cities over 100,000, and HB25-1272, an opt-in construction defect program designed to revive Colorado’s condominium market. The session explored how Denver is already leading implementation, how local advocacy can shape building code adoption in our home rule state, and how these changes fit within a broader national movement to expand housing options. To read a full summary, key takeaways, and view a recording of the session, go here.

LegaLine: a new AIA Colorado member benefit

As an AIA Colorado member, you have access to LegaLine, a confidential legal information service designed specifically for architects. Whether you’re reviewing a contract, navigating a client issue, thinking about bringing on a partner, or managing a staffing question, LegaLine offers a smart first step. LegaLine can provide guidance on questions such as:

  • Negotiating and interpreting contracts
  • Navigating disputes with clients, employees, or contractors
  • Structuring effective joint ventures
  • Evaluating the benefits of incorporating your practice
  • Collecting past-due or disputed fees
  • Hiring or terminating employees
  • Transferring firm ownership
  • Determining whether you need to retain an attorney

To learn more and get started, go here.

AIA COLORADO’S

EVENTS

Mar 6 • EP/YA Leadership Council Virtual Connect

Friday, March 6th, Noon to 1pm, join AIA Colorado’s Emerging Professional and Young Architect Leadership Council for a one-hour Virtual Connect. This Zoom session will introduce the EP/YA Leadership Council, including our mission, structure, and how our programs support licensure, leadership development, and community building across Colorado. More info and RSVP here.

Mar 10 • Business of Architecture: Acquiring / Merging Your Business

Tuesday, March 10th, join AIA Colorado’s Business of Architecture Committee for an AIA Colorado members only roundtable discussion regarding acquiring/merging your business. This is a hybrid event, taking place in person and online. More info and RSVP here.

Mar 11 • South Section Happy Hour

Wednesday, March 11th, at 5pm, at 105 West Brewing at Garden of the Gods, join AIA Colorado South members for a happy hour with good company, thoughtful conversation, and a shared appreciation for design. RSVP here.

Apr 14 • North Section EP/YA & AIAS Happy Hour

Tuesday, April 14th, at 5pm, at Attic Bar & Bistro in Boulder, join AIA Colorado North members, the EP/YA Council, and AIAS for a happy hour designed to connect emerging professionals. RSVP here.

Apr 21 • West Virtual Connect: Disaster Preparedness

Tuesday, April 21st, at Noon, join fellow Western Slope members for a discussion on preparedness, response, and recovery. Hear insights from colleagues and learn practical strategies to strengthen and support community resilience. RSVP here.

RSVP to AIA Colorado Events

NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE

COMMUNITY

Mark Bacon, AIA, on Architect-ing

Mark Bacon, AIA, Design Principal at BVH Architecture and Lecturer at the University of Nebraska Lincoln College of Architecture, joins Adam Wagoner, AIA, live from the 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference in Keystone for a thoughtful conversation on practicing architecture in what he calls the “Generous Middle.”

In this episode, Mark and Adam explore how architects can create meaningful, high-quality work in regions that are often overlooked. Mark discusses the power of restraint, careful detailing, and clear storytelling to elevate projects even within modest budgets and complex contexts. He also speaks to the importance of returning to the Midwest, teaching and practicing simultaneously, and helping raise expectations within the communities architects serve. 

Watch the conversation on Youtube or listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Pandora or wherever you get podcasts!

CAP Spring Lecture Series

All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO. View the full Spring schedule here.

CAREER CORNER

JOB BOARD UPDATES

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

AIA Colorado Job Board

NEWA FROM

AIA NATIONAL

AIA Small Firm Compensation & Benefits Report

Conversations about pay and benefits are easier—and more effective—with trusted data. Exclusively for sole proprietors and small firms with fewer than three architectural staff employees, the 2025 AIA Small Firm Compensation & Benefits Report delivers clear, actionable insights. 

AIA Colorado has copies of the report available for members to view at AIA Colorado’s offices at the Alliance Center. If you’d like to schedule a time to view the report, please inquire here.

Young Architects Forum (YAF) February Newsletter

A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie. Find the newsletter here.

Future Forward Grant opens March 14

A project presented by the Large Firm Roundtable (LFRT) and the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF), this grant supports students, emerging professionals, and early career architects in the testing of new ideas that disrupt the traditional conception of practice, process, and product in the field of architecture. Learn more here.

It Take’s a Village: A Parents & Caregiver’s Initiative

The 2024 Future Forward Grant recipients have published the framework for It Takes a Village: A Parents & Caregivers Initiative, offering practical strategies to help architecture firms better support employees before, during, and after caregiver leave. The work also includes a recorded AIAU course that explores research findings, policy recommendations, and communication tools to foster more equitable, sustainable workplace cultures. Explore the framework and learning course to support meaningful change within your firm. View the AIAU course here.

Architecture firm billings continue to contract heading into 2026

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index® (ABI) dropped to 43.8 in January, down from 47.1 in December, signaling a greater number of firms experienced a decline in billings compared to the previous month. Read at AIA.

AIA26 registration is now open

Join us in San Diego, June 10–13, for four days of immersive learning, inspiring keynotes, architect-led tours, networking events, and the industry’s largest expo. Save hundreds with early registration rates now through April 10! Register here.

AIA COLORADO’S

PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

AEF Traveling Scholarships application window closes March 31st

Architecture Education Foundation (AEF)’s 2026 Traveling Scholarships are now open, with applications due March 31. These awards support architects, faculty, and graduates in expanding their design perspective through meaningful travel and study. Most awards may be split between two recipients and give preference to AIA Colorado members, CU faculty, and students where noted. Applicants must submit a completed application, project statement, travel plan, budget, and three letters of reference (not to exceed 10 pages), and recipients agree to share a written summary and presentation following their travels. Learn more about the available scholarships here and apply here.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community. 

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.

Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine. 

View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill

AIA COLORADO’S

ALLIED MEMBERS

Find the Right Expertise

Our Allied Members bring depth and diversity to Colorado’s design and construction community. These experienced professionals offer specialized knowledge that complements architectural practice and elevates project outcomes statewide.

Become an Allied member

Helpful Links:

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

  • Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

  • 2026 Awards Celebration: 
    • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
    • Thursday, September 17
  • 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
    • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
    • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

Volunteer Opportunities:

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

How Architects Can Take Advantage of New Colorado Housing Policies

Posted on by Jon Bell

Event

Summary

The session “How Architects Can Take Advantage of New Colorado Housing Policies” explored two groundbreaking legislative measures in Colorado: House Bill 25-1273: Residential Building Stair Modernization and House Bill 25- 1272: Construction Defects & Middle Market Housing. Led by AIA Nikolaus Remus, AIA, Sean Jursnick, AIA, and John Glenn, AIA, the session provided architects with actionable insights into adapting their practices to take advantage of these policies.

AIA Colorado’s Housing Committee and Government Affairs Committee played key roles in advocating for these bills, with AIA Colorado’s lobbyist Jerry Johnson leading efforts at the Capitol. The Architects’ Advocacy Day at the Capitol was highlighted as a crucial initiative for engaging legislators and promoting the architecture profession.

HB25-1273 seeks to increase housing density by allowing single-stair residential buildings up to five stories in cities with populations exceeding 100,000. Local jurisdictions must adopt these provisions by December 2027. Denver is leading the way with its own additional safety measures, including allowances for Type III construction, signage requirements for fire fighters, and emergency escape openings for each unit instead of per floor. The bill excludes Type V construction due to fire safety concerns raised during stakeholder discussions, including input from fire marshals, fire chiefs, and firefighter unions. The session also showcased examples from Seattle, where single-stair housing has successfully provided affordable, mid-scale options in urban areas.

House Bill 25-1272 addresses Colorado’s condominium shortage through an opt-in program that requires third-party inspections during construction and establishes warranty periods for workmanship of one year, plumbing and electrical systems of two years, and structural components of six years. The program aims to reduce construction defects, improve liability protections for architects and engineers, and encourage more condominium projects. Colorado’s statute of repose of six years plus two years remains intact, with the program providing additional liability protection for construction professionals.

Speakers emphasized the importance of collaboration among architects, contractors, and policymakers to navigate these new opportunities effectively. Architects were encouraged to integrate these policies into their practices, from contract negotiations to construction administration, while considering the implications of third-party inspections and warranty requirements.

The session concluded with a call to support the Architects of Colorado Political Committee (ARCpac), which funds campaign contributions to candidates who share the values of the architecture profession. Attendees were urged to share feedback on their experiences with these policies to inform future improvements and ensure their successful implementation across Colorado.

Key

Takeaways

Single-Stair Legislation Is a National Movement Across Multiple States

Colorado is part of a broader national movement with states including Texas, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, Idaho, and Wisconsin proposing or passing single-stair legislation. Each state has taken different approaches—Texas created an opt-in model for local jurisdictions, while Minnesota formed a study group. Seattle has successfully built hundreds of single-stair projects over decades.

“It’s a broad movement that’s happening around the country, where legislators and policy makers are applying scrutiny to the building code and looking at ways to improve housing options through modifying the building code in ways that they feel appropriate for their states and their locations.”

Local Advocacy Can Inform How State Law is Implemented Into Local Building Codes

While state law restricts single-stair buildings to certain construction types, architects can advocate at the local level for jurisdictions to allow Type V and Type III construction, just as Denver allowed Type III even though the state bill didn’t require it. Colorado is a home rule state, meaning local jurisdictions can adopt more permissive building codes.

“Right now, our greatest potential is to engage at the local level with jurisdictions that will adopt this code, advocate for them to allow Type V and Type III construction. There’s lots of safe precedent to build on, allowing Type V construction for this type of housing makes a lot of sense.”

Denver Leads State by Adopting Single-Stair Provisions with Additional Flexibility

Denver became the first Colorado city to adopt single-stair provisions, going beyond state requirements by allowing Type III construction in addition to Types I, II, and IV. Denver also requires emergency escape openings at each unit (not just each floor), building signage indicating single-stair design, and limits of no more than two single-stair buildings per site.

“In addition to allowing types I, II, and IV construction type for single-stair buildings of 5 stories, they also allow Type III as well. They felt that was appropriate to allow a very common construction type used all over the city for apartments.”

Fire Fighter Group Opposition Blocked Type V Construction in State Bill

Type V wood frame construction was excluded from the single-stair bill due to strong opposition from fire marshals, fire chiefs, and the firefighters union. A 2024 version of the bill failed because fire marshals weren’t included in stakeholder discussions. In 2025, they drew a firm line against Type V construction, limiting the affordability potential of these buildings.

“They really put their foot down and said, we do not trust Type V construction, whether those assemblies are protected or not. That was basically a line in the sand they drew. We’re stuck with that because that’s what got the bill passed.”

Cities Have Until December 2027 to Adopt Single-Stair Provisions

Colorado cities with populations above 100,000 must modify their building codes to allow 5-story single-stair residential projects by December 2027. Smaller jurisdictions are not required to adopt these provisions but can opt in voluntarily through their typical code adoption process since Colorado is a home rule state.

“Not every city in the State is going to be required to allow these taller single stair buildings. The scope of the bill directs jurisdictions with populations of cities with populations above 100,000 people. And they have until December 1st of 2027 to create their codes.”

Program Applies to Any For-Sale Project with Two or More Attached Units

The Multifamily Construction Incentive Program applies to any for-sale multifamily residential project with two or more attached units, including duplexes, townhomes, row homes, and high-rise condos. The key requirement is that units share building components like walls, ceilings, or floors. Detached units on the same property would not be enrolled.

“This project does technically allow any project of two or more units to qualify, so it can be a duplex, it can be townhomes or row homes, it can be a high-rise condo building. So that’s a pretty broad scope, as long as it is a for-sale project.”

Colorado’s Condo Construction Defect Program Is Unprecedented Nationally

HB25-1272 creates an opt-in program intended to spur more condominium construction in Colorado by providing better protection against construction defect lawsuits in exchange for third-party inspections and warranties. No other state has attempted anything like this program, making Colorado’s implementation uncharted territory.

“No one else in the country is doing anything like this. We are in uncharted territory. There were over 100 stakeholder meetings with the sponsors of this bill, so there was a lot of people with a lot of opinions and input.”

Contract Documentation Must Address Program Intentions Upfront

Architects should discuss the construction defect program with clients before entering contracts, spell out that they are designing to 1272 standards, and ensure the owner agrees to require the general contractor to enroll in the program. Consultant contracts should also address the program and potential corrective action requirements.

“When negotiating your contract, you want to spell out that you are, as the architect, designing to these 1272 standards. Both parties agree that we want, collectively, we want the general contractor to enroll in this program and do the inspections.”

Architects Gain Better Protection Against Frivolous Lawsuits Under New Program

For projects enrolled in the program, owners must find an independent architect or engineer to specifically identify design negligence before naming architects in lawsuits. This is a significant improvement over current practice where it’s very easy to name architects in construction defect lawsuits with minimal evidence.

“For projects that do end up enrolled in this program, the owner who’s suffering from a defect actually has to find a consultant to evaluate whether or not they think that there is architects or engineers negligence, and they have to be specific about what that negligence is.”

Architects Need a Plan B Since General Contractor Enrollment Isn’t Guaranteed

Since the general contractor registers the project and enrollment happens late in the construction process, architects cannot control whether a project ultimately gets enrolled. Architects should document projects thoroughly regardless of program intentions, alert clients if inspections aren’t taking place, and assume standard liability risks apply.

“You still need to probably have a Plan B just in case the GC doesn’t follow through with these inspections. If they’re not, you still want to cover yourself and document the project thoroughly like normally, so down the road, if the GC does choose not to enroll, at least you still have that protection.”

Colorado Architecture News | 02.18.26

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects

02.18.26

In this Newsletter:

  • AIA Leadership Summit 2026
  • LegaLine: a new AIA Colorado member benefit
  • Feb 25: How Architects Can Take Advantage of New Colorado Housing Policies
  • Feb 27: Firm Friday at OZ Architecture
  • Mar 2: Atelier May lecture at CU Boulder
  • Mar 6: EP/YA Virtual Connect
  • Mar 10: Business of Architecture: acquiring/merging your business
  • Mar 11: South Section happy hour
  • Premier Partner spotlight: Architectural Education Foundation (AEF)

AIA COLORADO’S

NEWS

AIA Leadership Summit 2026

AIA Leadership Summit 2026 is the premier advocacy and leadership training event for AIA chapter leaders. Held annually in Washington D.C., the event is always one of AIA’s best attended leadership events, offering attendees a unique platform to engage in critical policy discussions with lawmakers while enhancing their leadership skills.

One component of the Leadership Summit experience is Hill Day, providing architect members with a platform to directly advocate for legislation impacting the profession before Members of Congress and Congressional staff. AIA Colorado leaders met with congressional staff from several offices, sharing on the issues affecting the industry today.

Kaylyn Kirby, AIA, represented Colorado at the Young Architects Forum (YAF) Annual Meeting and Mo Zaina, Assoc, AIA, represented Colorado at the National Associates Committee (NAC) Annual Meeting. Read about the experiences of AIA Colorado’s delegation here.

LegaLine: a new AIA Colorado member benefit

As an AIA Colorado member, you have access to LegaLine, a confidential legal information service designed specifically for architects. Whether you’re reviewing a contract, navigating a client issue, thinking about bringing on a partner, or managing a staffing question, LegaLine offers a smart first step. LegaLine can provide guidance on questions such as:

  • Negotiating and interpreting contracts
  • Navigating disputes with clients, employees, or contractors
  • Structuring effective joint ventures
  • Evaluating the benefits of incorporating your practice
  • Collecting past-due or disputed fees
  • Hiring or terminating employees
  • Transferring firm ownership
  • Determining whether you need to retain an attorney

To learn more and get started, go here.

North members enjoyed a Happy Hour at Social in Fort Collins last night. Cheers to the last group still mingling before heading out, pictured here.

AIA COLORADO’S

EVENTS

Feb 25 • How Architects Can Take Advantage of New Colorado Housing Policies

Wednesday, February 25th, at Noon, members can join the AIA Colorado Housing Committee for a webinar uncovering ways architects can take advantage of new Colorado housing polices. If your practice is considering taller residential single-stair buildings or any for-sale residential projects with two or more units, there are exciting new opportunities for architects who do this work. These new policies have specific design and contract requirements that must be met though. Submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.

Feb 27 • Firm Fridays: OZ Architecture

Friday, February 27, from 4:30 – 6pm, join members for an informal open house and happy hour as OZ Architecture opens their doors to AIA Colorado members. You’ll have the opportunity to tour OZ’s office and learn about the projects they are currently working on. Connect with fellow members while enjoying drinks and light refreshments. AIA members can RSVP here.

Mar 2 • Atelier Mey: American Building Spirit | Pioneering Architectures of Place

Monday, March 2, at 5pm, join AIA North members and students for a lecture by the Atelier Mey team in the Environment Design Building at CU Boulder. Learn more about the firm, their principals, and the lecture centered around the firm’s belief that Design is Optimism. More info and RSVP here.

Mar 6 • EP/YA Leadership Council Virtual Connect

Friday, March 6th, Noon to 1pm, join AIA Colorado’s Emerging Professional and Young Architect Leadership Council for a one-hour Virtual Connect. This Zoom session will introduce the EP/YA Leadership Council, including our mission, structure, and how our programs support licensure, leadership development, and community building across Colorado. More info and RSVP here.

Mar 10 • Business of Architecture: Acquiring / Merging Your Business

Tuesday, March 10th, join AIA Colorado’s Business of Architecture Committee for an AIA Colorado members only roundtable discussion regarding acquiring/merging your business. This is a hybrid event, taking place in person and online. More info and RSVP here.

Mar 11 • South Section Happy Hour

Wednesday, March 11th, at 5pm, at 105 West Brewing at Garden of the Gods, join AIA Colorado South members for a happy hour with good company, thoughtful conversation, and a shared appreciation for design. RSVP here.

RSVP to AIA Colorado Events

AIA COLORADO’S

MEMBER NEWS

Ann Adams, FAIA, Principal at Davis Partnership Architects, has been newly elevated to the College of Fellows. AIA is elevating 78 member-architects and 11 non-member-architects to its College of Fellows, an honor awarded to architects who have made significant contributions to the profession. 

New Fellows will be honored at the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design (AIA26) in San Diego. Congratulations, Ann!

Learn more about Ann’s elevation and Fellowship here.

MOA Architecture was recently featured in USA Today for their expansion of the iconic Stanley Hotel.

2025’s AIA Colorado Architect of the Year Kevin Nguyen, AIA, keeps the conversation going as a guest on a recent podcast with City Cast Denver. You can listen to the episode titled “Meet the Ambiance Architect of Denver’s Coolest Restaurants” here.

NEWS & EVENTS FROM THE

COMMUNITY

David Zack on Architect-ing

David Zach, professional futurist and founder of FutureWorks, joins Adam Wagoner, AIA, for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation about architecture, technology, beauty, and the accelerating pace of change. Recorded live at the 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference, David brings decades of experience studying the future to a discussion that challenges architects to think more deeply about creativity, community, and what cannot be automated. Watch the conversation on Youtube or listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Pandora or wherever you get podcasts!

CAP Spring Lecture Series

All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO. View the full Spring schedule here.

Building on the Edge

ColoradoBuildingWorkshop’s project designed for NOAA’s Antarctic Ecosystem Research Division, a 2024 AIA Colorado Design Award of Merit recipient, is the subject of a new feature length documentary. Having recently screened in NY, LA, Vancouver, and Toronto as part of the Architecture and Design Film Festival and won Best Feature Documentary at the Coronado Island Film Festival, see it at the Colorado Environmental Film Festival Saturday, February 21st, at 1pm at Bunker Auditorium on the Colorado School of Mines campus. More information about the film can be found here and tickets to see it are available here.

CAREER CORNER

JOB BOARD UPDATES

The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:

AIA Colorado Job Board

NEWA FROM

AIA NATIONAL

AIA Task Force

The AIA AI Task Force is leading efforts to address the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in architecture. By developing resources, guidance, and educational programming, the task force ensures architects can adopt AI responsibly, ethically, and innovatively while advancing the profession. Read at AIA.

Young Architects Forum (YAF) January Newsletter

A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie. In this newsletter, check out the call for submissions for articles, editorials, project profiles, interviews/spotlights, and other design content. Also, watch “It Takes a Village: A Guide to Parents and Caregivers in Architecture,” moderated by Colorado’s own Kaylyn Kirby, AIA! Find the newsletter here.

AIA COLORADO’S

PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, Architectural Education Foundation (AEF). 

The Architectural Education Foundation, in partnership with AIA Colorado, offers traveling and professional development scholarships to support your educational endeavors and gain more experience. Since 1961, they have awarded more than $1 million to more than 250 students, architects, and teachers. Thanks to their support, we’re pleased to share the availability of academic and travel scholarships for 2026. 

2026 Architectural Education Foundation Traveling and Professional Development Scholarships are open! Learn more about each available scholarship, application requirements, and apply here.

AIA COLORADO’S

ALLIED MEMBERS

Looking for additional resources?

Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Become an Allied member

Helpful Links:

AIA Colorado Firm Directory

  • Add your firm to the directory here.

Save the Dates:

  • 2026 Awards Celebration: 
    • Mile High Station, Denver, CO
    • Thursday, September 17
  • 2026 Practice + Design Conference: 
    • Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO
    • November 11 – 13

Calls for Proposals:

Have news to share? If you or your firm have been featured in the media, published in a design outlet, received an award, or announced a major promotion, email AIA Colorado’s Communications Director Jon Bell.

© AIA Colorado 2026
Skip to content