Author: Jon Bell

2024 Colorado Legislative Bills Tracked To Date

Posted on by Jon Bell

Published March 5, 2024

The 2024 legislative session is one of the most interesting for architects we’ve seen in years and we’ve only just hit the halfway point. AIA Colorado is taking positions on the following bills so far:

HB24-1008: Wage Claims Construction Industry Contractors

AIA position: Oppose/amend

Status: Passed in first committee hearing and scheduled for second committee hearing.

Details: This bill’s goal is to hold general contractors jointly and severally liable for unpaid wages of employees of their subcontractors. While this bill does not directly affect the architecture profession in most cases, there could be instances in joint ventures where architecture firms also assume the same liability as GC partners. We’re working with a broad construction industry coalition who oppose this bill as being unfair to GCs and harmful to small subcontractors who won’t be able to meet higher insurance policy requirements if this bill passes.

HB24-1091: Fire-Hardened Building Materials in Real Property

AIA position: Support

Status: Awaiting Governor’s signature

Details: During the Marshall Fire rebuild process, numerous residents within a homeowner association have been told that bylaws require flammable exterior building materials such as fences and roof materials in newly rebuilt homes. This bill will make such covenants, bylaws, etc. void as public policy and allow homeowners to use fire-hardened materials on their homes without requiring HOA permission.

SB24-106: Right to Remedy Construction Defects

AIA position: Support

Status: Awaiting vote in first committee hearing.

Details: Despite numerous attempts in previous years to address construction defect reform, condominiums in Colorado are almost entirely missing from new housing construction. This bill would strengthen right to remedy options by construction professionals (including architects) when a defect claim is made. This bill also requires a 2/3 vote and written consent instead of simple majority of unit owners to enter into a lawsuit on behalf of the entire community.

SB24-112: Construction Defect Action Procedures

AIA position: Amend

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: This bill has been presented as an alternative to SB24-106 with even greater restrictions on how HOAs can enter lawsuits. There is language in the bill as introduced that we feel is unfair towards architects moreso than other construction professionals. We’re working with the bill sponsor to amend this language out.

HB24-1125: Tax Credit Commercial Building Conversion

AIA position: Support via coalition

Status: Passed in first committee hearing and scheduled for second committee hearing.

Details: This bill would provide tax credits up to $3 million for successful commercial-to-residential building conversion project. While AIA Colorado supports this effort in concept, we have concerns about this bill’s ability to make projects pencil out or provide enough of an incentive for conversion projects to move forward.

HB24-1152: Accessory Dwelling Units

AIA position: Support

Status: Passed in first committee hearing and scheduled for second committee hearing.

Details: This bill would require most cities in a metropolitan planning organization to require single-family lots to allow one accessory dwelling unit to be built, subject to certain restrictions. Cities affected are in the four metro areas along the I-25 corridor and Grand Junction.

SB24-154: Accessory Dwelling Units

AIA position: Support

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: This bill compliments HB24-1152 but focuses on properties in unincorporated county land. It would allow accessory dwelling units in certain circumstances and also allow conversions of existing buildings to accessory dwelling units.

HB24-1329: Sunset Architects Engineers & Land Surveyors

AIA position: Support

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: This is the single most important bill to our profession! Architects are licensed by the state and every 8-12 years the state reviews a profession’s practice act. We participated in the state’s review last year and support all their recommendations for practice act updates. We’re well-positioned to get this practice act renewal bill across the finish line alongside our professional engineer and land surveyor colleagues.

HB24-1230: Protections for Real Property Owners

AIA position: Oppose

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: This bill would increase the timeframe to file a construction defect lawsuit from a 6-year statute of repose (timeframe to identify a construction defect) to 8 years. The statute of limitations (time to file a claim after a defect is discovered) would remain at 2 years. If this bill passes, architects are at risk of being named in defect lawsuits for up to 10 years instead of the current 8. We expect that this liability increase to affect insurance rates for projects of all types.

HB24-1239 Single-Exit Stairway Multifamily Structure

AIA position: Support/amend

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: Building codes typical limit single-stair multifamily residential buildings to 3 stories. In local jurisdictions across the country (Seattle in particular), these same buildings can be built to 5 or 6 stories, subject to additional safety measures and a local fire department’s ability to reach the top of the building with their equipment. This bill would require local jurisdictions in Colorado to adopt building code language to allow these taller single-family stairs. AIA Colorado will support this bill after discussion and additional clarification in the bill on what safety requirements will have to be included in new local codes.

Government Affairs Committee member Sean Jursnick, AIA, discussed the measure to allow taller single stair developments with the Denver Post.

HB24-1314 Modification Tax Credit Preservation Historic Structures

AIA position: Support

Status: Awaiting first committee hearing

Details: This bill is an expansion and extension of an existing historic preservation program that AIA Colorado previously supported. Updates include making it easier for homeowner to access these grants and expand eligibility to buildings at least 30 years old instead of 50 in current law. Other changes bring state tax credits into closer alignment with similar federal programs.

AIA Colorado meets with Colorado Congressional delegation

Posted on by Jon Bell

AIA Colorado was in Washington, D.C. for the AIA Leadership Summit and also on the Hill discussing issues that are important to Colorado architects.

“Architects can change the course of history. On a fly-in day in February, hundreds of architects convened and flooded the Capitol halls visiting congressional members, all discussing three important legislative bills to elicit support. Not only was inside baseball shared, bill support was gained and a bonus topic was planted. A future visioning session with legislators on imagining housing added to the 36% of federally owned buildings and property in Colorado. A sure win for the future!”

— Sarah Broughton, FAIA, Past President

Julianne Scherer, AIA, President, Sarah Broughton, FAIA, Past-President, Kaylyn Kirby, AIA, Young Architects Forum Representative, Mike Waldinger, Hon. AIA, CEO, and Nikolaus Remus, AIA,  Advocacy Advancement Director visited the offices of Sen. Bennet, Sen. Hickenlooper, Rep. DeGette, Rep. Pettersen, and Rep. Boebert.

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Architects on the Hill

In total, more than 400 AIA architects members converged on Capitol Hill to advocate for pressing legislation that will significantly impact the architecture profession and community needs. Architects focused on direct engagement with policymakers to advocate for critical legislative goals.

Key national issues include:

Additionally, Colorado membership engaged with policy makers regarding federal workforce housing. Specifically, the request was for the federal government to free up land for future developments that can help make our communities livable for those who work there, starting with federal employees and federal land.

AIA Colorado invited members of the Colorado Congressional delegation to participate in a housing symposium in order to convene and co-promote a visioning session with federal agencies experiencing workforce shortfalls.

Read the AIA Colorado issues document shared and discussed with Colorado’s Congressional delegation.

The message was made loud and clear that AIA Colorado stands ready to help coordinate this effort with Congressional participation and support!

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American Institute of Architects (AIA) Elevates Will Babbington, FAIA, to the College of Fellows

Posted on by Jon Bell

Will Babbington, FAIA, of Studio NYL, has been newly elevated to the College of Fellows, one of the highest honors bestowed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

My goal is always to enable and even expand the architectural vision and raise performance levels. Detail by detail, building by building, regardless of project type or scale.

Will Babbington, FAIA

Will Babington FAIA, PE, is the Façade Design Director and Principal for Studio NYL’s Skins Group, where he specializes in merging high performance and thoughtfully designed building enclosures.  As both an architect and engineer, his multidisciplinary and intensely collaborative approach have allowed realization of his clients’ architectural aspirations.

Will is also a leader in the advancement and spreading of professional knowledge throughout the industry.  He serves as National Chair of AIA’s Building Performance Knowledge Community, an AIA National representative on the ASHRAE’s 90.1 Energy Standard’s Envelope Subcommittee, the Co-Chair of Facade Tectonics Institute’s Special Advisory Council, and the Past Chair for the National Building Enclosure Council, a joint initiative of the AIA and National Institute of Building Sciences.

Will Babbington shares technologically-advanced strategies for architectural enclosures, enabling collaborators award-winning latitude in their design vision and advancing the Profession’s insight into sustainability and energy efficiency.

Fellows Jury Statement

As all of the recently elevated Fellows have done, Will prepared a preliminary submittal for the AIA Colorado Fellows Nominating Committee to review and provide comments and each were sponsored by a previously elevated Fellow themselves. After receiving a full endorsement from the Committee, their nominations were ratified by the AIA Colorado Board. The Committee is now soliciting submittals for 2024.

Upon reviewing Will’s preliminary submittal in 2022, the AIA Colorado Fellows Nominating Committee was enthusiastic about Will moving forward with a formal presentation to the AIA’s Jury of Fellows. We were delighted this year when Will was elevated to Fellowship. The formal ceremony for receiving the award this spring in Washington D.C. will be that formal recognition for a unique and exemplary career.  

Phillip H. Gerou, FAIA
Chair, 2024 AIA Colorado Fellows Nominating Committee

Only 3 percent of AIA’s 95,000 members hold this distinction and only 96 new fellows were inducted this year. 

The fellowship program was developed to elevate architects who have achieved a standard of excellence in the profession and made a significant contribution to architecture and society on a national level. Prospective candidates must have at least 10 years of AIA architect membership and demonstrated influence in at least one of the following areas:

  • Promoted the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession. 
  • Advanced the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of practice. 
  • Coordinated the building industry, and the profession of architecture. 
  • Ensured the advancement of the living standards of people through their improved environment. 
  • Made the profession of ever-increasing service to society. 
  • Advanced the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of architectural education and training.

Fellows are selected by a seven-member Jury of Fellows. This year’s jury included Chair Lisa Lamkin, FAIA, Brown Reynolds Watford Architects, Inc; Carl D’Silva, FAIA, Perkins + Will; Sanford Garner, FAIA, RGCollaborative; Margaret McFadden Carney, FAIA, Cornell University; Pamela Rew, FAIA, KSS Architects; Anne Schopf, FAIA, Mahlum and Lourdes Solera, FAIA, MCHarry Associates.

New fellows will be honored at the AIA Awards Gala, June 7, 2024, at the National Building Museum in Washington D.C. 

2023 Legislator Awards

Posted on by Jon Bell

AIA Colorado recently presented our 2023 legislators awards to Senator Dylan Roberts as our 2023 Legislator of the Year and Representative Jenny Willford as our 2023 Outstanding New Legislator.

Despite representing very different districts, both Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Jenny Willford share a number of the same qualities. They are smart. They focus on the needs of their constituents. They have the confidence to take on big issues. They have the courage to cast independent votes. They understand the connection between the built environment and the threat of global warming. AIA Colorado is lucky to work closely with them and have them as champions.

Jerry Johnson, AIA Colorado Lobbyist

2023 Legislator of the Year

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Senator Dylan Roberts, alongside representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Meghan Lukens, graciously agreed to meet with AIA Colorado West Section members in Glenwood Springs this past fall to discuss issues important to the architecture profession such as wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, and climate-related topics as they affect our mountain communities.

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Advocacy Engagement Director Nikolaus Remus, AIA, and our lobbyist, Jerry Johnson, joined our members to present our 2023 Legislator of the Year award to Dylan Roberts in recognition of his successful effort to include architects in the board created via SB23-166: Establishment of a Wildfire Resiliency Code Board. This important bill will better define wildland-urban interface areas in Colorado and the board will determine appropriate codes that buildings within these areas must be designed to.  As introduced, this bill lacked the perspective of an architect who could offer insight on how building codes are applied to projects and how they can effectively be used statewide in areas with varying types of fire risk. While similar to the typical building codes architects use on every project, codes such as the ICC’s International Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Code look more wholistically at building and site design solutions, construction techniques, defensible site maintenance, and fire suppression water supply availability.

2023 Outstanding New Legislator

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Representative Jenny Willford joined our Government Affairs Committee in February to be presented the Outstanding New Legislator Award. We first met Rep. Willford during her campaign in 2022 and were delighted to learn that she strongly supported broader adoption of the latest energy code versions. It’s not common to speak to a candidate who has any familiarity with building codes, but Rep. Willford had experience in both her capacity as a Northglenn city council member and in work she’s done for the Colorado Sierra Club. AIA Colorado supported Rep. Willford’s HB23-1005: New Energy Improvement Program Changes, which expanded the state’s C-PACE energy improvement financing program to apply to more project types. When local jurisdictions opt-in to C-PACE financing, building owners can pay back loans with favorable rates and no upfront costs through their property tax payments. This way, energy improvement projects can be quickly implemented and use new monthly energy-use savings to help pay back the project loan.

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Congratulations again to Senator Dylan Roberts and Representative Jenny Willford! AIA Colorado looks forward to continuing our strong partnership at the state capitol in the years to come.

West Director Letter

Posted on by Jon Bell

West Director Letter

Andrea Korber, AIA

Hello Western Colorado AIA members!

Since joining the AIA Colorado board, I’ve been thinking about how to best serve the members on the western slope for my 2-year board member term and hope this message today starts a conversation that we can continue throughout this year and next.

We, the West, cover a vast area:

I’d love your thoughts on this question about how AIA Colorado helps you. What’s important to you? Please reach me at: andi@landandshelter.com

One goal for the year 2024 is to make more AIA Colorado offerings available in a virtual participation format, where possible. We have made one adjustment recently that supports that effort. The AIA Colorado calendar is now searchable by “Virtual Attendance” offerings and you can see that right below the calendar’s search bar.

New Virtual Offering: Business of Architecture Roundtable: Recruitment & Hiring Strategies

With that in mind, the “Business of Architecture” roundtable series starts next week with the first event taking place this Tuesday March 5th. Join using the Zoom link provided in the RSVP confirmation email and enjoy a discussion of recruitment and hiring strategies.

Business of Architecture RSVP

West Virtual Connect this March 12th

As part of my role as West Director, I want to foster as much conversation and discussion as possible. Many of us are facing the same challenges day after day and I hope to gather us regularly to share concerns, goals, and ideas for Western Colorado AIA membership.

We are planning to meet virtually Tuesday mornings at 8am on March 12th, June 11th, September 10th, and December 10th. Please RSVP in advance so that I know how many of us to expect and email me in advance if there’s something in particular you’d like to discuss. Hopefully, these conversations will create a springboard for more to come.

Please join us this Tuesday at 8am on March 12th!

RSVP Here

Almost dried in!

About Me

I moved to Colorado in 2007 and headed straight to the mountains. I’ve been in Carbondale ever since and I’m currently building my own home in town.

My architectural practice, Land+Shelter, focuses on community-based design. I hope to meet many of you in person over the next couple years. If you are in Carbondale or plan to be, please reach out.

Cheers!

– Andi

Colorado Architecture News | 02.21.24

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 02.21.24

In this Newsletter:

  • Pursuing Fellowship
  • Code Class this Friday
  • AAHKC National and Chapter Updates
  • Upcoming Business of Architecture roundtable discussion
  • ARE study groups
  • CGBG announces Annual Winners
  • Architect-ing discussions on J.E.D.I. and Improving Colorado’s Housing Options
  • AEF travel scholarship submission window closes March 1st
  • Upcoming Colorado BPS webinars
  • CAP Spring lecture series
  • National news

AIA COLORADO NEWS

AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee 

Being elected to AIA’s College of Fellows represents the highest individual honor bestowed by the Institute upon its members, second only to the Institute’s Gold Medal. Fellowship elevation signifies recognition for an exemplary career with a broad impact on the architectural profession. Colorado has been fortunate since 1886 to witness 104 of our members elevated to Fellowship, including three new fellows named last year.

Are you interested in pursuing Fellowship? If so, our College of Fellows Nominating Committee would love to hear from you! Please visit the link and contact Phil Gerou, FAIA, Chair of the Fellows Nominating Committee, by tomorrow, Feb 22nd.

Fellowship
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This year, AIA Colorado is offering 6 Code Classes encompassing a variety of courses. We hope that you take advantage of the breadth of knowledge being presented. Registrations for all 6 of the individual classes offered this year are live with discounts offered to AIA members and early registrants.

This Friday, take part in the 2021 IBC Overview and explore the major provision of the International Building Code and sign up through Eventbrite in advance.

Code Class Registration
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Academy of Architecture for Health: National and Local Chapter Updates

On February 28th, join the 2024 Academy of Architecture for Health Knowledge Community (AAHKC) for an update from 2024 AAH National President, Michelle Trott, AIA, and a discussion on local developments. Additionally, you will hear updates from AAHKC Colorado with a preview of the year ahead.

RSVP
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The AIA Colorado Business of Architecture Committee invites you to join a roundtable discussion of recruitment and hiring strategies. This event will be in person at Neoera offices in Denver and a Zoom link will be available for those that can only join remotely. Topics to be discussed include: 

  • Hiring A to Z – recommended practices
  • When to hire a 1099 contractor or an employee
  • When to hire nonbillable personnel
  • Cost differences
  • Training and Retention
  • Dismissing employees

Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

RSVP

ARE Study Groups

What do you need to reach your ARE goals? Access to study materials? A group of peers studying for the same exam as you? We all have the same goal, so why do it alone?

The J.E.D.I. Committee would like to assist in creating a strong network of people, study materials, accountability, and resources beyond what is offered at individual firms. We’re also interested in knowing where everyone is on their exam journey.

Sign Up

MEMBER NEWS

Warren Foster, AIA member from 1976 – 2012, passed away January 16th, 2024. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday February 24th. Read more

Colorado Green Building Guild (CGBG) announces Annual Award winners

Each year, The CGBG presents four prestigious awards for contributions in the advancement of the green build industry. Ely Merheb, AIA, is this year’s Leadership Initiative Award Winner. Ely has been an AIA Colorado volunteer for many years including Chair of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) Committee in 2022.

Shape Architecture Studio won Green Building of the Year for their Nederland Passive House. See all CGBG Annual Awards.

J.E.D.I. Discussion on the Architect-ing Podcast

At the ENGAGE 2023 Practice + Design Conference, Adriana Medina-López-Portillo, Jason Pugh, Mei-Ling Krabbe, Raphael Chavez, AIA, and Patricia Joseph Gill, AIA, joined Colorado Architect Adam Wagoner, AIA, on his Architect-ing Podcast. The conversation included emphasizing the need for more dialogue, advocacy, and intentionality highlighting the business case in the modern workforce for diversity and inclusion.
Watch on Youtube. Listen on Apple | Spotify | Google | Pandora

Improving Colorado Housing Options on the Architect-ing Podcast

At the ENGAGE 2023 Practice + Design Conference, Sean Jursnick, AIA, Derek Chavez, AIA, and Robert Peebles AIA, from SAR+ Architects join Colorado Architect Adam Wagoner, AIA, on his Architect-ing Podcast to discuss the concept of single stair residential buildings, also known as point access blocks.
Watch on Youtube. Listen on Apple | Spotify | Google | Pandora

PARTNER NEWS AND EVENTS

2024 Architectural Education Foundation Scholarships close March 1st

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 $800,000 to more than 250 students, architects, and teachers. Thanks to their support, we’re pleased to announce the availability of academic and travel scholarships for 2024. More info and apply here.

Upcoming CAP Spring lecture series

  • Ophélia Mantz & Rafael Beneytez-Durán, Z4Z4 +Z4A, Co-Principals, Thursday February 29, 12pm
  • Lior Galili, CU Denver CAP, Visiting Assistant Professor
    Thursday March 28, 12pm

Lectures are held at the Second Floor Gallery, CU Denver. More info and RSVP here.

Colorado BPS requirements webinar for industry professionals

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) is hosting a webinar for building industry professionals to discuss the State’s new Building Performance Standard (BPS) requirements. This webinar will cover the details and requirements of each of the compliance pathways, and the implementation timeline for the BPS program. Dates and times for the webinar are:

NEWS AT NATIONAL

Young Architects Forum February 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, 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. Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with five manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. View company website.

Visit Humbolt Sawmill and Allweather Wood website.

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Letter From 2024 AIA Colorado President

Posted on by Jon Bell

I hope everyone has had an inspiring start to the new year. What’s in store for you this year?

Well, we have the Architecture Practice Act, Design + Honor Awards, Practice & Design Conference, and opportunities for engagement brought to you by your fellow member volunteers. 

Architect’s Practice Act Renewal

2024 is a critically important year for AIA Colorado’s advocacy efforts. This year the state legislature will introduce an updated practice act for architects, professional engineers, and land surveyors. Every licensed profession must periodically undergo a review by the state and a licensing bill is introduced based on the state’s report.

Without the state legislature and governor affirming an extension of this law that regulates the title and scope of licensed architects, our value as a profession is erased.

How can you advocate for the value of our profession?  

First, plan on attending the 2024 Reception With Legislators event on February 20th.

Join colleagues for appetizers and beverages while meeting with state legislators and key policymakers. We will have an issue briefing to everyone who RSVP’s for the reception.

RSVP

Second, help AIA Colorado support our allies in the state legislature in 2024. Your contributions to ARCpac help our efforts!

The Architects of Colorado Political Committee (ARCpac) empowers architects to play an active role in the election process. Through ARCpac, AIA Colorado members can collectively donate to candidates who fight for issues on behalf of architects.

Issues facing the architecture profession are non-partisan and ARCpac supports candidates statewide in both parties. AIA Colorado has worked closely with the state to ensure our role in protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public is understood. We have allies in the legislature ready to introduce the bill who value the architecture profession.

With your help, ARCpac can help strengthen our relationships with state legislators in 2024, and beyond! Our practice act renewal is the perfect time to speak with legislators and build or strengthen relationships.

One of the best ways to remain relevant at the state capital is to help our allies get re-elected. ARCpac can write checks for up to $400 per candidate and we’ve identified 24 key legislators worthy of such support sitting on critical committees deciding the fate of the practice act. These elected officials are from each party and all corners of the state.

Individuals and firms (corporations and LLCs) may contribute up to $725 for the 2023-24 election cycle. Everything helps, please contribute what you can.

Our board, staff, and Government Affairs Committee members have started by giving the first $5,000 for the 2024 election so far. With another $5,000 from members like you, we can meet our campaign goal of 24 maximum contributions to 24 legislative champions.

Contribute to ARCpac

Third, reach out to our Advocacy Director, Nikolaus Remus, AIA, if you have an idea to invite local legislators to your firm, a project site, or simply want to get to know them better back home in their district. Advocacy is all about relationships and we want our elected representatives to personally know architects when they consider policy changes.

Your engagement is crucial in maintaining our value and ultimately our professional licensure.

It’s never too early to start preparing to share your built and unbuilt work for our 2024 AIA Colorado Design + Honor Awards. The call for entries will open March 20th and you look for an announcement in the AIA Colorado newsletter when that call is officially open. Consider how your creative acts are improving the environment for future generations and share this through our awards program. Let’s celebrate your creative gift to the built environment!

Next, organizing and preparation for the 2024 AIA Colorado Practice and Design Conference has begun. I ask owners and principals of firms to consider how you will support the future of the profession by engaging in the continuous learning of your emerging professionals. Our Practice and Design Conference is just the place to build the knowledge and connect to advance our profession.

Finally, all of this and more could not be accomplished without our thoughtful, engaged, and dedicated staff alongside our member volunteers. We reorganized the member volunteer structure to provide leadership, accountability, and capacity. New this year is an organization-wide calendar for you to keep up with everything happening.

If you have an event you’d like to share with members, you can submit your event or tour idea here.

As we embrace 2024, I am grateful and honored to serve you and our profession. This year, I am engaging with architects throughout our state and recording our conversations for a future series exploring the value of an architect. I’m looking forward to sharing these conversations with you later this year.

These are only a few items brought to you through your membership with AIA. Your membership reaffirms our professional value and we will engage with each other, share our value, and commit to reaffirming our collective interest in improving the built environment.

Together, as one AIA Colorado, we will continue to work our mission of ‘Elevating the architecture profession to design a more equitable, sustainable, and beautiful Colorado.’

ARE Study Group

Posted on by Jon Bell

Study Group Information

What do you need to reach your ARE goals? Access to study materials? A group of peers studying for the same exam as you? A study schedule with people to help you stay accountable? Someone to help you work through those persistent difficult study questions?

We all have the same goal, so why do it alone?

The J.E.D.I. Committee would like to assist in creating a strong network of people, study materials, accountability, and resources beyond what is offered at individual firms. We’re also interested in knowing where everyone is on their exam journey. 

The committee has established a Google Sheet with test takers’ names, contact information, the exam they’re studying for, the exams they’ve passed, and their location. People can then find others in their area who are studying for the same exam as them – to study together, share resources, share study and testing tips, and much more. 

Please fill out the following form and we’ll add you to the Google Sheet. Then, keep an eye on your inbox for an invite to view the Google Sheet.

Be added to the ARE study group information list

ARE Study Group Information

Name
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Please write the date of expected testing or an “X” followed by the date of completion.
Okay to contact you?
By selecting Yes, you are allowing members of the AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. committee to contact you regarding ARE study.

RECENTLY LICENSED AND ESTABLISHED ARCHITECTURE MENTORS

The committee is also establishing a Google Sheet with contact information for recently licensed and established architects who are willing to meet with study groups once a month to answer any of their questions and to offer advice and study tips that helped them during their test-taking experience. 

Please fill out the following form and we’ll follow up with additional information.

ARE Study Mentors

Name
Please check the boxes of the exams you are most comfortable answering questions about:
You can select more than 1 exam.
Okay to contact you?
By selecting Yes, you are allowing members of the AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. committee to contact you regarding ARE study.

Additional AIA Colorado Member Resources

Lastly, visit the AIA Colorado exam resource page and reach out to staff regarding a number of study materials available to loan to current AIA members. Contact Advocacy Engagement at nikolaus@aiacolorado.org to coordinate.

Colorado Architecture News | 02.07.24

Posted on by Jon Bell

News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 02.07.24

In this Newsletter:

  • Marry Morissette, FAIA shares observations from COP28
  • Reception with Legislators
  • Are you interested in pursuing Fellowship?
  • 2024 Code Class schedule and registration
  • Meet the 2024 Class of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
  • Rodwin Architecture wins Bronze International Design Award
  • Upcoming CAP Spring lecture series
  • Denver Landmark Preservation Commission opening
  • Denver Lower Downtown Design Review Commission opening
  • Colorado BPS Requirements webinar for industry professionals
  • National news

The Week in Words

“Climate impacts have no boundaries, and the complexities are limitless. We truly are all in this together and the level of intellect and ambition going toward solving climate issues are impressive.”

— Mary Morissette, FAIA shares her personal observations after attending COP28 last Fall in Dubai.

AIA COLORADO NEWS

2024 Reception with Legislators

Members of ACEC Colorado, AIA Colorado, & Other AES Organizations are invited to join your colleagues for appetizers and beverages while meeting with state legislators and key policymakers. Lobbyists for both organizations are inviting legislators and identifying to them who from their districts will be attending the reception.

AIA Colorado is covering the registration fee for AIA Colorado members who RSVP through Eventbrite. We encourage members taking advantage of this offer to consider a contribution to The Architects of Colorado Political Action Committee.

RSVP

AIA College of Fellows Nominating Committee 

Being elected to AIA’s College of Fellows represents the highest individual honor bestowed by the Institute upon its members, second only to the Institute’s Gold Medal. Fellowship elevation signifies recognition for an exemplary career with a broad impact on the architectural profession. Colorado has been fortunate since 1886 to witness 104 of our members elevated to Fellowship, including three new fellows named last year.

Are you interested in pursuing Fellowship? If so, our College of Fellows Nominating Committee would love to hear from you! Please visit the link and contact Phil Gerou, FAIA, Chair of the Fellows Nominating Committee, by Feb 22nd.

Fellowship
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This year, AIA Colorado is offering 6 Code Classes encompassing a variety of courses. We hope that you take advantage of the breadth of knowledge being presented. Also, the 2021 IBC Overview class that we are offering twice is a great resource for emerging professionals who are looking for a deep dive introduction to building code. 

Registrations for all 6 of the individual classes offered this year are now live with discounts offered to AIA members and early registrants. The April 5 Code Class will be held in the North Section with a venue confirmation coming shortly.

Code Class Registration

Meet the class of 2024

The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) aims to train the next generation of leaders in architecture through a yearlong series of sessions focusing on everything from community leadership to firm management. Congratulations to the
2023 scholars:

  • Ashley Baldwin, AIA, DLR Group
  • Colin D’Emilio, Assoc. AIA, TreanorHL
  • Eric Dernbach, AIA, BOSS.architecture
  • Mallory Esselman, AIA, Anderson Mason Dale
  • Taylor Higgins, AIA, Land + Shelter
  • Hannah Hobbs, AIA, Steinberg Hart
  • Horace Hou, AIA, Populous
  • Mackenzie Huber, AIA, BVH Architecture
  • Alex Kendle, AIA, Perkins & Will
  • Kari Lawson, AIA, HDR
  • Caleb Leftin, BRS Architecture
  • Sonya Shah, AIA, 720 design, inc.
  • Zachary Sherrod, Assoc. AIA, Anderson Mason Dale
  • Ryan Wakat, Assoc. AIA, Animal Arts Design Studios
  • Sara Zezulka, AIA, Semple Brown
  • Wei Zhao, AIA, Ratio Design

MEMBER NEWS

Rodwin Architecture’s LEEP Platinum project The Hoefling House, 2022 winner of AIA Colorado Design Award of Merit for Sustainable Design, has won a Bronze award from the International Design Awards.

PARTNER NEWS AND EVENTS

2024 Architectural Education Foundation Scholarships now open!

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 $800,000 to more than 250 students, architects, and teachers. Thanks to their support, we’re pleased to announce the availability of academic and travel scholarships for 2024. More info and apply here.

Upcoming CAP Spring lecture series

  • Isabel Martínez Abascal, LANZA Atelier, Monday February 12th, 12pm
  • Gina Ford, Agency Landscape and Planning, Principal Landscape Architect, Co-Founder, Thursday February 15th, 4:30pm
  • Jeannette Kuo, Karamuk Kuo Architects, Monday February 19th, 12pm
  • Ophélia Mantz & Rafael Beneytez-Durán, Z4Z4 +Z4A, Co-Principals, Thursday February 29, 12pm

Lectures are held at the Second Floor Gallery, CU Denver. More info and RSVP here.

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Denver Landmark Preservation Commission opening

Denver’s Landmark Preservation Commission is seeking a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy this spring. Commissioners shall attend twice-monthly meetings and periodic special meetings to hear and decide requests for:

  • Alterations, additions, signage, site work, zone lot amendments, and new construction within local historic districts and individual landmark sites
  • Demolition within historic districts and individual landmark sites
  • Historic preservation tax credit certification
  • Individual landmark or historic district

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Friday, February 9th. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to Landmark Preservation staff but does not internally evaluate nominations.
Learn more

Denver Lower Downtown Design Review Commission

Denver’s Lower Downtown Design Review Commission is seeking new commissioners to fill the following vacancies this spring:

  • Resident of the Lower Downtown Historic District
  • General contractor or builder

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Friday, February 9th. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to the commission but staff does not internally evaluate nominations.
Learn more

Colorado BPS requirements webinar for industry professionals

The Colorado Energy Office (CEO) is hosting a webinar for building industry professionals to discuss the State’s new Building Performance Standard (BPS) requirements. This webinar will cover the details and requirements of each of the compliance pathways, and the implementation timeline for the BPS program. Dates and times for the webinar are:

NEWS AT NATIONAL

2023 Architects Journey to Specification reveals post-pandemic shifts in firm culture, product experimentation

For the first time since 2016, AIA offers free access to entire study tracking the evolution of product specification and selection. Read at AIA

The world’s 10 most important top secret buildings, including the Cheyenne Mountain Complex in Colorado Springs

Read at Architectural Digest

Premier Partner Spotlight

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. Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with five manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. View company website.

Visit Humbolt Sawmill and Allweather Wood website.

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Seats Available on 2 Denver Commissions

Posted on by Jon Bell

Denver Landmark Preservation Commission opening

Denver’s Landmark Preservation Commission is seeking a new commissioner to fill an upcoming vacancy this spring. Commissioners shall attend twice-monthly meetings and periodic special meetings to hear and decide requests for:

  • Alterations, additions, signage, site work, zone lot amendments, and new construction within local historic districts and individual landmark sites
  • Demolition within historic districts and individual landmark sites
  • Historic preservation tax credit certification
  • Individual landmark or historic district

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Friday, February 9, 2024. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to Landmark Preservation staff but does not internally evaluate nominations.
Learn more

Denver Lower Downtown Design Review Commission

Denver’s Lower Downtown Design Review Commission is seeking new commissioners to fill the following vacancies this spring:

  • Resident of the Lower Downtown Historic District
  • General contractor or builder

If you’re interested in this position, please review the full list of duties and qualifications, then submit a resume or professional biography to Nikolaus Remus. Nominations will be accepted by AIA Colorado through noon on Friday, February 9, 2024. AIA Colorado will send a list of interested members in good standing to the commission but staff does not internally evaluate nominations.
Learn more

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