Singularity, AI, and The Circular Economy
Wednesday, November 12, 4pm, Keystone Conference Center
Singularity, AI, and The Circular Economy
At the AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference, Paul Doherty delivered an engaging session titled “Singularity, AI, and The Circular Economy,” offering a visionary perspective on the future of architecture and construction. Doherty, renowned for creating Revit and Buzzsaw, announced groundbreaking plans to acquire Autodesk and transform it into a services company powered by blockchain-backed project coins and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). He shared his experiences leading smart city projects like the New Murabba and Trojena in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the critical role of cultural anthropologists in designing spaces that prioritize societal and community needs.
Doherty explored transformative technologies such as AI, singularity, and blockchain, highlighting their potential to revolutionize workflows, improve data integrity, and create new revenue streams. He introduced agentic AI as a tool for automating tasks, freeing professionals to focus on creative and impactful work. He also shared insights into VRML, Ethereum, and digital twins, which bridge the gap between design and operations, enabling continuous data stewardship beyond the certificate of occupancy.
The session showcased Doherty’s innovative projects, including his collaboration with Netflix Korea on Squid Game and his partnership with James Cameron to integrate Avatar technology into immersive designs. He emphasized the importance of regenerative materials like Hexis, a bamboo-corn hybrid, and basalt, which offer sustainable alternatives for construction. Doherty also discussed physical AI innovations, such as drones and humanoid robots, which are transforming construction practices and enhancing safety.
Doherty underscored the importance of embracing change and adopting tools like process mapping to identify automation opportunities and improve workflows. He envisioned a future where decentralized systems powered by AI and blockchain foster transparency, collaboration, and efficiency across the industry.
Through compelling anecdotes and examples, Doherty illustrated how emerging technologies can empower architects to create sustainable, regenerative designs aligned with the principles of the circular economy. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of learning from younger generations, who are native to the digital world, and fostering collaboration to address challenges in the built environment. His vision for Autodesk, combined with partnerships like Procore and Ferguson, promises to redefine the industry and inspire innovation for years to come.
Key
Takeaways
Physical AI is Already Transforming Warfare and Construction
Physical AI, combining robotics with artificial intelligence, is already being deployed in real-world applications like autonomous drone warfare and will soon revolutionize construction safety and efficiency.
You’re seeing it right now in the Ukraine, Russian war. Do you see those swarms of mini drones and what they did to the bombers of the Russian Air Force? This stuff is real. That was all AI. It learned what it saw in the field, it re-cropped what was supposed to happen… Physical AI is here… it’s really going to be about equipment, you know, being able to save lives by having dangerous activities, like being on a demolition team, being a roofer.
AI as Companion, Not Replacement
AI should be viewed as a companion tool that handles mundane tasks and provides superhuman capabilities to users, rather than replacing human expertise. It’s most effective when integrated into existing processes rather than used as a standalone solution.
AI takes care of the mundane. It’s a companion. It’s not going to give you the answer. It will provide answers. But it’s up to you to know, is this thing hallucinating or not? Because of the majority of the time it is… People are using this stuff and they’re just doing it. Why? Because it’s making something easier for them. And in certain cases it kind of looks like you have superhero powers when you use it.
Everything is Connected to Everything
The future of construction requires understanding that all systems, processes, and stakeholders are interconnected, demanding holistic approaches that consider the entire building lifecycle from conception through operation.
I reread a book about the biography of Leonardo da Vinci. And this quote really, really stuck with me because he’s saying, I’m learning how to see again that everything’s connected to everything. And I went, aha. That’s just it… That’s what I mean, that everything is connected to everything. We no longer stop because our AIA contract says, well, we’re done. No, you’re not. No, you’re not. You are now the stewards of that building’s data.
Generational Shift in Digital-Physical Integration
The next generation doesn’t distinguish between digital and physical worlds, requiring architects to design built environments that seamlessly integrate both realms rather than treating them as separate entities.
They found a social footing. So that when they’re in the Boy Scout troops that they’re acting the same way at a troop meeting as they are online, they don’t see the difference between the digital world and the physical world. We do. There’s gaming time and then it shuts off. And now we’re in the real world… We’re designing the built environment for that next generation. Have you had those discussions?
Process Mapping is the Key to the Kingdom
Process mapping is a critical but underutilized business tool that helps firms understand how work gets done, enabling them to make informed decisions about what to automate and what processes to maintain manually.
Process maps. That is the key to the kingdom… You had to understand how work got done because then you had to hire the people at the local level… And if you had consistent processes, you could then say, what do we automate and what don’t we automate at this time for your firm and for your crews? It changed my life. Understanding graphically how things worked and how work got done.
Digital Twins Cross the Certificate of Occupancy
The future of digital twins extends far beyond traditional BIM models, continuing to serve building owners throughout the operational lifecycle and creating new revenue streams for architects and designers.
You take a look at every piece of software in the design profession and in the construction world, they all stop at the certificate of occupancy, every one of them… What AI, Blockchain and all these other tools, what they’re really going to do for us is provide different revenue streams, additional revenue streams, because you’re going to be able to host your digital twins… and actually be a partner with those building owners.
Major Autodesk Acquisition Announcement
Paul Doherty announced plans to acquire Autodesk for $90 billion through sovereign wealth funds, promising to reduce software costs by 75% and transform the company into a services-based, blockchain-enabled platform.
I’m here to announce that I’m acquiring Autodesk and bringing them private. I have the world’s greatest team to do this. The reason why I’m heading to Dubai and to Saudi Arabia is that the three sovereign wealth funds from Qatar, the UAE and Saudi Arabia made a promise to President Trump back in May that they’re going to invest in America.
Circular Economy Drives Regenerative Design
The construction industry must shift from a ‘take, make, dispose’ model to a circular economy focused on regenerative design that heals and improves the environment through innovative materials and processes.
Right now this is our society worldwide, and it’s horrible. You know, we take, we make, and we dispose. We’re a disposable society as a human race. The circular economy says this. Let’s regenerate by design… When you regenerate, you actually have this way of seeing how everything’s connected to everything and things then regenerate themselves.
Blockchain Enables Immutable Construction Data
Blockchain technology can solve the construction industry’s data trust issues by creating immutable records of transactions and project information, eliminating fraudulent documentation and enabling reliable data for the first time.
Blockchain is immutable. It’s not a PDF document that you insert information that could be wrong. It’s an agreement of a transaction that says, Akhil is Akhil. I’m Paul. We both agree it gets written into the source code. You can’t change it. That’s amazing. For the first time, we’re going to have the opportunity as an industry to actually have immutable data that’s filtered out over time.
Real Estate-Backed Cryptocurrency for Construction
A new model of project-specific cryptocurrency backed by real estate value could incentivize quality work by allowing trades to take partial payment in tokens that appreciate with the property’s success.
Every project that uses this system is going to be issued a project coin. That coin’s value is going to be equally distributed based on the value of the real estate itself. This is real estate backed cryptocurrency, not that bitcoin crap… You know that when it’s finished it’s going to raise the value of the real estate. So why not take 5 or 10% of your invoice and keep it as crypto. You’re going to make more money that way than you ever would with invoicing for services.
Beyond Technology: Leading AI-Driven Transformation in Architecture
Wednesday, November 12, 3pm, Keystone Conference Center
Beyond Technology: Leading AI-Driven Transformation in Architecture
At the AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference, Brooke Grammier, CIO of CanonDesign, delivered the session “Beyond Technology: Leading AI-Driven Transformation in Architecture,” exploring AI’s transformative impact on the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. CanonDesign, recognized by Fast Company as a top innovator workplace for two consecutive years, exemplifies innovation through its diverse practices, including architecture, engineering, consulting, and software services. Grammier emphasized the critical role of leadership in driving AI adoption, highlighting Canon Design’s AI steering committee, which ensures secure implementation of tools like Billie, an internal large language model (LLM) enhancing data accessibility.
Grammier detailed the Innovation Design Consortium (IDC), founded by 41 major architecture firms, including CanonDesign, to advance AEC collaboration. The IDC promotes data sharing and joint tool development, reducing redundancy and accelerating progress. Firms can join via idc-aec.com and access consulting outputs such as data readiness surveys, glossaries, and job descriptions for emerging roles. She outlined the four phases of the data journey—orientation, readiness, ownership, and advanced use cases—emphasizing most firms are in early stages.
CanonDesign’s AI Week educated employees on AI ethics, copyright, bias, and practical applications, achieving high engagement across the firm. Grammier highlighted Recon, an agentic AI tool that automates client research, reducing weeks of manual work to minutes, and Billie, which integrates secure LLMs and agentic AI tools for seamless data access. She also introduced D5 Render, a design tool enabling in-house rendering, reducing costs and empowering designers to create floor plans and visualizations efficiently.
Grammier explained the emotional journey in digital transformation, noting the importance of leadership in maintaining morale during challenges. She referenced an MIT study showing higher success rates for generic LLM adoption over custom-built tools and emphasized reskilling gaps in smaller firms, urging them to prioritize training. CanonDesign focuses on capturing market share, improving project delivery, and advancing smart building practices, ensuring AI adoption aligns with strategic goals. Grammier concluded by encouraging firms to embrace AI as a tool for innovation, emphasizing that professionals who adapt to AI will outperform those who resist it.
Key
Takeaways
Industry Collaboration Prevents Redundant Tool Development
Architecture firms are wasting resources by independently developing the same tools. The Innovation Design Consortium demonstrates how industry collaboration can reduce costs and accelerate innovation by sharing development efforts and data.
Every firm that I know was building a revit health check several years ago, and we each spent probably fifty grand each, and we should have just had one revit health check that we each spent maybe $500 each and created that for the industry.
Managing the Emotional Journey Prevents Digital Transformation Failure
70% of digital transformations fail due to the emotional journey that occurs when expectations don’t match reality. Leadership must manage expectations and maintain team morale through the inevitable challenges of data cleanup and process refinement.
70% of digital transformations actually fail, mostly because of resistance from employees and organizational culture… if you get too steep and you get into that red zone. From a company perspective, it’s really hard to bring yourself back up. And this is where most digital transformations fail or most business transformations fail.
Most Firms Are Still in Early Data Journey Phases
The majority of architecture firms are positioned between phase zero (data orientation) and phase one (data readiness) of the four-phase data journey. This represents a significant opportunity for firms that advance more quickly through these phases.
Phase zero is data orientation. This is what the 41 firms that are founders of the Innovation Design Consortium went through last year. So we had CEOs and CEOs and other C level executives from the 41 largest architecture firms sit through data orientation with consultants to just understand what this was, what the terms were, what the process was, why it was important. Most firms in our industry are sitting somewhere between phase zero and phase one.
AI Governance Requires Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Effective AI governance involves multiple departments working together to ensure safe and compliant tool usage. Canon Design’s AI steering committee, led by legal but including risk, marketing, design, and other departments, reviews all AI tools before implementation.
We also at Canon Design have an AI steering committee. We have a team of people that’s actually led by our legal department, but it includes people from our risk department, our marketing from design, from practice, quality, sustainability… this group gets together and looks at tools. So we have a process for when somebody wants to use a new AI tool. They have to run it through this group.
Innovation Speed Depends on Adoption Rate
The pace of innovation is directly tied to how quickly people adopt new tools and technologies. Successful firms focus on building tools that many people will use rather than sophisticated tools that only a few will adopt.
Innovation moves at the speed of adoption. I believe our firm is pretty innovative, because we’ve been really successful at getting people to adopt things because we do think about how we meet people, where they are, and how we get people engaged and how we get people to adopt those tools. And so when people are adopting, things move a lot faster.
AI is Business Transformation, Not Just a Technology Initiative
AI implementation requires fundamental business transformation across the entire organization, not just a technology upgrade. Leadership at all levels must be deeply engaged because this transformation affects every aspect of the business, from hiring practices to organizational culture.
This is not your typical technology initiative. This is business transformation. This is transforming all of our businesses. It’s transforming the industry. This is more than just the technology initiative, which means you better have your CEO understanding what this is and all of the other leadership at your company, because if they’re not understanding data and AI at a level that they need to understand it, and they’re just pushing it off to your technology team, then your company is not going to survive this because it is business transformation.
Reskilling Is Critical for Professional Survival
The architecture profession requires comprehensive reskilling to remain competitive. Professionals who learn to use AI effectively will replace those who don’t, making training and adaptation essential for career survival.
Architects will not be replaced by AI, but architects that use AI will replace architects that do not use AI. So that means architects need to reskill themselves to understand how to use AI and how to better their processes. Because if you don’t, then the ones that do learn how to do that are going to be a lot more efficient and likely replacement.
AI Enables In-House Capabilities Previously Outsourced
AI tools are enabling architects to perform tasks they previously contracted out, such as high-quality renderings. New tools like D5 Render allow designers to create professional renderings in-house, reducing costs and increasing creative control.
This is something that our designers would normally contract out. So we would normally hire an external firm to do all of our renderings, and we would spend however much money doing that. And with this tool, they were able to use it. And the comment back from the designers was, it was so easy that even I could do it.
Meet Users Where They Are for Maximum Adoption
Successful AI tool adoption requires meeting users in familiar environments. Canon Design’s Billy LLM succeeded because it resembled ChatGPT, which users already knew how to use, resulting in the highest adoption rate in the speaker’s 24-year career.
This is actually one of the most adopted tools I have ever rolled out at any company in my 24 years of working. It has been so popular because we’re meeting people where they live, right? Everyone’s using ChatGPT 90%, according to that last slide a couple slides ago. So if people are already familiar with using that tool, meet people where they are.
Business-Led Implementation Outperforms Technology-Led Initiatives
Successful AI implementation requires business leaders, not technology teams, to lead initiatives. Canon Design’s approach has business unit heads leading AI workshops and development in their respective areas, ensuring practical relevance and adoption.
But the important key is all of these things are owned and led by the business. So when I talk about we’re trying to get more market capture. Our head of marketing is running these workshops with us. He’s leading it. When we’re talking about smart buildings, our smart buildings leadership is leading that. It’s not me trying to lead all of this stuff as a cio.
AI in AEC: Mastering the Implementation Challenge
Wednesday, November 12, 2pm, Keystone Conference Center
AI in AEC: Mastering the Implementation Challenge
Summary
At the AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference, Akhil Hemanth, Assoc. AIA, an AI technology architect at Newcomb and Boyd, presented his vision of transforming his firm into an AI-first engineering firm. In his session, “AI in AEC: Mastering the Implementation Challenge,” Akhil explored the transformative potential of AI in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. He emphasized AI’s role in amplifying human creativity, quoting Fei Fei Li: “Artificial intelligence is not a substitute for human intelligence. It is a tool to amplify human creativity and ingenuity.”
Akhil discussed the current state of AI, showcasing tools like Gemini Nano Banana for advanced visualization, Hayog for residential design automation, and Sparkel.ai for hosting models. He emphasized the importance of considering the expanded workflow from RFP to handoff, highlighting process automation examples such as a knowledge management app, Earl for RFP generation, and a CA app for site visit reports. Project automation tools included ChatGPT’s image models, Nano Banana’s visualization capabilities, XFigure AI’s parametric design workflows, and agentic AI for multi-agent collaboration across disciplines.
To guide firms in adopting AI, Akhil introduced the Four E’s framework: exploration, effort, efficiency, and expense. Exploration involves identifying problems AI can solve, effort addresses adoption challenges like training and cultural resistance, efficiency focuses on workflow improvements, and expense evaluates ROI and investment strategies. He compared consultants and internal adoption, explaining that while consultants provide immediate value, internal teams offer long-term innovation.
Akhil shared examples like automating lead calculations and emphasized the importance of pilot programs to evaluate AI tools. He introduced an AI assessment tool with 20 questions across four sections to help firms gauge their readiness for AI adoption.
The session concluded with thought-provoking questions about the future of design, the commoditization of expertise, and the shift from drawings to insights. Akhil encouraged attendees to embrace AI’s transformative potential and become “surfers” riding the wave of change, adapting to the incoming wave of AI disruption in the AEC industry.
Key
Takeaways
Dramatic Time Reduction in Design Processes
AI tools are already achieving significant time savings in design workflows, with some processes that traditionally took 5-6 hours now completed in 10 seconds. This raises important questions about project pricing and timeline expectations when firms can deliver faster results.
So normally would have taken us almost like five to six hours. This does it in 10 minutes. Actually no, 10 seconds… And so now when you’re writing new contracts, are you going to still give the same duration that you would normally give in a design and still price it out the same way, or would you compress the thing knowing that now, you know, it takes say one week to come for design?
Agentic AI Represents the Next Evolution
The industry is moving from generative AI to agentic AI, where multiple AI agents work together to complete complex tasks autonomously. This represents a shift from single-task automation to multi-disciplinary collaboration, similar to how design teams coordinate across different specialties.
So think of you’re doing as a design, wherein you have a design, but you’re sort of like five people, right? So the designer, you have the structural engineer, MEP and civil. So normally you would, you know, a client comes to you, you would start off with the design concept, then you would send it off to the structure… That’s what agentic AI is, but it’s happening digitally.
Change Management is the Biggest Implementation Challenge
The primary obstacle to AI adoption isn’t technical capability but human resistance to change. Successful implementation requires AI champions within the firm, realistic timelines (6-12 months minimum), and dedicated training time despite competing project demands.
And the most important, again like I said, is a big pain point is cultural resistance. The hardest challenge isn’t technical for the most part. It’s human resistance to change often slows down the adoption of new tools… I think having a champion within the firm is, I think is determinant to making AI work within the firm.
Internal vs. Consultant AI Adoption Trade-offs
Firms face a critical decision between hiring AI consultants for immediate results or building internal capabilities for long-term value. While consultants provide rapid implementation, internal teams achieve higher value after 12-18 months and offer unlimited growth potential without plateauing.
So if you were to map them both consultants provide immediate value but they kind of plateau over time. Internal teams take longer to ramp up but they achieve higher value long term. So in the graph you kind of have a tip over point between the consultant and the in house, in house team, which is I think between 12 to 18 months.
Vendor Evaluation Best Practices
When evaluating AI software vendors, firms should demand evaluation results showing the tool’s accuracy, request 2-week pilot programs to test within their specific workflows, and avoid vendors who won’t provide these. Many current AI tools are overpriced due to market hype.
You should ask for eval or evaluation results. Like what is an evaluation set that they have used to come to a result that they are then showing you? That is one. And you should also push for two week example usage of the app. If they don’t give you that, just walk away.
AI Assessment Methodology for Firm Readiness
Firms should conduct comprehensive assessments across the Four E’s framework to understand their AI readiness. This includes evaluating current workflows, identifying automation opportunities, measuring success metrics, and comparing against industry benchmarks to create targeted implementation strategies.
So this framework, before we even get to the framework, what is important is something that you all have to do is look at the current state of the firm workflow, just the current state assessment. What are some of the strengths? What are some of the opportunities that you think that exist but you know you’re not making use of them.
From Creation to Curation Paradigm Shift
The design profession may be evolving from creating original work to curating and refining AI-generated outputs. This fundamental shift challenges traditional notions of architectural practice and raises questions about where professional value will lie in an AI-augmented future.
What if design becomes more about curating AI outputs than creating things from scratch? What if the most valuable firms in AEC become AI companies rather than traditional design firms? What if our expertise becomes commoditized by AI and our value lies somewhere completely different.
Embracing Change as Competitive Advantage
Rather than viewing AI as a threat (the asteroid approaching the dinosaur), AEC professionals should position themselves as surfers riding the wave of technological change. This mindset shift from resistance to adaptation is crucial for thriving in the AI-transformed industry landscape.
The first image, and I know, Mike, you mentioned this is a dinosaur that’s looking at an incoming asteroid. And I personally feel the AC industry, in this case is the dinosaur, and we are looking at AI, which is the incoming asteroid. But having said that, I want us to be the surfer. I want us to be willing to surf the wave of change.
Practical AI Applications Already Transforming Workflows
Current AI applications in AEC include knowledge management systems that search through project drawings and documents, automated proposal generation from past projects, and site visit reporting tools that capture photos and generate reports through voice interaction. These tools demonstrate immediate productivity gains.
It’s a knowledge management app, so think ChatGPT, but having access to all of the drawings, completed images of the project sites, details, elevations, and you’re just like talking to your assistant to, you know, try to find these drawings for you, trying to find the images for you. So it’s a complete knowledge management within the firm.
Process Automation vs. Project Automation Distinction
AI implementation should extend beyond traditional project workflows (the five architectural phases) to include process automation covering business development, project setup, project management, knowledge management, and firm operations. This holistic approach maximizes AI’s business value across the entire firm ecosystem.
But there is also this whole aspect of process automation which we also should talk about. Because the entire presentation that I want to give today is from the lens of us looking as a business. So from business as from the lens of the business, if we want to make AI valuable to us, we need to be looking at the entire workflow from when we get an RFP till the handoff.
Colorado Architecture News | 11.05.25
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects
11.05.25
In this Newsletter:
- Practice + Design Conference late registration
- 2026 AIA Colorado Call for Volunteers
- 2026 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
- 2026 ASCEND Mentorship Program
- MOLLIE Aspen on Hotels ByDesign
- Foothills Golf Clubhouse on American ByDesign
- Nov 6 Designing for Extreme Environments Part II: Summit Station, Greenland
- Nov 6 EP/YA happy hour in Colorado Springs
- Community news and events
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood
AIA COLORADO’S
NEWS
Late Registration available for Practice + Design Conference
Did you miss the regular registration deadline? There’s still time to join Colorado’s premier architecture event, the 2025 Practice + Design Conference, taking place November 12–14 in Keystone, CO.
This year’s theme, THE POWER OF, invites you to explore how design can shape policy, processes, and communities, empowering architects to influence the future of our built environment.
Connect with more than 500 design professionals while earning up to 13 CEUs (including 9 HSW) through two days of dynamic programming, keynotes, Tech Connect, and networking. Keynotes include Hank Koning, FAIA, and Julie Eizenberg, FAIA, Vishaan Chakrabarti, FAIA, Landscape Architect Michelle Delk, and Futurist David Zach.
Late registration is available through November 11th. Secure your spot today and join us!
2026 Call for Volunteers
The 2026 AIA Colorado Call for Volunteers is now open. We are seeking members to serve on committees that reflect our mission, vision, and values. Volunteering with AIA Colorado is a great way to develop leadership skills, connect with colleagues, and help shape the future of the profession. We encourage candidates from a variety of perspectives and backgrounds including career stage, firm size, practice type, location, and personal demographics. Apply today and make your impact on architecture in Colorado! Application window closes Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information is available here.
2026 Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program
The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) aims to train the next generation of leaders in architecture through a series of nine half-day sessions. The curriculum focuses on honing skills like:
- Entrepreneurship and firm management
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Negotiation skills
- Client development
- Community leadership
- Understanding industry trends
Each year, this competitive program accepts 16 emerging professionals to collaborate,
learn together, and develop as leaders in architecture. This program is ideal for members who are eager to advance in their career and either have not yet become a licensed architect, or have been licensed for 10 years or less.
Applications for the 2026 Class are now available with the window closing Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information about the program can be found here and the application link is here.
2026 Ascend Mentorship Program
The Ascend Program connects emerging architecture professionals with mid-career architects through mentorship as an intentional first step into the profession. These connections will support EP’s in the early stage of their careers, guiding through challenges, setting goals, and developing the skill set to succeed. Ascend groups are organized locally.
Program Outcomes:
- Guidance
- Awareness and identification of culture of architecture profession. Training on professional etiquette and expectations. Negotiate the adjustments from academia to profession.
- Support, Problem Solving
- Preparing for and dealing with challenges in the working environment.
- Career Planning, Goal Setting
- Understanding the different career paths in architecture. Setting goals in a career and developing a pathway to achieve those goals.
Mentors and Mentees for the 2026 program are now invited to apply now until Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm. More information about the program can be found here and the application link is here.
Todd Kennedy, AIA, of CCY Architects, walks us through MOLLIE Aspen in a recent episode of Hotels ByDesign. Watch the segment here.
Nicole Nathan, AIA, of JNS Architecture + Interior Design, shows off Foothills Golf Clubhouse on an episode of America ByDesign. Watch the Producer’s Cut here.
Have a project that you’d like to see in a future America ByDesign episode? The show’s producers are looking for Colorado projects! Information about the show and next steps can be found here.
AIA in conversation with Brad Buchanan, FAIA
AIA members recently met with Brad Buchanan, FAIA, Denver’s Planning Director, and came away from the time together excited about what’s ahead for Denver. Everyone agreed the Development approvals process needs improvement and Brad helped AIA architects understand recent changes and how they’re already making a difference. For example, concept SDP submittals are now “one and done”, meaning CPD will provide responses and projects are able to move directly into Formal SDP Submittals. Additionally, Brad’s charge to AIA Colorado included doing better work. “Denver needs great architecture, but we can’t regulate design,” he said. We’re eager to help Brad and the entire team at Planning and Development shape a more efficient and successful path for better development in Denver.
AIA members met up in the South for happy hour following the AIA Colorado board meeting earlier that day. See photos from the happy hour here.
In Boulder, David Barrett, FAIA, shared meaningful moments from his career, approaches to his craft, and thoughts on life in an environment rich with creativity with members at the event “Drawing on Life: 50 Years with Barrett Studio.” See photos from the event here.
Studio Completiva led members on a tour of The Burrell, a workforce housing development located in Denver’s River North Arts District (RiNo) and Five Points neighborhoods. See photos from the tour here.
The day before Halloween, HNTB led a group of AIA members on a “ghost tour” of the Denver airport. In the end, everyone made it back above ground.. no haunting delays reported. See a video from the tour created by Denver Advisor Sonya Shah, AIA, here. Thanks to Chelsea Wade, AIA, for the photo!
AIA COLORADO’S
EVENTS
Nov 6 • Designing for Extreme Environments. Part II – Summit Station, Greenland
Thursday, November 6th, at 9am, join members for a presentation and discussion led by OZ Architecture and Hugh Broughton Associates of the firms’ partnership over the past year to design a new US Station on the remote Greenland Ice Cap. This virtual event will address topics of Project Acquisition, Teaming Strategies, Design for Equity, Safety and Wellness, Off-grid High-performance Design, Prefabrication and Design for Logistics optimization, and Engagement of local communities to enrich the design. Event approved for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.
EP/YA Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
Thursday, November 6th, 5:30 – 7pm, at Red Leg Brewing Company, in Colorado Springs, join AIA Colorado’s Emerging Professionals and Young Architects (EP/YA) Leadership Council members, other EP/YA’s, network, and share your ideas on programming or resources that you would be interested in, or simply chat. RSVP here.
NEWS AND EVENTS FROM OUR
COMMUNITY
Upcoming CAP Lectures
All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO.
- Thursday, November 6, Maria Luisa deMin Lecture, 12:00 p.m. Armida Fernandez and Luis Enrique Flores, Estudio ALA, Founders. RSVP here
- Monday, November 10, Catherine and Alec Garbini Historic Preservation Lecture. 12:00 p.m. Erica Kim, University of Toronto Assistant Professor, Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. RSVP here
View lecture and exhibition series website with full series listings here.
ColoradoBuildingWorkshop Celebrates a Year of Awards and Global Recognition
The ColoradoBuildingWorkshop, CU Denver’s acclaimed design build certificate program is celebrating a banner year of national recognition and meaningful community engagement. Read about the premier of the film Building on the Edge, a documentary capturing the NOAA’s Antarctic Ecosystem Research Division project, the design exhibited at the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, and the various awards including AIA Colorado’s Design of Excellence awarded project and Educator of the Year awards, here.
CAREER CORNER
JOB BOARD UPDATES
The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:
NEWS AT
AIA NATIONAL
Architecture Firms Face Ongoing Headwinds
Business conditions at architecture firms weakened further in September, with the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) dropping to 43.3, the lowest since April. Read at AIA.
Applications for 10 project-based AIA Awards close Nov. 13
An AIA Award spotlights your work globally, drawing attention from colleagues, clients, media, and top talent. The application deadline is approaching for the Architecture Award, COTE® Top Ten Award, Interior Architecture Award, and seven others. Learn more at AIA.
AIA COLORADO’S
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. Logs are sourced from company-owned timberlands totaling nearly 450,000 acres, and all products are certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C013133). Products are available mill direct, as well as through company-owned distribution centers, servicing home improvement retailers and local lumberyards, including locations throughout Colorado.
Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with six manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. Treated products include borate, copper, and fire retardants available in Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine.
View AIA Continuing Education Courses offered by Humboldt Sawmill
AIA COLORADO’S
ALLIED MEMBERS
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:
AIA Colorado Firm Directory
- Add your firm to the directory here.
Save the Dates:
- 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference
- November 12-14, 2025 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO.
- November 1 – November 11: late registration is open
- View Conference Schedule
- Sponsorship
2026 Call for Volunteers
2026
Call for Volunteers
AIA Colorado seeks member volunteers to serve on committees that embody the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
Volunteering with AIA Colorado is a great way to use leadership skills, meet like-minded colleagues, expand your network, and help shape the profession.
Committee opportunities are reserved exclusively for AIA members in good standing and 2026 AIA Colorado Allied Members. We encourage candidates from a variety of perspectives and backgrounds including career stage, firm size, practice type, location, and personal demographics.
2026 applications are due by Monday, December 1st, at 11:59pm MT.
2026 Committees
Academy Of Architecture For Health Knowledge Community
Awards Committee
Business Of Architecture Knowledge Committee
College Of Fellows Nominating Committee
Committee On The Environment
Conference Committee
Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN)
Colorado State Disaster Coordinator
Government Affairs Committee
Housing Committee
Justice, Equity, Diversity, And Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) Committee
Local Advisory Councils (Denver, North, South, West)
Regional And Urban Design Knowledge Community
Your Proposal
Colorado Architecture News | 10.15.25
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects
10.15.25
In this Newsletter:
- Practice + Design Conference Keynote Announcement
- U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum and Park Union Bridge on American ByDesign
- Is your AIA record up to date?
- Oct 15 Denargo Market tour
- Oct 17 happy hour in Colorado Springs
- Oct 21 AIA in conversation with Denver’s new Interim Planner Director
- Oct 22 Drawing on Life: 50 Years with Barrett Studio
- Oct 22 EP/YA happy hour in Denver
- Oct 22 EP/YA happy hour in Carbondale
- Oct 23 The Burrell tour
- Nov 6 Designing for Extreme Environments Part II: Summit Station, Greenland
- Nov 6 EP/YA happy hour in Colorado Springs
- Community news and events
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight: IMEG
AIA COLORADO’S
NEWS
THE POWER OF
This year’s conference theme, THE POWER OF, is an invitation to explore and to act. The power of architecture goes beyond the built environment—it’s the power to influence policy, shape processes, build stronger communities, and challenge the forces that define our built environment.
In a time of both challenge and opportunity, we ask: How are you using your power? Are you ready to lead, or content to react? Together, we’ll connect with others who are engaging with changing forces—policy, technology, climate, community—and explore how design can be a proactive tool of influence and aspiration for the future.
Our complete keynote lineup is set, featuring Hank Koning, FAIA, and Julie Eizenberg, FAIA, Vishaan Chakrabarti, FAIA, Michelle Delk and Futurist David Zach. Start your conference experience with Tech Connect, examining the technological shifts transforming architecture.
View the full conference schedule, breakout sessions, presenters, and meet-ups here. Conference participants can earn 13 CEUs through the full program, including 9 LU|HSW.
Expo Hall booths are sold out. Sponsorship opportunities are available here.
Conference regular priced registration closes Oct 31st
Don’t miss out! Secure your spot today and start planning your conference experience by registering here.
Save some money and reserve your room in the AIA Colorado room block, either by phone or online. Lodging information is available here.
Join Ken Andrews, AIA, of Arch11, and tour the Vergence House, in Boulder, on the latest episode of America ByDesign. Watch the segment here.
The United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum and Park Union Bridge, enjoy a big segment on America ByDesign. Hear from Andrew Nelson, AIA, of Anderson Mason Dale, and watch it here.
Have a project that you’d like to see in a future America ByDesign episode? The show’s producers are looking for Colorado projects! Information about the show and next steps can be found here.
Is Your AIA Record Up to Date?
Colorado architects must renew their state license by the end of October. As part of that process, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve completed the continuing education requirements:
- 12 HSW credits for 2024
- 12 HSW credits for 2025 (to be completed and reported by December 31, 2025)
Now is a great time to review your AIA transcript and make sure your credits are recorded. It’s also a great time to register for the Practice + Design Conference to earn HSW credits. When you renew your license, you will be asked to certify that you’ve met the requirements for both 2024 and 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute, check your record today.
License renewal emails from the State of Colorado have been sent. If you haven’t received the email, check your spam folder. If you’ve changed your email address within the past two years, please contact the State at 303-894-7800 or dora_dpo_licensing@state.co.us To renew your license, please log into your Colorado Online Services account. Remember, your requirement is to obtain 12 HSW per calendar year. For helpful DORA hints of the laws and rules that apply to the practice of architecture, including Continuing Education, visit Vol. 1, April 2022 – ARC Renewals.
AIA COLORADO’S
EVENTS
Oct 15 • Denargo Market tour
Today, Wednesday, October 15th, join AIA members for a rescheduled tour of Denargo Market, the largest mix-use development under construction in the City of Denver right now. The riverfront development will soon host over 3M square feet of new development including thousands of new residential units. The master plan lays out a public realm framework that repositions the site with the river as a front door, with retail and food and beverage spilling out onto a new extension of the RiNo promenade. The first phase of construction includes over 4-acres of new public space including streets, plazas, and parks. Tour approved for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.
Oct 17 • Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
Friday, October 17th, join the AIA Colorado Board of Directors and design industry professionals for a casual social event in Colorado Springs at COATI. Food and will be drink available for purchase. RSVP here.
Oct 21 • AIA in conversation with Denver’s new Interim Planning Director
Tuesday, October 21st, 3:30 – 5pm, at the Alliance Center. Denver’s new Interim Planning Director, Brad Buchanan, FAIA, is committed to dramatically improving the Development approvals process. Brad’s recent appointment, background, and interest in hearing from AIA members provides us with a real opportunity to understand his plan, share ideas, and help shape a better path forward for development in Denver. This event is intended for firm leaders and decision makers in the greater Denver area, and an active AIA member number is required with RSVP. More info and RSVP here.
Oct 22 • Drawing on Life: 50 Years with Barrett Studio
Wednesday, October 22nd, join AIA members as we celebrate 50 years of Barrett Studio Architects at one of their most recent projects—Groundworks Art Lab in Boulder. The event will feature a presentation by David Barrett, a tour of Groundworks’ unique facility, and an exhibition of Barrett’s work spanning five decades of Living Design. More information and RSVP here.
EP/YA Happy Hours • Denver, Carbondale, Colorado Springs
Join AIA Colorado’s Emerging Professionals and Young Architects (EP/YA) Leadership Council members, other EP/YA’s, network, and share your ideas on programming or resources that you would be interested in, or simply chat.
- Thursday, November 6th, 5:30 – 7pm, at Red Leg Brewing Company, Colorado Springs. RSVP here.
- Wednesday, October 22nd, 4 – 7pm, at Improper City, Denver. RSVP here.
- Wednesday, October 22nd, 5:30 – 7pm, at Carbondale Beer Works, Carbondale. RSVP here.
Oct 23 • The Burrell Tour
Thursday, October 23rd, Studio Completiva will conduct a 20-minute overview and a 40-minute tour of the workforce housing development located at 3575 Chestnut Place in Denver’s River North Arts District (RiNo) and Five Points neighborhoods. It is a key example of a public-private partnership aimed at creating affordable homeownership opportunities for middle-income residents. Tour submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More information and RSVP here.
Nov 6 • Designing for Extreme Environments. Part II – Summit Station, Greenland
Thursday, November 6th, join members for a presentation and discussion led by OZ Architecture and Hugh Broughton Associates of the firms’ partnership over the past year to design a new US Station on the remote Greenland Ice Cap. This virtual event will address topics of Project Acquisition, Teaming Strategies, Design for Equity, Safety and Wellness, Off-grid High-performance Design, Prefabrication and Design for Logistics optimization, and Engagement of local communities to enrich the design. Event approved for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.
NEWS AND EVENTS FROM OUR
COMMUNITY
Forever Modern: Colorado Architects Reflect on a Century of Design
In Forever Modern, Modern In Denver’s editors explore how the spirit of architectural modernism endures more than a century after its birth. Through reflections with Colorado architects, the piece examines how today’s designers reinterpret modernism’s core ideals—function, clarity, and connection to place—to respond to contemporary life. The article asks whether modern architecture can stay true to its roots while continuing to evolve for the future. Read thoughts by architects Brad Tomecek, FAIA, Harvey Hine, AIA, Kevin Stephenson, AIA, Chris Davis, AIA, Linnaea Stuart, AIA, Mike Piché, AIA, and Tom Gallagher, AIA, here.
Upcoming CAP Lectures
All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO.
- Monday, October 20, ColoradoBuildingWorkshop Lecture, 12:00 p.m.Katie McDonald and Kyle Schumann, After Architecture, Founders, University of Virginia, Assistant Professors. RSVP here
- Thursday, November 6, Maria Luisa deMin Lecture, 12:00 p.m. Armida Fernandez and Luis Enrique Flores, Estudio ALA, Founders. RSVP here
View lecture and exhibition series website with full series listings here.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Giraffe Exhibit Construction Tour and Networking
Thursday, October 23, from 5 – 6:30pm, grab your hard hats and join SMPS Colorado for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s exciting new Giraffe Exhibit! This isn’t your average construction site visit—led by the General Contractor, Architect, and key trade partners, you’ll get an insider look at the $40 million expansion that’s transforming how guests and giraffes connect. From the towering new giraffe barn to the expanded outdoor habitat and interactive feeding zones, you’ll see how this project is raising the bar for animal care and guest experience. Use diccount code “GiraffeAIA” to get $50 SMPS member pricing. More information and RSVP here.
CAREER CORNER
JOB BOARD UPDATES
The AIA Colorado Job Board is updated daily. Job hunting? Take a peek to discover new opportunities. Hiring? Post your single job for 30 days. Connect with qualified candidates. Here are a few featured job openings:
NEWS AT
AIA NATIONAL
2025 AIA Compensation & Benefits Report
Compensation is one of the most critical—and most sensitive—topics in architecture. That’s why AIA collects and analyzes data from hundreds of architecture firms to produce the industry’s most comprehensive, trusted, and current report on salary and benefits. The 2025 edition delivers a clear picture of how firms structure salaries, benefits, professional development, and workplace practices. For firms, it’s an indispensable resource for recruitment, retention, and equity. For individuals, it offers the insights you need to make informed career decisions and evaluate opportunities with confidence. Learn more and purchase the report here.
AIA Colorado has copies of the 2025 report available for members to view at AIA Colorado’s offices at the Alliance Center. If you’d like to schedule a time to view the report, please inquire here.
Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS)
Experience the AEC industry’s premier event dedicated to accelerating women into leadership positions in architecture, design, and the allied building industries in Atlanta, November 3–5, 2025! WLS 2025 is three days of networking, education, community, and inspiration designed to create gender equity for women in AEC and change their workplace opportunities and experience. More information and registration here.
AIA COLORADO’S
PREMIER PARTNER SPOTLIGHT
With a history that dates back over 100 years, IMEG Corp. grew from several firms coming together under one uniting vision: people-centered engineering. As a national engineering and design consulting company IMEG intentionally localized a focus to serve carefully chosen regions and markets, allowing them to put relationships and communities first, without sacrificing expertise.
IMEG’s specialties are high-performing building systems, infrastructure, program management and construction-related services, but the secret to the success is found in a deep bench of 1,600 team members. For IMEG, people-centered engineering is about more than the people served — it’s representative of the engaged employee culture they’ve worked hard to create. IMEG believes in investing in their people and their professional futures through continuous training, community involvement and the ability to develop a niche specialty.
AIA COLORADO’S
ALLIED MEMBERS
Looking for additional resources?
Allied Members are better known as trusted industry colleagues and members of AIA Colorado—they’re the interior designers, the kitchen specialists, the engineering partners, and more who make up our AEC community in Colorado.
View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.
Helpful Links:
AIA Colorado Firm Directory
- Add your firm to the directory here.
Save the Dates:
- 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference
- November 12-14, 2025 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO.
- September 1 – October 31: attendee registration is open
- View Conference Schedule
- Sponsorship
Colorado Architecture News | 10.01.25
News from the Colorado Chapter of The American Institute of Architects | 10.01.25
In this Newsletter:
- Celebrating the Design + Honor Awards recipients
- Call for Nominations: AIA Colorado Board of Directors and AIA National Councils
- Practice + Design Conference Keynote Announcement
- Health Horizons Symposium
- State of DEI roundtable recap
- Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center on American ByDesign
- Is your AIA record up to date?
- Oct 3 Code Class: 2024 IRC Update
- Oct 9 Nest56 tour
- Oct 14 West Virtual Connect: Designing for wildfire, beyond code minimums
- Oct 15 Denargo Market tour
- Oct 17 happy hour in Colorado Springs
- Oct 21 AIA in conversation with Denver’s new Interim Planner Director
- Oct 22 Drawing on Life: 50 Years with Barrett Studio
- Oct 22 EP/YA happy hour in Denver
- Oct 23 The Burrell tour
- Community news and events
- National news
- Premier Partner spotlight: IMEG
AIA COLORADO NEWS
AIA Colorado celebrates award winners
The evening of September 18th was a big night of celebration for this year’s Design Award winners and Honor Award recipients, recognizing the best of Colorado architecture. Winners were announced at the historic Tivoli Turnalle on the Auraria campus in downtown Denver.
Congratulations to the 2025 Honor Award recipients!
- Architect of the Year: Kevin Nguyen, AIA, Regular Architecture
- Young Architect of the Year: Kaylyn Kirby, AIA, Semple Brown
- Firm of the Year: Barker Rinker Seacat
- President’s Award: Gov. Jared Polis
- Citizen Architect of the Year: Sean Jursnick, AIA, SAR+
- Educator of the Year: Erik Sommerfeld, AIA, ColoradoBuildingWorkshop
- Impact Award: Modern In Denver
- 25-Year Award: The Architect’s Studio, Tryba Architects
Congratulations to the 2025 Design Award recipients!
18 projects by Colorado architects were recognized in categories of Excellence, Merit, and Honorable Mention, including 4 projects awarded with additional Sustainability Recognition.
All Awards coverage, including project features, event photos, and Honor Award recipient articles can be found here.
Thank you to every architect who submitted work this year! Your ideas, creativity, and commitment are what move the profession forward.
Modern In Denver
The new Fall issue features the recent Design Award recipients with an 9 page spread, as well as a cover story with E.J. Meade, AIA, principal at Arch11. View the Design Awards spreads here.
Call for Nominations | 2026 AIA Colorado Board of Directors and AIA National Councils
We are seeking AIA Colorado members to serve on the AIA Colorado Board of Directorsand as state representatives to AIA national councils. The AIA Colorado Board provides stewardship of the nonprofit and is responsible for collaboratively setting the direction of the organization through consensus driven governance, policy-making, and strategic planning. The national councils are peer group networks who provide insight from our state into their programming and strategy to the national level of the Institute.
Ideal candidates are AIA members who are strategically minded, service-oriented, and capable of identifying and responding to industry trends—to enhance and propel the profession and to help members excel in their areas of practice.
AIA Colorado is committed to broadening equity, diversity and inclusion to create a stronger profession. Towards that end, the nominating committee will make every attempt to recommend a diverse, strategy-driven and competency-based slate of candidates.
Learn more about the upcoming vacancies and being your application here.
Get ready for the Practice + Design Conference!
We’re thrilled to announce our complete keynote lineup:
- Hank Koning, FAIA, and Julie Eizenberg, FAIA
- Vishaan Chakrabarti, FAIA
- Michelle Delk
- Futurist David Zach
Start your conference with Tech Connect, Wednesday, November 12. Keynotes take place Thursday, November 13, and Friday, November 14. Alongside these inspiring talks, you’ll find a full slate of engaging breakout sessions. View the full conference schedule, session details, and presenters here.
Opportunities are filling quickly:
- Only two booths remain for the Expo Hall and can be reserved here.
- Sponsorship opportunities are available here.
Don’t miss out! Secure your spot today and start planning your conference experience by registering here!
Health Horizons Symposium
October 16th, from 1 – 5pm, at CSU Spur – Hydro Building, in Denver, AIA Colorado’s Academy of Architecture for Health Knowledge Community (AAH) and Women in Healthcare (WIH) present an interactive half-day event themed Reimagined Care. Oriented to both AEC & healthcare professionals, don’t miss this chance to connect with peers, share ideas, and envision the future of healthcare. More information and RSVP here.
AIA Colorado & NOMA Colorado Host “State of DEI” Roundtable
AIA Colorado’s J.E.D.I. Committee and NOMA Colorado recently hosted The State of DEI in Colorado: What’s Next for the Architecture Profession? The roundtable gathered architects, students, firm leaders, and community members to discuss the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the profession. Panelists and participants explored challenges, shared strategies, and emphasized the importance of mentorship, inclusive design, and collaborative partnerships to sustain DEI efforts in architecture. Read about the event here.
Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center, awarded a 2025 Design Award of Merit with Sustainability Recognition, is featured on the latest episode of America ByDesign. Watch the segment here.
Have a project that you’d like to see in a future America ByDesign episode? The show’s producers are looking for Colorado projects! Information about the show and next steps can be found here.
Is Your AIA Record Up to Date?
Colorado architects must renew their state license by the end of October. As part of that process, you’ll need to confirm that you’ve completed the continuing education requirements:
- 12 HSW credits for 2024
- 12 HSW credits for 2025 (to be completed and reported by December 31, 2025)
Now is a great time to review your AIA transcript and make sure your credits are recorded. It’s also a great time to register for the Practice + Design Conference to earn HSW credits. When you renew your license, you will be asked to certify that you’ve met the requirements for both 2024 and 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute, check your record today.
AIA Colorado Events
Oct 3 • Code Class: 2024 IRC Update
Friday, October 3rd, learn up-to-date residential construction code addressing the design and construction of one- and two-family dwellings. This seminar covers the critical changes within the 2024 International Residential Code. Changes to building requirements are discussed. This full-day program includes lunch and has been approved for 7.0 AIA CES HSW learning unit hours. Register here
Oct 9 • Nest56 tour
Thursday, October 9th, join AIA members for a tour of Nest56, a 56-unit affordable housing project in the RiNo neighborhood of Denver with wrap-around supportive services that provide youth with a stepping-stone to a thriving, independent life. SAR+ Architects will conduct a 20-minute introduction and overview then the tour will commence from the sidewalk at 2700 Wewatta Way highlighting several project spaces, including the residential lobby, service provider offices, resident floors, common areas, and a ground floor exhibition space operated by Redline Contemporary Art Center. Tour approved for 1 LU|HSW. Learn more and RSVP here.
Oct 14 • West Virtual Connect: Designing for wildfire, beyond code minimums
Tuesday, October 14th, at Noon, connect virtually with Western Slope AIA members for a discussion about fire resistive construction focusing on the issue specifically for western Colorado. There will be a brief presentation to get the conversation started, following by Q+A and discussion. View the panelists and RSVP here.
Oct 15 • Denargo Market tour
Wednesday, October 15th, join AIA members for a rescheduled tour of Denargo Market, the largest mix-use development under construction in the City of Denver right now. The riverfront development will soon host over 3M square feet of new development including thousands of new residential units. The master plan lays out a public realm framework that repositions the site with the river as a front door, with retail and food and beverage spilling out onto a new extension of the RiNo promenade. The first phase of construction includes over 4-acres of new public space including streets, plazas, and parks. Tour approved for 1 LU|HSW. More info and RSVP here.
Oct 17 • Happy Hour in Colorado Springs
Friday, October 17th, join the AIA Colorado Board of Directors and design industry professionals for a casual social event in Colorado Springs at COATI. Food and will be drink available for purchase. RSVP here.
Oct 21 • AIA in conversation with Denver’s new Interim Planning Director
Tuesday, October 21st, 3:30 – 5pm, at the Alliance Center. Denver’s new Interim Planning Director, Brad Buchanan, FAIA, is committed to dramatically improving the Development approvals process. Brad’s recent appointment, background, and interest in hearing from AIA members provides us with a real opportunity to understand his plan, share ideas, and help shape a better path forward for development in Denver. This event is intended for firm leaders and decision makers in the greater Denver area, and an active AIA member number is required with RSVP. More info and RSVP here.
Oct 22 • Drawing on Life: 50 Years with Barrett Studio
Wednesday, October 22nd, join AIA members as we celebrate 50 years of Barrett Studio Architects at one of their most recent projects—Groundworks Art Lab in Boulder. The event will feature a presentation by David Barrett, a tour of Groundworks’ unique facility, and an exhibition of Barrett’s work spanning five decades of Living Design. More information and RSVP here.
Oct 22 • Emerging Professionals and Young Architects (EP/YA) Happy Hour
Wednesday, October 22nd, at Improper City, join AIA Colorado’s Emerging Professionals and Young Architects (EP/YA) Leadership Council members, other EP/YA’s, network, and share your ideas on programming or resources that you would be interested in, or simply chat. RSVP here.
Oct 23 • The Burrell Tour
Thursday, October 23rd, Studio Completiva will conduct a 20-minute overview and a 40-minute tour of the workforce housing development located at 3575 Chestnut Place in Denver’s River North Arts District (RiNo) and Five Points neighborhoods. It is a key example of a public-private partnership aimed at creating affordable homeownership opportunities for middle-income residents. Tour submitted for 1 LU|HSW. More information and RSVP here.
PARTNER NEWS
Upcoming CAP Lectures
All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. All lectures, unless specified, will start at 12 p.m. and be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver, CO.
- Tuesday, October 14, 4:30 p.m., Zoom virtual event.Zigeng Wang, Associate Professor, Deputy Head of the Department of Architecture, Central Academy of Fine Arts, Founder, PILLS. RSVP here
- Monday, October 20, ColoradoBuildingWorkshop Lecture, 12:00 p.m.Katie McDonald and Kyle Schumann, After Architecture, Founders, University of Virginia, Assistant Professors. RSVP here
View lecture and exhibition series website with full series listings here.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Giraffe Exhibit Construction Tour and Networking
Thursday, October 23, from 5 – 6:30pm, grab your hard hats and join SMPS Colorado for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s exciting new Giraffe Exhibit! This isn’t your average construction site visit—led by the General Contractor, Architect, and key trade partners, you’ll get an insider look at the $40 million expansion that’s transforming how guests and giraffes connect. From the towering new giraffe barn to the expanded outdoor habitat and interactive feeding zones, you’ll see how this project is raising the bar for animal care and guest experience. Use diccount code “GiraffeAIA” to get $50 SMPS member pricing. More information and RSVP here.
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
2025 AIA Compensation & Benefits Report
Compensation is one of the most critical—and most sensitive—topics in architecture. That’s why AIA collects and analyzes data from hundreds of architecture firms to produce the industry’s most comprehensive, trusted, and current report on salary and benefits. The 2025 edition delivers a clear picture of how firms structure salaries, benefits, professional development, and workplace practices. For firms, it’s an indispensable resource for recruitment, retention, and equity. For individuals, it offers the insights you need to make informed career decisions and evaluate opportunities with confidence. Learn more and purchase the report here.
AIA Colorado has copies of the 2025 report available for members to view at AIA Colorado’s offices at the Alliance Center. If you’d like to schedule a time to view the report, please inquire here.
AIA selects new EVP/CEO
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Board of Directors voted unanimously to select Carole Wedge, FAIA, NOMA, LEED AP, as the next AIA Executive Vice President/Chief Executive Officer. Wedge brings experience and vision that align directly with AIA’s mission: to empower and inspire architects to improve society and transform the world. The 2020 recipient of the AIA Edward C. Kemper Award, Wedge played a pivotal role in founding the AIA Women’s Leadership Summit. Under her leadership, AIA will continue to advocate for architects and support their efforts to design a better world. This includes fostering equitable, resilient communities and advancing public health, safety, and welfare through the transformative power of design. Read more here.
Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS)
Experience the AEC industry’s premier event dedicated to accelerating women into leadership positions in architecture, design, and the allied building industries in Atlanta, November 3–5, 2025! WLS 2025 is three days of networking, education, community, and inspiration designed to create gender equity for women in AEC and change their workplace opportunities and experience. More information and registration here.
Business conditions for architecture firms continue to be weak, AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Reports
The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) continues to weaken posting a score of 46.2 for July, down from 46.8 in June, indicating that a majority of firms are still experiencing declining firm billings. Read more at AIA.
Premier Partner Spotlight
With a history that dates back over 100 years, IMEG Corp. grew from several firms coming together under one uniting vision: people-centered engineering. As a national engineering and design consulting company IMEG intentionally localized a focus to serve carefully chosen regions and markets, allowing them to put relationships and communities first, without sacrificing expertise.
IMEG’s specialties are high-performing building systems, infrastructure, program management and construction-related services, but the secret to the success is found in a deep bench of 1,600 team members. For IMEG, people-centered engineering is about more than the people served — it’s representative of the engaged employee culture they’ve worked hard to create. IMEG believes in investing in their people and their professional futures through continuous training, community involvement and the ability to develop a niche specialty.
See IMEG’s AIA Continuing Education Courses
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:
AIA Colorado Firm Directory
- Add your firm to the directory here.
Save the Dates:
- 2025 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference
- November 12-14, 2025 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO.
- Expo Hall is open
- September 1 – October 31: attendee registration is open
- View Conference Schedule
- Sponsorship
AIA Colorado & NOMA Colorado Host “State of DEI” Roundtable
AIA Colorado & NOMA Colorado Host
“State of DEI” Roundtable
On Wednesday, September 24, AIA Colorado’s JEDI Committee partnered with NOMA Colorado to host The State of DEI in Colorado: What’s Next for the Architecture Profession? The event brought together architects, students, firm leaders, and community members to discuss the future of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the profession at a moment when such efforts face pushback at both the federal and state levels. The discussion benefitted from the participation of many visiting professionals from the Large Firm Roundtable.
The program was facilitated by Nichole Sorhaindo, AIA National’s Managing Director for EDI Strategies. Nichole opened with national data showing that while a more diverse generation is entering architecture schools, firm leadership remains less representative. She was joined by four panelists who shared insights from their work and communities: Jason Pugh, AIA (Gensler), Margarita Gonzalez, Assoc. AIA (Minidwell), Kevin Nguyen, AIA (Regular Architecture), and Kari Lawson, AIA (HDR).
Panelists emphasized that inclusive design must go beyond compliance to create meaningful experiences. Examples ranged from restaurant seating designed so every guest shares the same perspective, to community-driven planning for historic neighborhood projects. The conversation highlighted that listening, trust-building, and cultural responsiveness are essential tools for architects serving diverse communities.
They also stressed the importance of mentorship and pipeline programs. Initiatives such as HDR’s partnerships with Denver Public Schools, Gensler’s GAP apprenticeship program, and grassroots efforts like AIA Colorado’s Design Like a Girl help open doors for young people who might not otherwise consider architecture a viable career. Panelists placed particular emphasis on supporting students and immigrants pursuing alternate pathways to licensure. Participants further underscored the need to expand cross-profession partnerships, create psychologically safe workplaces, and ensure that diverse leadership is visible at every level. As one speaker noted, “You can’t be what you don’t see.”
The dialogue acknowledged challenges, including shrinking DEI positions within firms and shifting policy landscapes. Jason highlighted challenges faced by Gensler as a global organization and federal contractor, such as navigating conflicting federal and state regulations and developing inclusive policies applicable across offices. He noted that the DEI conversation often gets bogged down in the specificity of language when it should be focused on dismantling divisive and predatory systems. Margarita emphasized that architecture is a global language and that architects can lead efforts to foster collaboration across cultures and language barriers.
Following the panel, participants split into small groups for breakout discussions, where attendees shared personal experiences and brainstormed strategies for action.
This unique event reinforced that equity in architecture is not just a professional priority but also a responsibility to the communities architects serve. The evening closed with a call to continue building a collaborative network—composed of AIA, NOMA, local firms, educators, and community partners—that can sustain and grow DEI efforts in the profession.
Panelists
- Jason Pugh, NOMAC, AIA, AICP, LEED AP — Principal Architect, Gensler
- Margarita Gonzalez, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP BD+C — Founder, Minidwell; Teacher, CEC Early College
- Kevin Nguyen, AIA — Owner, Regular Architecture; 2025 AIA Colorado Architect of the Year
- Kari Lawson, AIA — Architect, HDR
Congratulations to 2025 Architect of the Year
Kevin Nguyen, AIA
The Award
This award recognizes an individual architect who has made significant impact on the profession of architecture in Colorado. The criteria state they have developed a portfolio of notable, creative, and meaningful architecture that has positively impacted Colorado, they have pushed architecture toward the future while also honoring its past, become widely known for the quality of their work by architects, designers, educators, and the public, have advocated for fellow architects and advanced the community through their service and leadership, and have helped to address current issues in Colorado by using their expertise as a design professional.
Presented by Adam Wagoner, AIA
Founder, High, Low, Buffalo.
2024 AIA Colorado Architect of the Year
Kevin Nguyen, AIA, Owner, Regular Architecture
Our recipient for 2025 not only represents exceptional stewardship of design but also exemplifies the power of the profession of architecture within a community.
Kevin possesses a remarkable ability to translate a chef’s vision and story into immersive and celebrated dining experiences. His designs, lauded by both critics and the Colorado community, have redefined the city’s culinary landscape, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after partner for restaurateurs and as a force in hospitality design. His focus on the experience of the end user makes his design not only functional but also a place to create lasting memories.
Beyond his achievements in design, Kevin is a dedicated advocate for lifting up others in the profession and community. Through Regular Architecture, he actively seeks opportunities to mentor emerging architects, providing guidance and support through programs like Immersion Workshop and ACE Mentoring Program.
Additionally, Kevin’s commitment to serving the underserved is evident in Regular Architecture’s pro-bono work, providing design services for community-based organizations like the Social Fabric Community Hub and countless volunteer hours with Food For Thought. His unwavering dedication to mentorship, community service, and design excellence truly sets him apart among this year’s applicants.
The jury was loudly unanimous in their decision and is thrilled to announce Kevin Nguyen as 2025 AIA Colorado Architect of the Year. Congratulations!
The annual AIA Colorado Awards honor the outstanding work of members and their firms, reinforce the value of great architecture, and highlight member contributions to positive change.
2025 Young Architect of the Year • Kaylyn Kirby, AIA
Congratulations to 2025 Young Architect of the Year
Kaylyn Kirby, AIA
The Award
The AIA Colorado Young Architect Award recognizes the individual achievements of a young architect licensed to practice architecture fewer than 10 years. This individual will have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the architecture profession early in their career.
Presented by Tyler Wurr, AIA
RTA Architects
2025 AIA Colorado South Director
Kaylyn Kirby, AIA, Associate Principal, Semple Brown
For the 2025 Young Architect of the Year award, the jury had no shortage of talent to deliberate over. So first, we would like to acknowledge the fantastic applicants this year, and we hope you will consider applying next year.
In a year filled with remarkable nominees, Kaylyn Kirby’s nomination truly distinguished itself. It is a privilege to recognize her with this well-earned honor.
Kaylyn is an Associate Principal at Semple Brown where she has been practicing since 2017. Kaylyn is unwavering in her commitment to the profession and its people; anyone who knows her would say the same.
Kaylyn’s dedication to mentorship is especially admirable. She is both a mentor and a true leader in her daily studio environment, and in her volunteer activities. Kaylyn has served numerous roles to elevate and guide emerging professionals and young architects, including the AIA Colorado EP/YA Leadership Council, as a mentor for the AIA Colorado Ascend Mentorship Program, and as the Young Architect’s Forum representative, to name just a few. Her commitment to the next generation of architects is an inspiration to all.
Guided by a deep passion for design excellence, Kaylyn creates spaces that transform and improve the places where we live, work, and gather. From large mixed-use and multifamily projects to historic rehabilitations and renovations, her impressive portfolio spans multiple project types. From the local level to the national stage, Kaylyn’s contributions have strengthened our profession and enriched its people.
Congratulations!
The annual AIA Colorado Awards honor the outstanding work of members and their firms, reinforce the value of great architecture, and highlight member contributions to positive change.