Colorado Architecture News | 06.05.24
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 06.05.24
In this Newsletter:
- Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations
- Legislative session wrap up
- CKLDP Spring recap
- AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship
- Colorado Night at AIA24 June 6th
- West Virtual Connect June 11th
- Metro Denver Economic Outlook June 12th
- Mass Timber Construction presentation June 13th
- Populus Hotel tours June 13th and June 24th
- One River North tour June 27th
- Code Class June 28th
- Remembering Marvin Sparn, FAIA and Member news
- Safety Assessment Program (SAP) Evaluator Training 2024 and National news
- Premier Partner spotlight: JVA, Inc.
AIA COLORADO NEWS
Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations now open
The Practice + Design Conference brings together the community of architects in Colorado for inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods, and practical innovations from industry partners. We’re interested in hearing from those in our community who are ready to contribute and lead a session at Keystone.
This year’s theme, GENERATE, focuses on what lies ahead for our architecture profession: the sustainability and resiliency needed in our craft, the rapidly advancing technology enabling new models of delivery, and the talent required for our future workforces. Our world is rapidly changing, and no profession is better suited to guide the places we will inhabit than architects. Sub-themes this year will include REGENERATE (sustainability), REGENERATION (resiliency), GENERATIVE (technology, digital fabrication), GENERATION (future of the profession, justice equity diversity & inclusion), and of course DESIGN.
If you have a presentation in mind, visit the link below and start your submission today. Or, if you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to create a submission. The submission window closes Wednesday, July 31st at 5pm.
2024 Legislative Session Summary Part 1
With the 2024 legislative session in the books, let’s review the bills of interest to AIA Colorado. This year, there were 46 bills on our tracking list out of 705 introduced. Most importantly, our practice act was renewed! Five of the nine bills we supported passed and both two bills we opposed failed. 2024 was a tight budget year so many bills that otherwise had a chance of passing did not have funding available.
Given the number of bills of interest to architects this year, we’ll review highlights in both June newsletters. This week we’ll cover our practice act and the many housing-related bills introduced. Please note that while some bills are still awaiting the governor’s signature, we do not anticipate any more will get vetoed than those already noted as such. Read the Legislative Session Summary Part 1 here.
CKLDP Spring recap
Since its first program here in Colorado in 2017, AIA’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program provides participants the opportunity to form a cohort with other emerging professionals in the field of architecture (sixteen are selected each year from a group of well-qualified applicants), developing their skills on several focused topics in the once-a-month sessions throughout the year. The 2024 program is well underway in its eighth year, with Bootcamp, Sessions 1, and Session 2 having recently taking place. Read a recap of the first three sessions here.
AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship
Congratulations to CU Denver Architecture students Toni Alexander and Abigail Arredondo, the first-ever awardees of the AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship. Recently, Toni joined AIA Colorado Fellows and Dean Stephanie Santorico, PhD, for a luncheon to celebrate their award.
Last week, the AIA Colorado North Local Advisors organized a private tour of the National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory where members learned about the facility and the legendary design of I.M. Pei.
The Future of Local Sustainability Codes event, held in Basalt at the Rocky Mountain Institute, enjoyed a great discussion with local community leaders and attendees from throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.
AIA Colorado Events
Colorado Night at AIA24
Thursday, June 6th, connect with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Meet in the Silver Linden Room, Marriott Marquis, Washington, D.C. Join us!
RSVP here
West Virtual Connect
Tuesday, June 11, from 8-9:30am, join AIA Colorado West Director Andi Korber, AIA, and connect virtually with other Western Slope members for a time of conversation. Many of us are facing the same challenges day after day and we will gather regularly to share concerns, goals, and ideas for Western Colorado AIA membership. Hopefully, these conversations will create a springboard for more to come.
RSVP here
Metro Denver Economic Outlook
Wednesday, June 12, from 12-1pm, learn about labor market trends, consumer activity, inflation, projections on what the Fed is going to do, and other trends impacting our region’s economy.
Join waitlist
Mass Timber Construction presentation
Thursday, June 13th, from 4 – 6pm, in Fort Collins, join AIA North members and the Structural Engineers Association of Colorado (SEAC) for an overview on Mass Timber Construction. Chris Kendall of KL&A Engineers & Builders along with Dan Craig of SAR+ will present an overview of mass timber structures and constructibility concerns designers should be aware of when embarking on projects of this type. This presentation has been submitted for learning credits.
Join waitlist
Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment
June 20th, from Noon – 1pm, join the AIA Colorado Committee on the Environment for Member Education Session #1: Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment. A few of the topics discussed will include:
- An understanding of the origins and current requirements of the AIA 2030 Commitment. What is it and how to become a signatory.
- Examples of successful and implemented Sustainability Action Plans.
- Compare how different size firms have found success with joining the 2030 Commitment and tracking performance data on projects.
- Investigate the online data collection platform called the DDx and what types of metrics firms are asked to collect on their projects in regard to operational and embodied carbon.
A Q+A session will follow the presentation.
RSVP here
Populus Hotel tours
Located on a prominent corner site, Populus is designed to reenergize Civic Center Park, connecting the Golden Triangle Creative District to downtown Denver. Join The Denver Local Advisors to tour this soon-to-be-iconic building. Tours have been approved for 1 LU|HSW and are available on the following dates and times:
- Thursday, June 13, from 4-5pm
- Monday, June 24, from 10-11:30am (waitlist available)
- Monday, June 24, from 11:30am – 1pm (waitlist available)
One River North tour
June 27, from 4-5:30pm, join the Denver Local Advisors to tour the project in the RiNo neighborhood that has certainly provided a captivating story with its crevasses running across its façade. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
Join waitlist
Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code overview
Friday, June 28th, in Denver, join this one-day seminar addresses the relationship of the International Existing Building Code to existing buildings. The seminar, which includes lunch, focuses on the fundamental requirements on an existing structure that undergoes repair work, alteration, renovation activity or construction of an addition, and the effect of a change in the building’s occupancy classification. Discussion will also include the “Performance Compliance Alternatives” method of evaluating a building. This class has been submitted for approval for 6 LU|HSW.
RSVP here
Upcoming events in July:
- Key to Business Resilience • July 10
- Happy Hour at Union Station • July 18
Member News
The AIA Colorado community mourns the passing of Marvin Sparn, FAIA.
“I had the good fortune to work with Marvin for about 40 years through AIA Colorado. As many know, Marv was elected president in 1991 and shortly after, due to great staffing difficulties, he and his wife, Yvonne, took over the day-to-day operation of the organization. For nearly a year, they basically ran AIA Colorado, a daunting task, especially as a volunteer! Marv was elevated to Fellowship in 1996 in recognition of his Service to the Profession. He was instrumental in helping start the AIA Colorado College of Fellows Scholarship Fund, which just recently awarded its first two student scholarships from its $100,000 endowment. From 1998 through 2001, Marvin represent the AIA Western Mountain Region as a Director on the National AIA Board. And in 2001 was awarded the AIA/WMR Silver Medal, the highest honor the six-state region of the AIA can bestow. Marvin was a great personal friend and a prodigious friend to the AIA. His passing should be a reminder of the example he set as a tireless advocate of the profession.” — Phil Gerou, FAIA
“Marvin was the most prolific supporter and attendee of Fellows and AIA activities I have known. He was always there. For those that don’t know even a little about him historically, AIA Colorado was on the verge of bankruptcy when he was president decades ago. He essentially “gave up” his practice to save it and did so successfully when there were only two staff people, one full time, and did it almost alone. Marvin is a true example of selflessness for the benefit of many. One of many examples.” — Gary Desmond, FAIA
“I will always miss his generous and welcoming friendship. His dedication to a more balanced and equitable architectural presence throughout our communities will be missed.” — Blake Chambliss, FAIA
In 2012, Marvin shared meaningful moments from his life journey as well as wide ranging thoughts on architecture with AIA Colorado’s History Committee and you can watch the video here.
Dana Ellis, AIA, AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx) National Representative for Colorado, shared her journey to opening her firm on a recent episode of PRACTICE, the SFx interview series. Watch the interview here.
Hord Coplan Macht announced that Colorado-based Principal Matthew Porta, AIA, LEED AP, CDT, has been promoted to Director of Practice, a newly created position for the firm.
Semple Brown is celebrating four decades of cultivating leadership in the design profession and recognizing Associate Principal and Senior Associate team members who have played a critical role in providing the design quality, client service, and workplace culture that have defined the firm. Congratulations AIA members and Associate Principals Nathan Gulash, AIA, and Kaylyn Kirby, AIA!
Partner News
Denver’s mid-century modern homes walking tour
July 11th, join Historic Denver for a walking tour of Denver’s Mid-Century Modern Homes. If you love mid-century modern, you’ll love learning about the Cliff May homes. All 170 of the homes in Denver were built in the Harvey Park neighborhood, designed to be both prefabricated and elegant in their minimalism. Local expert Atom Stevens leads this tour in southwest Denver, while also sharing his personal experience as a longtime owner of a Cliff May home. Learn more and RSVP here.
Contribute case studies about using salvage lumber
The City of Boulder is working with the City of Eugene to support the development of ICC Residential code changes to include salvage lumber for structural and non-structural use. They are asking for case studies using salvage lumber in roofs/floors/walls with the understanding that walls can be structural or non-loadbearing with the hope that this will bring forward the possibility for the reuse and incorporation of salvaged lumber into the design/construction of buildings. As an allowable use, this will make it easier for all to deconstruct for salvage, increase the incorporation into design, and allow for potential new market uses for salvaged lumber. For more information about the purpose of the International Code Council Residential Code Proposal for Salvage Lumber, view here. To learn more about the code’s anticipated development timeline, view here.
To submit a case study, or get in contact to learn more, email Garian Cike.
Career Corner
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:
NEWS AT NATIONAL
Safety Assessment Program (SAP) evaluator training 2024
June 26-27th, join this training to be certified as Building Evaluators in the nationally recognized Safety Assessment Program (SAP). This program 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. More info and sign up here.
AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index reflects another decline in April
Architecture firm billings remained soft in April, with an AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score of 48.3 for the month. The score rose from 43.6 in March but still indicates that billings continue to decline at most architecture firms. Read at AIA
How to understand architecture business conditions using the AIA’s Architecture Billings Index
To help readers better understand how metrics from ABI translate into the reality of design and construction and to equip them with the tools to interpret the numbers, understand their source, and delineate between various categories, Archinect has assembled a series of questions and answers pertaining to the index. Read at Archinect
Young Architects Forum May newsletter
A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie. Read more
AIA Statement on Architect of the Capitol Appointment
AIA congratulates Thomas Austin and looks forward to working with him as he assumes the critical responsibility as Architect of the Capitol. Read at AIA.
AIA24
We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year! View conference website
Premier Partner at AIA24
We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, JVA, Incorporated, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community.
JVA is a consulting engineering firm with offices in Boulder, Fort Collins, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Denver, Colorado. Since 1956, JVA has provided engineering services to architects, owners, building departments, and general contractors in Colorado and nationwide. Our Structural, Civil, and Environmental engineering departments offer highly skilled engineers who complement your experience to fully meet your design and construction needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide excellent service.
Learn More About JVA.
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.
Helpful Links:
Save the Dates:
- 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
- 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.
AIA Colorado 2024 Legislative Session Summary Part 1
With the 2024 legislative session in the books, let’s review the bills of interest to AIA Colorado. This year, there were 46 bills on our tracking list out of 705 introduced. Most importantly, our practice act was renewed! Five of the nine bills we supported passed and both two bills we opposed failed. 2024 was a tight budget year so many bills that otherwise had a chance of passing did not have funding available.
Given the number of bills of interest to architects this year, we’ll review highlights in both June newsletters. This week we’ll cover our practice act and the many housing-related bills introduced. Please note that while some bills are still awaiting the governor’s signature, we do not anticipate any more will get vetoed than those already noted as such.
Read 2024 Legislative Sessions Summary – Part 2 here.
HB24-1329: Sunset Architects Engineers & Land Surveyors
Bill status: Signed into law
AIA position: Support
Summary: All licensed professionals in Colorado must undergo periodic reviews (at least every 15 years) by the state’s Dept. of Regulatory Agencies (DORA). They then make recommendations on changes or updates to the applicable practice act and the act must be repassed by the state legislature. Changes to our practice act were limited to cleaning up outdated language and references, as well as putting board-related practices in alignment with other similar DORA boards. There were no changes to the way architecture is practiced or the path to licensure. Land Surveyors successfully lobbied to implement their own version of continuing education requirements. We won’t have to go through another review for nine years.
Impact: If the legislature fails to pass a new practice act, architects would have no longer been licensed in the states. This was never a significant risk but AIA Colorado worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth process during the DORA report process in 2023 and this year’s bill as it made its way through the legislature.
HB24-1008: Wage Claims Construction Industry Contractors
Bill status: Vetoed by governor
AIA position: Oppose
Summary: For wage claims brought by individuals working in the construction industry, the bill requires that a subcontractor that receives a written demand for payment forward a copy of the written demand for payment to the general contractor within 3 business days after receipt. It specifies that a general contractor entering into a construction contract is liable for all amounts owed to an employee for the employee’s labor, construction, or other work, including amounts owed by a subcontractor acting under, by, or for the general contractor; and allows a general contractor to require certain information from each subcontractor acting under, by, or for the general contractor.
Impact: If passed, this would have raised construction costs on all projects in Colorado. General Contractors would have to increase their reserves and reevaluate subcontractors they would consider hiring. A similar bill that passed in California has increased tensions between GCs and subs.
HB24-1083: Construction Professional Insurance Coverage Transparency
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: The bill requires the division of insurance (division) to conduct or cause to be conducted a study of construction liability insurance for construction professionals in Colorado.
Impact: Insurance rates for multifamily residential projects (and condos in particular) are significantly higher than other project types due to increased risk of lawsuits. Design and construction professionals, alongside the insurance industry, have been talking about the liability risk for years and don’t believe that a state-conducted study would have come to any other conclusion.
HB24-1125: Tax Credit Commercial Building Conversion
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill creates a new refundable tax credit to be claimed in tax years commencing on or after January 1, 2026, and before January 1, 2036. The credit may be claimed for certain costs related to the conversion of a commercial structure to a residential structure.
Impact: This bill was a victim of the state budget challenges faced this year. The appropriation of $5M would not have impacted a significant number of conversion projects though.
HB24-1152: Accessory Dwelling Units
Bill status: Signed into law
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill requires a subject jurisdiction (in a metropolitan planning district) to allow, subject to an administrative approval process, one accessory dwelling unit as an accessory use to a single-unit detached dwelling in any part of the subject jurisdiction where the subject jurisdiction allows single-unit detached dwellings. The bill also prohibits subject jurisdictions from enacting or enforcing certain local laws that would restrict the construction or conversion of an accessory dwelling unit.
Impact: Local zoning codes have been a significant impediment to increasing the number of ADUs in the state. Even at current construction and financing costs, we believe there will a notable increased in ADUs constructed based on similar changes in other states.
HB24-1175: Local Goverments Rights to Property for Affordable Housing
Bill status: Sent to governor
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: The bill creates a right of first refusal and a right of first offer for local governments to certain types of multifamily rental properties. The right of first offer is temporary and terminates on December 31, 2029. For multifamily rental properties that are existing affordable housing consisting of not less than five units, a local government has a right of first refusal to match an acceptable offer for the purchase of such property, subject to the local government’s commitment to using the property as long-term affordable housing.
Impact: While this bill will preserve existing affordable housing in Colorado, the impact on architects directly will be minimal. Certain residential developers with an eye for a good deal may not be able to pursue for-profit improvement projects on affected multifamily residential properties.
HB24-1230: Protections for Real Property Owners
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Oppose
Summary: The bill makes it a violation of the “Colorado Consumer Protection Act” to obtain or attempt to obtain a waiver or limitation that violates the aforementioned current law. It also requires a court to award to a claimant that prevails in a claim arising from alleged defects in a residential property construction, in addition to actual damages, prejudgment interest on the claim at a rate of 6% from the date the work is finished to the date it is sold to an occupant and 8% thereafter.
The bill increases the amount of time in which a lawsuit may be brought against contruction professionals from 6 to 10 years. IT also changes the time when a claim of relief arises to include both the discovery of the physical manifestation and the cause of the defect instead of when a defect’s physical manifestation was discovered or should have been discovered.
The bill voids a provision in a real estate contract that prohibits group lawsuits against a construction professional. It also prohibits governing documents of a common interest community from setting different or additional requirements than those in current law for a construction defect action.
Impact: If this bill had passed, it would have certainly increased our risk to lawsuits and as a result, would have substantially increased insurance costs for architects and all developers/construction professionals.
HB24-1239: Single-Exit Stairway Multifamily Structure
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill requires a local government to adopt a building code, or amend an existing building code, to allow up to 5 stories of a multifamily residential building to be served by a single exit. To satisfy this requirement, a local government shall incorporate by reference and adopt or adapt and adopt language from a portion of an existing building code that allows a single exit to serve no more than 5 stories of a group r-2 occupancy in the same building. If a local government so requests, the department of local affairs shall provide technical assistance to the local government in satisfying this requirement.
Impact: While taller single-stair residential buildings have a good safety record in other parts of the country, fire marshals lobbied hard against this bill. They had both general safety concerns and believed local governments may not have had the proper emergency response infrastructure to accommodate such buildings. We’ll continue to reach out to stakeholders to determine if there is an opportunity to reintroduce a similar bill next year.
HB24-1304: Minimum Parking Requirements
Bill status: Signed by governor
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: The bill prohibits a local government from enforcing minimum parking requirements for certain real property that is within a metropolitan planning organization. It applies to a land use approval for a multifamily residential development, adaptive re-use for residential purposes, or adaptive re-use mixed-use purposes which include at least fifty percent of use for residential purposes. Subject projects of 6-20 units may not have required parking minimums. Projects greater than 20 units may be required to provide no more than one parking space per unit. Various exceptions exist. Developers may opt to provide more parking, subject to maximums.
Impact: Developers interested in small-site residential projects are excited about the potential for more projects to become viable without existing onerous parking minimums. This will result in more work for certain architects though the bill won’t go into full effect until 2026.
HB24-1313: Housing in Transit-Oriented Communities
Bill status: Signed by governor
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: Local communities, of a minimum size within a metropolitan planning organization, are designated as transit-oriented communities. They must establish transit centers with minimum zoning densities of 15 units per acre. They must also establish and regularly report on a housing opportunity goal. The state will provide resources and funding to assist this effort.
Impact: Greater zoning densities required by the bill may result in more multifamily residential projects in affected areas.
HB24-1314: Modification Tax Credit Preservation Historic Structures
Bill status: Sent to governor
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill extends and modifies the income tax credit for qualified costs incurred in preservation of historic structure. It increases the amount of the credit that may be awarded for residential rehabilitation expenditures from $50,000 to $100,000.
Impact: This bill made numerous minor tweaks to improve an existing program. Historic preservation architects may find more opportunities as a result but existing incentives are largely the same.
HB24-1352: Appliance Requirements & Incentives
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: The bill prohibits the sale and distribution of certain air conditioners that are manufactured on or after January 1, 2027, unless they comply with certain technical standards to act as heat pumps for both heating and cooling. Financial incentives would be provided by the state for income-restricted households.
Impact: While this bill failed, the state remains committed to increasing adoption of heat pumps over natural gas-based HVAC systems.
HB24-1366: Sustainable Local Government Community Planning
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Monitor
Summary: The bill requires state agencies to prioritize awarding grants that satisfy a list of criteria described in the bill. One requirement is that when updating a county or municipal master plan, the local government is to include a climate action element in its master plan. CDOT is to coordinate with metropolitan planning organizations to establish criteria that define growth corridors and identify these growth corridors. Having identified these growth corridors, the department and metropolitan planning organizations shall coordinate with local governments to develop transportation demand management plans for these growth corridors.
Impact: This bill could have improved local infrastructure that may have promoted new development, but it was unclear how much architects may benefit directly.
SB24-106: Right to Remedy Construction Defects
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill creates a right to remedy framework that must be followed prior to a claimant filing a lawsuit against any construction professionals, though the claimant has no obligation to accept the proposed remedy. Also under the act, a claimant is barred from seeking damages for failing to comply with building codes or industry standards unless the failure results in actual damage to real or personal property, actual loss of the use of real or personal property, bodily injury or wrongful death, a risk of bodily injury or death to, or a threat to the life, health, or safety of, the occupants. The bill would also increase the number of unit owners from a majority to 60% that must consent in writing to pursue a construction defect claim on behalf of an entire HOA.
Impact: We were hopeful that this bill would have reduced the number of construction defect lawsuits in multifamily residential projects. This would have opened the door to lower insurance rates and therefore more condominium development. While it failed, there remains strong interest at the capitol to find ways to make up our shortfall in the state of affordable entry-level homes such as condos.
SB24-112: Construction Defect Action Procedures
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Amend
Summary: The bill adds certain disclaimers to the Construction Defect Action Reform Act (CDARA) regarding warranties. Construction professionals would not be vicariously liable for the acts or omissions of a licensed design professional for any construction defects. The bill would also update the process by which unit owners must be informed of and give consent to pursuing a construction defect claim on behalf of an entire HOA.
Impact: This bill was an alternative approach to accomplish what SB24-106 tried to do. We worked closely with the bill’s sponsor to ensure it wouldn’t be unfair towards archtiects, but he opted to pull the bill from consideration.
SB24-154: Accessory Dwelling Units
Bill status: Failed
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill establishes a subject jurisdiction as the unincorporated portion of a county that is not within a unit owners’ association or an area identified as having a high fire intensity. Within these areas, local governments must allow the conversion of an accessory dwelling unit. The bill also prohibits subject jurisdictions from applying a restrictive design or dimension standard to an accessory dwelling unit.
Impact: We were interested in every ADU-related bill introduced but this version didn’t gain traction. Likely due to the low number of existing rural buildings that could have been converted into ADUs.
SB24-174: Sustainable Affordable Housing Assistance
Bill status: Sent to governor
AIA position: Support
Summary: The bill requires the department of local affairs to develop reasonable methodologies for conducting statewide, regional, and local housing needs assessments and reasonable guidance for a local government to identify areas at elevated risk of displacement. They must, every six years, conduct a statewide housing needs assessment that analyzes existing and future statewide housing needs and publish a report identifying current housing stock and estimating statewide housing needs.
The bill requires local governments to conduct and publish a local housing needs assessment to be used for the state’s regular reports. The bill outlines the process for a local government conducting a local housing needs assessment and for determining when a local government is exempt from conducting a local housing needs assessment. The state will offer funding and technical assistance.
Impact: One of the big challenges in affordable housing discussion was that there was no mutual understanding of which cities/counties were proactively trying to increase their housing stock and which have policies that limit growth. This bill will give the legislature a much better understanding of future housing development opportunities and what sorts of statewide policies would be most effective.
Additional housing bills that do not impact the architecture profession directly:
| HB24-1007 | Prohibit Residential Occupancy Limits | Signed by governor |
| HB24-1057 | Prohibit Algorithmic Devices Used for Rent Setting | Sent to governor |
| HB24-1078 | Regulation of Community Association Managers | Failed |
| HB24-1098 | Cause Required for Eviction of Residential Tenant | Signed by governor |
| HB24-1166 | Expand Homestead Exemptions | Failed |
| HB24-1337 | Real Property Owner Unit Association Collections | Sent to governor |
| HB24-1383 | Common Interest Community Declarations | Signed by governor |
| HB24-1434 | Expand Affordable Housing Tax Credit | Sent to governor |
| SB24-033 | Lodging Property Tax Treatment | Failed |
| SB24-097 | Property Tax Distraint Sale Mobile Home | Failed |
| SB24-144 | Real Property Valuation | Failed |
| SB24-183 | Mobile Home Taxation Task Force | Sent to governor |
Colorado Architecture News | 05.15.24
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 05.15.24
In this Newsletter:
- Design + Honor Awards submission deadline is this Friday at 5pm
- Resilience/Adaptation update
- Inaugural “Design Like a Girl” workshop series wrap up
- Jeopardy CEU and Happy Hour in Fort Collins May 16th
- 16th St Mall renovation tour May 16th
- Buy Clean Colorado – A Practitioners’ Perspective event May 21st
- Happy hour in Boulder May 23rd
- The Future of Local Sustainability Codes May 30th
- National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Tour May 31st
- Member News
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight
AIA COLORADO NEWS
Resilience/Adaptation update: Climate Justice and Disaster Recovery
When architects engage in disaster recovery efforts, technical expertise gets the most attention for how we can contribute to the process. This is no accident; AIA’s Safety Assessment Program (SAP) prepares architects to participate in rapid building assessment in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. These efforts are vital to helping local governments understand the magnitude of a disaster, where to prioritize their efforts, and determine if residents can return to their homes. Consider an invitation to get SAP trained and consider new ways to apply your skills—in the wake of weather events and more.
Read the article by Nikolaus Remus, AIA, AIA Colorado’s Advocacy Engagement Director.
Inaugural “Design Like a Girl” workshop series concludes
AIA Colorado’s J.E.D.I. Committee is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the inaugural Colorado “Design Like a Girl” (DLAG) workshop series. ‘Design Like a Girl’ aims to inspire the next generation of female-identifying designers by organizing full day design workshops for middle school students. Local architecture, design, and engineering professionals volunteer as mentors to guide, instruct, and inspire the young designers. The final workshop, which focused on interior architecture and sustainability, took place on Friday, April 19th at CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning.
Read about the third workshop and the series here.
AIA Colorado Events
CEU jeopardy game and happy hour in Fort Collins
May 16th, join members in the North at Odell Brewing’s Community Room in Fort Collins for a fun and interactive jeopardy style game discussing basic hardware while earning 1 HSW|LU with Allegion. Followed by happy hour.
RSVP here
16th St Mall renovation tour
Tomorrow, May 16th, Stantec and Dig Studios will conduct a 20-minute introduction and overview of the renovation of the historic 16th St Mall, followed by a walking tour to highlight the various stages of construction of the mall. The tour and presentation will focus on the various systems being introduced along this historic corridor to improve drainage, tree health, longevity of the paver system being implemented, and the overall urban design strategy. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
RSVP here
Buy Clean Colorado – A Practitioners’ Perspective
The Colorado Buy Clean Colorado Act establishes maximum acceptable global warming potential limits for certain building materials used in state-funded construction projects administered by the Office of the State Architect. Tuesday, May 21st, at 7:30am, join AIA–AGC–ACEC Colorado Liaison Committee (A3LC) to learn more about this new legislation that went into effect January 1st of 2024. The presentation will include an overview of the act, why it was created, what it covers, how to comply, “is it enough?”, and future directions. This free event is only available to AIA members.
RSVP here
Happy Hour in Boulder
Thursday, May 23rd, join AIA members and prospective members on the rooftop at Avanti for a social happy hour with your fellow design industry professionals. Food and drink available for purchase. See you there!
RSVP here
The Future of Local Sustainability Codes
Thursday May 30th, join members in the West for a panel discussion and Q&A opportunity with Roaring Fork building officials, construction industry leaders, and elected officials about the current state and future goals for sustainability codes. This panel event is a forum to discuss what’s working, and how construction industry professionals can be a part of the next steps.
RSVP here
National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Private Group Tour
Friday May 31st, join AIA members in the North for a private tour covering the architectural history of the iconic NCAR Mesa Laboratory, designed by modernist architect, I.M. Pei. The building was completed in 1966, and in 1997 received the AIA Colorado Twenty-five Year Award. The tour will also cover the atmospheric science, climate science, and current research being conducted at the National Science Foundation NCAR.
RSVP here
Upcoming events in June:
- Business of Architecture Roundtable: Contracts + Legal Documents • June 4 (new location)
- Colorado Night at AIA24 • June 6
- West Virtual Connect • June 11
- Metro Denver Economic Outlook • June 12
- Populus tour at 10am and tour at 11:30am • June 24
- Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code Overview • June 28
Member News
Sarah Goldblatt, AIA, was recently honored with the DPS Career Development Company Advocate of the Year award for her volunteer work to advance career exploration, specifically architecture, including the Design Like a Girl architectural workshops, Coach mentorship, and numerous guest speaker appearances.
Raphael Chavez, AIA, was honored by DPS with the Perennial Partner of the Year award, recognizing his work over the past ten years to offer career exploration events and host interns creating a unique learning opportunity that has been replicated year after year.
Congratulations to Sarah and Raphael for the much deserved recognition!
HOK expands Denver architecture and design studio as the Colorado office moves to a larger studio to support increased staff and better serve clients throughout the Mountain States. Hear from Ana-Maria Drughi, AIA, and her colleagues about the studio’s rapid growth and their vision for HOK’s future in the region.
Davis Partnership Architects has announced new leadership across multiple areas of the firm. Congratulations to Patrick Lee, AIA, who assumes the role of Director of Design and to Ryan Estes, AIA, Jonathan Fertig, AIA, John Glenn, AIA, Mark Hageman, AIA, Evan Miller, AIA, Anthony Mitchell, and Dominic Senska, who have been promoted to Senior Associates or Associates within their respective specialties in the Architecture Studio.
NEWS AT NATIONAL
AIA24
We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year!
Colorado Night at AIA24
Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!
AIA announces Global Campus for Architecture & Design
The AIA headquarters building renewal is a once-in-a-generation project that addresses the urgent need for climate action and will dramatically transform the user experience for staff, members, and visitors. Read at AIA
Premier Partner at AIA24
Discover the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), a leading authority in structural steel design and innovation since 1921. For over a century, AISC has set the standards for steel construction and continues to drive industry advancements. Visit us at booth 1319 during the AIA 24 conference in Washington, D.C., next month to explore our new Architecture Center and learn about the wealth of resources available to architects. Join AISC’s speaking session and tour at AIA 24, DC.
Have questions about designing with structural steel? Look no further! AISC’s Designing with Structural Steel: A Guide for Architects is a resource, straight from the technical experts who write Chapter 22 (Steel) of the International Building Code. It offers a comprehensive look at designing your next project with a structural steel framing system, from sound isolation and architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) to sustainability and resilience.
Elevate your projects with steel. Click here to learn more about AISC and the invaluable resources available to architects.
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.
Helpful Links:
Save the Dates:
- 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
- 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.
Inaugural “Design Like a Girl” Workshop Series Concludes
AIA Colorado’s J.E.D.I. Committee is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the inaugural Colorado “Design Like a Girl” (DLAG) workshop series.
The program, originally founded in Washington, D.C., by the Washington Architectural Foundation and was brought to Colorado through the inspiration and hard work of Sarah Goldblatt, AIA, and Britany Soler, Assoc. AIA, with the support of the AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. Committee. ‘Design Like a Girl’ aims to inspire the next generation of female-identifying designers by organizing full day design workshops for middle school students. Local architecture, design, and engineering professionals volunteer as mentors to guide, instruct, and inspire the young designers.
The first and second workshops in the three-part series focused on architecture and engineering. The final workshop, which focused on interior Architecture and sustainability, took place on Friday, April 19th at CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning.
The day began with an introduction to the role of Interior Architects and designers and how they shape space through creative uses of building elements, furniture, color, and materials. Aided by a diverse library of materials donated by mentors, the girls crafted their own color palette.
Following the color exploration, CAP alumna, Jenny Arzberger of JARZ Design Studio, whose work focuses on creating safe and calming spaces for neurodivergent children and teens, shared her design process, from selecting inspirational imagery to conveying her ideas to clients, and gave the girls a sneak peek of renderings for an upcoming interior design project at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.
Claire Messer, a CU Denver CAP student and president of the school’s All for Women in Architecture (AFWIA) chapter, provided an engaging tour of the School’s studios and fabrication labs, providing a glimpse into the future if the girls decide to pursue a design education.
After a quick introduction to sustainable materials and biophilic design, the second half of the day was dedicated to a wellness space design project. The girls first created inspiration boards and then moved to carefully constructing models of their chosen wellness program, using material, color, and furniture to define space. Some models featured elements of biophilic design using materials the girls had brought in from their own backyards. A final presentation allowed the girls to present their work in front of the group.
This workshop series would not have been possible without the collaboration of Sondra Osif and the whole team at the Spark Early Career Exploration Program at Denver Public Schools, who recruited students through an application process, organized transportation for the girls, and provided on-site support.
Get Involved
Planning is already underway for next year’s round of workshops. If you, or your firm, is interested in getting involved with the program, please reach out to Brittany Soler, Assoc. AIA, or Sarah Goldblatt, AIA.
Thank you
The leaders of the workshop would like to extend their gratitude to the mentors who helped make this final workshop a success:
- Anna Friedrich, Assoc. AIA
- Sarah Goldblatt, AIA
- Brittany Soler, Assoc. AIA
- Gabriella Wakulchik, AIA
- Courtney Minter, AIA
- Kitty Yuen, AIA
- Claire Messer
- Jenny Arzberger
- Beth Cook
Special Thanks to:
- Joanna Schmickel, FAIA, CGS Architects
- Our Guest Speakers:
- Jenny Arzberger, ASID, JARZ Design Studio
- Clare Messer, CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning M.ARCH student, All for Women in Architecture (AFWIA) Chapter President
- AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. Committee
- NOMA Colorado
- Sondra Osif with Spark Early Career Exploration Program, Denver Public Schools
- Washington Architectural Foundation (WAF)
- District Architecture Center (DAC)
- CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning
- Workshop Host
- Rowland & Broughton: Architecture & Interior Design
- Lunch Sponsor
AIA Colorado CKLDP 2024 – Spring Recap
AIA’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program provides participants the opportunity to form a cohort with other emerging professionals in the field of architecture (sixteen are selected each year from a group of well-qualified applicants), developing their skills on several focused topics in the once-a-month sessions throughout the year. The program honors Christopher Kelley’s legacy, an influential architect in the Washington D.C. community and an advocate for furthering the profession through mentorship. The program originated in Washington D.C., however local chapters now exist across the country, with additional chapters continuing to be established each year (Colorado’s first program year was 2017).
The program is well underway in its eighth year, with Bootcamp, Sessions 1 and 2 having occurred, where participants engaged in knowledge sharing from industry experts, team building and collaborative activities, and overall improving upon their professional skills. See below for a summary and highlights of the events thus far.
Bootcamp
Date + Location
- January 19, 2024
- AlA Colorado – The Alliance Center
Speakers
- Rachel Yee, AIA, NCARB, EDAC – Architect, Founder of CKLDP Colorado Chapter, and former President of AIA Colorado
- Jamie Perkins – Communications Consultant, Jackalope Strategy
- Rebekah Wagoner, AIA – Architect, CKLDP Colorado Alumni and Former Chair, AIA Colorado Young Architect of the Year 2024
Organizers
- CKLDP Colorado Executive Committee
This year’s program started with the “bootcamp session” hosted by AIA Colorado at The Alliance Center. Scholars (program participants) introduced themselves PechaKucha style, met the executive committee and learned the program’s expectations and responsibilities for the year to come. They were joined by guest speakers Rachel Yee, AIA, and Rebekah Wagoner, AIA, who were both able to share their experiences with CKLDP, some history of the program, and their advice to emerging professionals in the field of architecture. The session also included a workshop led by Jame Perkins of Jackalope Strategy to set group norms around values, decisions making, conflict resolution, meetings and communication/tools to be applied throughout the year.
Session 1
Management + Mentorship
Date + Location
- March 8, 2024
- McCarthy Construction
Speakers:
- Michele Raftery, FSMPS, CPSM, WELL AP – Principal and Partner 4240 Architecture
- Rick Peterson, FAIA, LEED AP – Principal Oz Architecture; Geneva Kowalski, NCARB, LEED AP, CPHT – Principal and Partner Studio K2 Architecture
- Todd Afflerbaugh, RA, LEED AP – Senior Associate BVH Architecture
- Bob Binder, AIA, LEED AP BD + C – SW Region Leader DLR Group; Katelyn Wager, PE – Commercial Division Leader EVstudio Structural Engineering
- Jordan Swisher – Commercial Real Estate Brue Baukol; Jason Coughlin – VP of Operations McCarthy Constructions
Organizers
- Hannah Hobbs, AIA, and Mackenzie Huber, AIA
The first session hosted by scholar pairing Hannah Hobbs, AIA, and Mackenzie Huber, AIA, included presentations by architectural leaders and principals in our local community covering topics such as the importance of active listening in leadership, improving interpersonal connections, balancing the team, client and architectural design stakeholders in projects, creating a supportive environment, and informal/formal mentorship. The session wrapped up with a panel comprised of representatives from the A/E industry where participants discussed their experiences with mentorship, where the relationships and benefits to be had, go both ways.
Session 2
Equity, Diversity + Inclusion
Date + Location
- April 12, 2024
- DLR Group
Speakers:
- Tom I. Romero II, Ph.D, J.D. – Director of Interdisciplinary Research Institute for the Study of (in)Equality at the University of Denver
- Brian J. Fagerstrom, AIA, Inupiaq – Founder and CEO Amaktoolik Studios
- Adriana Medina-López-Portillo, Ph.D, CMC, ELI-MP Founder and CEO Pangea Training
- Summer Westbrooks – Owner and CEO Aloha Spirit Marketing
- Jessica Bantom – Global Leader of Equity, Diversity, and Belonging DLR Group, Interior Design consultant
Organizers
- Wei Zhao, AIA, and Ash Baldwin, AIA
The second session, hosted by Wei Zhao, AIA, and Ash Baldwin, AIA, focused on ways to be more inclusive as a design professional and how to better understand others’ perspectives, unpacking biases within ourselves and the industry. The session began with “A Brief History of the Color Line in Colorado” by Dr. Tom Romero, discussing architecture’s connection to the land, organization by law, the history and recognizing impacts. The second speaker, Brian Fagerstrom, AIA, shared the Native American land perspective, and one particular project, where a large effort was made to bring together more than 30 tribes from six states to be consulted prior to the start of design for Fishers Peak State Park. Adriana Medina-López-Portillo facilitated a workshop with Summer Westbrooks to unpack how explicit and implicit biases occur. Jessica Bantom presented “6 Habits of Culturally Competent Designers”, reminding the group that consistent effort is needed to embody cultural competence. Lastly, the session wrapped up with a Safe Place Discussion, asking “Where do we go from here?” joined by members of the AIA Colorado JEDI Committee.
Colorado Architecture News | 05.01.24
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 05.01.24
In this Newsletter:
- Licensing renewal bill heads to Governor
- Practice Resources for Emerging Professionals
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions May 3rd
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions May 3rd
- Jeopardy CEU and Happy Hour in Fort Collins May 16th
- The Future of Local Sustainability Codes May 30th
- National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Tour May 31st
- Member News
- Denver Art Museum events
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight
AIA COLORADO NEWS
Licensing renewal bill for Architects, Professional Engineers, and Land Surveyors heads to Governor
We’re pleased to announce that the bill reauthorizing our practice act is on its way to Governor Polis for his signature! Changes between the new and current law are minimal, focusing on administrative procedures, cleaning up outdated language, and creating continuing education requirements for land surveyors. The practice of architecture itself (alongside the practices of engineering and land surveying) will retain current definitions and scope. Our next sunset review, required periodically for all licensed professionals in Colorado, will be in nine years.
Practice Resources for Emerging Professionals
Are you new to the profession and looking for tools and resources? The AIA Colorado website has new resource page specifically created for you. Use this page as an FAQ and resource listing to find questions and uncover answers and suggestions as you roll up your sleeves and dive in. If you have a question that isn’t answered or know of a resource that needs to be added, share it using the form at the bottom of the page!
Also, join a study group! Organized by the J.E.D.I. committee, meet up with others who are studying for the same tests. More info here.
AIA Colorado Events
Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the commercial provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will focus on those provisions that have the highest impact on a building’s energy efficiency as we look at what has changed in the code. Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here
Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the residential provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will look at the different ways to navigate through the code, highlighting all of the flexibility built in so that designers, builders, and homeowners have more options of how to meet the end goal of an energy efficient and resilient building.Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here
CEU jeopardy game and happy hour in Fort Collins
May 16th, join members in the North at Odell Brewing’s Community Room in Fort Collins for a fun and interactive jeopardy style game discussing basic hardware while earning 1 HSW|LU with Allegion. Followed by happy hour.
RSVP here
The Future of Local Sustainability Codes
Thursday May 30th, join members in the West for a panel discussion and Q&A opportunity with Roaring Fork building officials, construction industry leaders, and elected officials about the current state and future goals for sustainability codes. This panel event is a forum to discuss what’s working, and how construction industry professionals can be a part of the next steps.
RSVP here
National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Private Group Tour
Friday May 31st, join AIA members in the North for a private tour covering the architectural history of the iconic NCAR Mesa Laboratory, designed by modernist architect, I.M. Pei. The building was completed in 1966, and in 1997 received the AIA Colorado Twenty-five Year Award. The tour will also cover the atmospheric science, climate science, and current research being conducted at the National Science Foundation NCAR.
RSVP here
Upcoming events in June:
- Business of Architecture Roundtable: Contracts + Legal Documents • June 4
- Colorado Night at AIA24 • June 6
- West Virtual Connect • June 11
- Metro Denver Economic Outlook • June 12
- Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code Overview • June 28
Member News
Joey Pruett, AIA, of A21 Architecture, recently discussed how he got his start in the Swiss Alps and the influences that have shaped his work in an interview with Angelbau.
Anderson Hallas Architects announces that Laine McLaughlin, AIA, has been promoted to Senior Project Manager. Congrats, Laine!
PARTNER NEWS AND EVENTS
Upcoming events at Denver Art Museum:
- Talk with Dixon Lu, Associate Partner of MAD Architects. May 4, 2024 – 11am–12 pm. Dixon Lu serves as an Associate Partner at MAD Architects’ Los Angeles office and has overseen the management of the firm’s U.S. projects, including One River North, presently in construction in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. Buy tickets here.
- Luncheon By Design 2024, May 9, 2024 – 11:30 am–1:30 pm, in celebration of the upcoming exhibition Biophilia: Nature Reimagined, features a presentation by Jeanne Gang, FAIA, founding partner of Studio Gang, whose projects include Denver’s new Populus hotel. Buy tickets here.
NEWS AT NATIONAL
AIA24
We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year!
Colorado Night at AIA24
Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!
Architecture firm billings retreat further in March
The AIA/Deltek Architectural Billings Index (ABI) March score declined to 43.6. This marked the 14th consecutive month of declining billings at firms as inflation, supply chain issues, and other economic challenges continue to affect business. Read at AIA.
Premier Partner at AIA24
Discover the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), a leading authority in structural steel design and innovation since 1921. For over a century, AISC has set the standards for steel construction and continues to drive industry advancements. Visit us at booth 1319 during the AIA 24 conference in Washington, D.C., next month to explore our new Architecture Center and learn about the wealth of resources available to architects.
Have questions about designing with structural steel? Look no further! AISC’s Designing with Structural Steel: A Guide for Architects is a resource, straight from the technical experts who write Chapter 22 (Steel) of the International Building Code. It offers a comprehensive look at designing your next project with a structural steel framing system, from sound isolation and architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) to sustainability and resilience.
Elevate your projects with steel. Click here to learn more about AISC and the invaluable resources available to architects.
Premier Partner Events
Executing low-carbon concrete symposium
Explore currently available means and methods contractors and ready mix producers can take to achieve the project carbon targets set by developers architects, engineers, and policymakers to reduce the embodied carbon of concrete. Join National Ready Mixed Concrete Association for a day of education, discussion, and networking to explore the current state of the market and identify opportunities to collaborate on implementing low-carbon concrete solutions. Earn 6 AIA-CES HSW Learning Units.
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.
Helpful Links:
Save the Dates:
- 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
- 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.
Colorado Architecture News | 04.17.24
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 04.17.24
In this Newsletter:
- New Design Award Category
- AEF announcing Travel Scholarships recipients
- A Roadmap for Decarbonizing Building Assets in Denver and Colorado April 18th
- Farm and Market tour April 25th
- Awards Information Session April 30th
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions May 3rd
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions May 3rd
- The Future of Local Sustainability Codes May 30th
- National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Tour May 31st
- Architect-ing Podcast episodes
- Denver Art Museum events
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight
- Premier Partner and Allied member events
AIA COLORADO NEWS
Announcing a new design award category!
Introduced and active in this 2024 awards cycle, the awards committee is pleased to announce the Research & Development Award! This new award seeks to celebrate the work that we do that doesn’t fall into traditional categories of built (or even unbuilt) projects. It recognizes the investigations that forward the art and science of Architecture.
“So what sort of things would fit into this category?” A comparative study of embodied carbon in your project. Pioneering a new product or material assembly. Creating original building forms or performance using cutting edge modeling technology. Studying or improving fire resistance in envelop design. Or creating a new building code to reflect those ignition resistant design strategies. More examples can include fabrication, building components or systems, sustainable strategies, construction details, design process, social/community impact, and research-focused faculty or student work.
Learn more about this new design award category today as you continue working on your own submissions. If you have questions about your own submissions, join us April 30th for an informational session. The deadline to apply for the Design + Honor Awards is rapidly approaching and we can’t encourage you enough to not wait until the last minute!
The Architectural Education Foundation, in partnership with AIA Colorado, offers traveling and professional development scholarships to support educational and experiential endeavors. While academic awards will be announced by the respective campuses, we would like to congratulate the following recipients of the 2024 Architectural Educational Foundation Travel Scholarships:
- Pratiksha Achari, Assoc. AIA – Virginia E. and Robert K. Fuller, AIA, Traveling Scholarship and Hobart D. Wagener, FAIA, Traveling Scholarship
- Joel Miller, AIA – Virginia E. and Robert K. Fuller, AIA, Traveling Scholarship
- Jenny Smith, AIA – Florence G. and Arthur A. Fisher, FAIA, Traveling Scholarship
- Bunny Tucker, AIA – Hobart D. Wagener, FAIA, Traveling Scholarship
Last week, members enjoyed a tour of Louie Louie’s Piano Bar in Colorado Springs. Thank you to Echo Architecture + Interiors for leading the tour as well as our South Advisors Joey Bahnsen, AIA, and Tyler Wurr, AIA!
AIA Colorado Events
A Roadmap for Decarbonizing Building Assets in Denver and Colorado
Thursday, April 18th, attend an overview of the process of decarbonizing buildings, with a focus on meeting benchmarking and building performance standards requirements for Denver and Colorado. Discussion will include the workflow needed to provide the planning, analysis, funding, and scheduling required to meet 2030 targets for energy-use and/or greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
RSVP here
Farm and Market tour
Thursday, April 25th, join Denver AIA members, OZ Architecture, and Farm and Market owners for a tour of the unique neighborhood farm, restaurant, and market.
RSVP here
2024 Awards Information Session
Have questions about the Awards submission process? Join us Tuesday, April 30th at Noon, for an informational session to answer questions you may have about the submission process.
RSVP here
Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the commercial provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will focus on those provisions that have the highest impact on a building’s energy efficiency as we look at what has changed in the code. Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here
Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the residential provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will look at the different ways to navigate through the code, highlighting all of the flexibility built in so that designers, builders, and homeowners have more options of how to meet the end goal of an energy efficient and resilient building.Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here
The Future of Local Sustainability Codes
Thursday May 30th, join members in the West for a panel discussion and Q&A opportunity with Roaring Fork building officials, construction industry leaders, and elected officials about the current state and future goals for sustainability codes. This panel event is a forum to discuss what’s working, and how construction industry professionals can be a part of the next steps.
RSVP here
National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Private Group Tour
Friday May 31st, join AIA members in the North for a private tour covering the architectural history of the iconic NCAR Mesa Laboratory, designed by modernist architect, I.M. Pei. The building was completed in 1966, and in 1997 received the AIA Colorado Twenty-five Year Award. The tour will also cover the atmospheric science, climate science, and current research being conducted at the National Science Foundation NCAR.
RSVP here
Upcoming events in June:
- Business of Architecture Roundtable: Contracts + Legal Documents • June 4
- Colorado Night at AIA24 • June 6
- West Virtual Connect • June 11
- Metro Denver Economic Outlook • June 12
- Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code Overview • June 28
Member News
Recent Architect-ing Podcasts
- Harvey Hine, AIA, of HMH Architecture + Interiors joins host and Colorado architect Adam Wagoner, AIA, on a recent episode. Harvey shares about his life experiences that have led him to his career in architecture, including his experiences growing up in Vienna, Austria, and emphasizes the importance of intuition in architecture and shares his thoughts on the role of artificial intelligence in the industry.
- Morgan Law and Steve Scribner, AIA, of Shape Architecture join Adam Wagoner, AIA, discussing their unique approach to sustainability, including Passive House and Net Zero concepts. The two delve into their personal and professional journeys sharing their unique paths from construction to architecture.
- Listen to episodes at: Apple Podcast • Spotify • Amazon Music • Pandora • Castbox
“If downtown Denver building owners convert empty offices to residential, will people move in?” Gensler’s Denver office has worked with the City of Denver towards converting underutilized offices into apartments and you can read about it at the Colorado Sun.
PARTNER NEWS AND EVENTS
Upcoming events at Denver Art Museum:
- Talk with Dixon Lu, Associate Partner of MAD Architects. May 4, 2024 – 11am–12 pm. Dixon Lu serves as an Associate Partner at MAD Architects’ Los Angeles office and has overseen the management of the firm’s U.S. projects, including One River North, presently in construction in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. Buy tickets here.
- Luncheon By Design 2024, May 9, 2024 – 11:30 am–1:30 pm, in celebration of the upcoming exhibition Biophilia: Nature Reimagined, features a presentation by Jeanne Gang, FAIA, founding partner of Studio Gang, whose projects include Denver’s new Populus hotel. Buy tickets here.
NEWS AT NATIONAL
AIA24
We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year!
Colorado Night at AIA24
Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!
Young Architects Forum April Newsletter
A newsletter from the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF). Look out for important news, AIA updates, and ways to engage, no biggie. Read more
Premier Partner Spotlight
We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, KL&A Engineers and Builders, and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community.
KL&A is a firm built around the idea that structural engineers should return to a master builder role by taking ownership of structural systems. A collaborative approach and project centric behaviors are our differentiators, facilitating a more engaging design and construction process. Our philosophy of personal responsibility has generated a corporate culture of problem solving and innovation. We are engineers first and foremost, which we leverage on our steel detailing and steel construction projects. We also take great pride in our sustainability efforts, utilizing mass timber to minimize embodied carbon in our structures, and providing Life Cycle Assessments on our committed projects.
Learn More about KL&A Engineers and Builders.
Premier Partner Events
Executing low-carbon concrete symposium
Explore currently available means and methods contractors and ready mix producers can take to achieve the project carbon targets set by developers architects, engineers, and policymakers to reduce the embodied carbon of concrete. Join National Ready Mixed Concrete Association for a day of education, discussion, and networking to explore the current state of the market and identify opportunities to collaborate on implementing low-carbon concrete solutions. Earn 6 AIA-CES HSW Learning Units.
Active shooter tabletop exercise
Wednesday, April 24th from 1 – 5pm, join IMEG for an Active Shooter Tabletop Exercise, where you’ll collaborate with colleagues to navigate through a scenario, identifying roles, evaluating response plans, and creating personalized crisis management roadmaps. This AIA-approved event aims to enhance safety and preparedness in emergent situations, offering 3.5 LU/HSWs credits.
Looking for Additional Resources?
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.
Helpful Links:
Save the Dates:
- 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
- 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.
Colorado Architecture News | 04.03.24
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 04.03.24
In this Newsletter:
- Membership Matters
- New Housing Committee applications available
- AAH/ACHA Summer Leadership Summit – call for project tour nominations
- Meet the Jurors for the 2024 Design Awards
- Code Class: Accessibility Update April 5th
- Louie Louie’s Piano Bar tour April 11th
- A Roadmap for Decarbonizing Building Assets in Denver and Colorado April 18th
- Farm and Market tour
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions May 3rd
- Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions May 3rd
- CAP Spring lecture series
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight
- Premier Partner events
The Week in Words
Thank You for making 2023 such a great year, as well as for your continued involvement into this year. We had a record number of members, allied members, and premier partners last year and we’re grateful for your commitment to AIA Colorado’s mission: Elevating the architecture profession to design a more equitable, sustainable, and beautiful Colorado.
AIA COLORADO NEWS
Update on HB24-1329: Sunset Architects Engineers & Land Surveyors
We’re pleased to announce that our sunset bill has passed in the House where it was introduced. During the bill’s committee hearing, 2024 president Julianne Scherer, AIA, offered testimony in support of the bill from the perspective of a firm principal. Past AIA Colorado board member and current National Associates Committee representative, Kari Lawson, AIA, spoke to her experience as a recently licensed architect. Government Affairs Committee secretary Brittany Goldsmith, Assoc. AIA, spoke to how one qualifies to begin taking the licensing exams. This strong team of members effectively covered all the points we wanted to make on the importance of licensing architects. Now, we have to repeat the same process in the Senate where the next committee hearing is scheduled later this month.
Seeking applicants for new Housing Committee
A new AIA Colorado Housing Committee is launching this Spring that will focus on Colorado’s unprecedented and complex housing crisis. This new committee will meet regularly and seek to lay the groundwork so our association can lead and be responsive to equitable housing solutions. The deadline to apply is April 14th. Read more about the committee, its goals for 2024, and apply today!
AAH/ACHA Summer Leadership Summit – call for project tour nominations
The AIA Academy of Architecture for Health is pleased to announce that for the first time, the annual Summer Leadership Summit (SLS) will be held in Denver this year from July 26-28th. This conference, jointly hosted by the AAH and ACHA (American College of Healthcare Architects), brings together approximately 200 leaders in healthcare design from the U.S. and around the world for two days of presentations and panel discussions addressing the forces that shape the future of healthcare. Each year, the final day of the conference (Sunday, July 28th) is reserved for project tours of healthcare facilities in the area. If your firm would like to submit a project for consideration, please follow the link to learn more and submit an application. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 12th, at 5pm.
Meet the Jurors for the 2024 Design Awards
The Awards Committee is thrilled to introduce our esteemed 2024 Design Awards jury lineup and we anticipate their review of your exceptional work during AIA24 in Washington, D.C. this June. We’ve assembled a dynamic group of industry leaders renowned for their expertise, diversity of practices, and global perspectives. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and shared values sets a remarkable standard.
AIA Colorado Events
Code Class: 2021 Accessibility Update
Friday, April 5th, join this seminar that will discuss the changes to Chapter 11 of the 2021 IBC and the 2017 ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard. Class will meet at Galvanize Boulder and please sign up through Eventbrite in advance.
Louie’s Louie’s Piano Bar tour
Thursday, April 11th, join members in the South for a tour in the “Trolley Block”, a recent rehabilitation of the historic trolley maintenance facility located on South Tejon between Cimmaron and Moreno. Tour led by Echo Architecture.
A Roadmap for Decarbonizing Building Assets in Denver and Colorado
Thursday, April 18th, attend an overview of the process of decarbonizing buildings, with a focus on meeting benchmarking and building performance standards requirements for Denver and Colorado. Discussion will include the workflow needed to provide the planning, analysis, funding, and scheduling required to meet 2030 targets for energy-use and/or greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
Farm and Market tour
Thursday, April 25th, join Denver AIA members, OZ Architecture, and Farm and Market owners for a tour of the unique neighborhood farm, restaurant, and market.
Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the commercial provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will focus on those provisions that have the highest impact on a building’s energy efficiency as we look at what has changed in the code. Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions
May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the residential provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will look at the different ways to navigate through the code, highlighting all of the flexibility built in so that designers, builders, and homeowners have more options of how to meet the end goal of an energy efficient and resilient building.Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
PARTNER NEWS AND EVENTS
Upcoming CAP Spring lecture series
- Ken Andrews, AIA, Arch11, Principal Architect Monday April 8, 12pm
- Amaia Sanchez-Velasco, Jorge Valiente Oriol, and Gonzalo Valiente Oriol, Grandeza Studio, Co-Principals Wednesday April 17, 12pm
Lectures are held at the Second Floor Gallery, CU Denver. More info and RSVP here.
NEWS AT NATIONAL
AIA’s Year in Review 2023
Explore important AIA firsts, expanded membership demographics, community developments, advocacy wins, key organization milestones, awards given and received, and more in AIA’s annual review. See at AIA
ABI February 2024: Pace of billings decline continues to slow
Although architecture firm billings declined for the thirteenth consecutive month in February, the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score of 49.5 for the month means that the share of firms reporting a decline in billings was nearly equal to the share of firms that reported an increase in billings. Read more at AIA
2024 AIA Future Forward grant
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. Application deadline is April 19th. Learn more
AIA announces winners of the 2024 Associates Award
AIA has selected five recipients for the AIA Associates Award. The Associates Award is given to individual Associate AIA members to recognize outstanding leaders and creative thinkers for significant contributions to their communities and the architecture profession. Read more at AIA
AIA announces recipients for the Young Architects Award 2024
AIA has selected 30 recipients for the AIA Young Architects Award. The AIA Young Architects Award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the architecture profession early in their careers. Complete details for each recipient are available online. Read more at AIA
AIA24
Early registration is available through April 10th for this year’s AIA Conference on Architecture Design, taking place June 5–8. AIA24 will bring together the often-siloed AEC industry in Washington, D.C. to network, share knowledge, gain exposure, and find multidisciplinary solutions to today’s most pressing issues. View conference website
Colorado Night at AIA24
Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!
Premier Partner Spotlight
We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community.
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), headquartered in Chicago, is a non-partisan, not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States. AISC’s mission is to make structural steel the material of choice by being the leader in structural-steel-related technical and market-building activities, including specification and code development, research, education, technical assistance, quality certification, standardization, market development, and advocacy. AISC has a long tradition of service to the steel construction industry providing timely and reliable information.
Learn More about The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
Premier Partner Events
Active shooter tabletop exercise
Wednesday, April 24th from 1 – 5pm, join IMEG for an Active Shooter Tabletop Exercise, where you’ll collaborate with colleagues to navigate through a scenario, identifying roles, evaluating response plans, and creating personalized crisis management roadmaps. This AIA-approved event aims to enhance safety and preparedness in emergent situations, offering 3.5 LU/HSWs credits.
Looking for Additional Resources?
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.
Helpful Links:
Save the Dates:
- 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station.
- 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO.
Meet the 2024 Design Award Jury
Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program: Session 1 Recap
Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
Session Date: 3/8/2024
Location: McCarthy Construction Denver Office
Hosted by: Hannah Hobbs & Mackenzie Huber
Recap written up by: Kari Lawson & Caleb Leftin
Recap
Session 1: Management & Mentorship
Session Description
- Define elements & importance of active listening
- Describe key ways to manage an effective team
- Define importance of mentorship
- Discuss different ways mentorship can show up throughout the A/E industry
Key Takeaways
- Key Takeaway 1
- Active listening, crucial for job success and relationship quality, involves attentiveness and understanding verbal and non-verbal cues to foster trust and empathy. Overcoming barriers and adopting strategies for effective listening can enhance communication and interpersonal connections.
- Key Takeaway 2
- Effective team management hinges on fostering empathy, agency, and accountability, along with clear expectations and goals, to cultivate ownership and pride. Addressing common issues like unmet expectations and role mismatches through strategic communication and empowerment is crucial for creating a supportive and successful team environment.
- Key Takeaway 3
- Mentorship can show up in many different forms. It is up to the individual seeking mentorship to know what is right for them, and to be dedicated to learning, personal, and career growth. A mentor is an invaluable resource throughout one’s career.
Resources
- Edgar Dales Cone of Experience
- Maslow Hierachy of Needs
- Linda Phillips-Jones Meente’s Guide & Mentor’s Guide
- Emotional Intelligence 2.0
Key ways to manage an effective team
- Build empathy. Care about who you are working with – and for.
- Agency + accountability = Ownership.
- Clearly state expectations. People can’t read minds.
- Clearly state goals. Design parti, project vision, and defining principles.
Listening to Learn: A Pathway to Rewarding Leadership
Michele Raftery, a partner/principal at 4240 Architecture, shared her insight and wisdom on active listening. Effective listening is key to job performance and enhancing relationships. It’s a critical but often overlooked skill necessary for information gathering, understanding, and learning. Edgar Dale’s ‘Cone of Experience’ shows we remember only 20%-50% of what we hear, underlining the importance of active listening. This involves attentiveness, minimizing distractions, understanding verbal and nonverbal cues, and engaging with the speaker through questions and clarifications.
Active listening fosters trust and empathy, essential for building strong relationships. Recognizing and overcoming barriers like environmental distractions and personal biases can improve listening skills. Strategies to enhance active listening include embracing positive habits, conducting self-checks, and actively seeking feedback to foster a culture of open communication.
Addressing personal needs as outlined in Maslow’s Hierarchy can also prepare individuals for better listening, making it a cornerstone of effective teamwork and interpersonal connections.
Managing the Trifecta: Teams, Projects, and Clients
Rick Peterson, FAIA, Principal at OZ Architecture, led a presentation with refreshing candor on what it takes to balance the moving targets of project relationships. Managing a successful team requires a balance of empathy, agency, and accountability, fostering a sense of ownership among team members. Setting clear expectations and goals is essential. Addressing issues. Effectively involves taking responsibility, careful scheduling to avoid overcommitment, and empowering team members to take ownership and feel proud of their work. Effective communication and collaboration, especially in person, create an atmosphere of opportunity and enjoyment, aiming to make everyone successful. Common challenges include misplaced optimism by architects, unmet expectations, and mismatches of roles or team dynamics, such as having the right people in the wrong seats or incompatible team members. Overcoming these hurdles through strategic management and a supportive environment is key to team effectiveness.
The Importance of Mentorship
Geneva Kowalski, the principal and majority partner at Studio K2 Architecture highlighted the importance of mentorship by telling her story of different mentors she’s had over the years.
Mentorship can show up in many different ways – it can be a formal program set up by a workplace or it can be sought out and doesn’t have to be as defined or rigid of a relationship. Relationships outside of the mentee’s firm can be equally or more important, and can be someone in a professional organization, or someone the mentee has worked with in the past.Sometimes a mentor can be someone that you are frequently meeting with and can help you with day-to-day question. Other times, a mentor can be someone that is only met with on occasion and can help with bigger-picture ideas and long-term career growth.Mentorship can have many benefits including knowledge transfer, help networking, giving constructive feedback, and helping with career and personal growth.
Panel: Differing Perspectives on Mentorship in the A/E Industry
The Panel consisted of 4 representatives of different aspects of the A/E industry: an architecture firm, A/E firm, General Contractor, and Developer. The panel was led by Todd Afflerbaugh, an architect at BVH. Todd asked many pointed questions about how mentorship showed up in each panelist’s own experience. The responses of panelists often paralleled each other, highlighting the importance of having someone to lean on during your career. Mentorship is not an everyday task, but something that is periodic. It differs from career management in the sense that it can provide personal guidance and a mentor can be an advocate for a mentee within their firm. Within firms, it can be important to have a formal structure in place, and a timeline established for the relationship so there can be a clean break if necessary, or the relationship can continue if desired. Important qualities of a mentee are being able to define their needs, asking critical questions, seeking honest feedback, and a desire to learn.A mentor-mentee relationship is always two-ways, and the mentor can learn from the mentee as well.