Category: AIA CO News

In this Newsletter:

• Design + Honor Awards event Thursday, Sept. 12th
• AIA Colorado opposes Boulder County house site plan review moratorium
• Health Horizon 24 half-day symposium
• Design Like a Girl volunteer opportunities 
• AIA membership dues auto-renewal program
• Practice + Design Conference attendee registration and Expo Hall open
• Wild Bear Nature Center tour Sept. 5th
• West Virtual Connect Sept. 10th
• AIA 2030 Commitment: Implementation & Case Studies Sept 11th
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: AISC

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

Thursday, September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

We look forward to welcoming you at 5:30pm to Mile High Station where you’ll enjoy delicious food and signature craft cocktails, and an event program beginning right at 7pm. Mile High Soul Club will be spinning vinyl records and photographers will be on hand to capture photos of winners and attendees on the red carpet in front of the photo wall.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it.

Buy your tickets soon as Late Registration goes into effect August 31st!

AIA Colorado opposes Boulder County house site plan review moratorium

Boulder County is proposing to reduce the maximum allowed size of houses in unincorporated portions of the county. While this policy is being finalized, the County is proposing a moratorium on applications for houses greater than the nearby median home size. AIA Colorado believes a moratorium will do immediate harm to all our members affected. Existing projects not ready to be immediately submitted for review will go on hold and in many cases be cancelled entirely. If the final policy adoption results in widespread inability of property owners to proceed with their preferred house projects, it will result in long-term negative consequences for architects affected.

If your architecture practice does residential work in unincorporated Boulder County, we encourage you to review the proposed changes and public meeting details here, then share how the moratorium will affect you. In person and online testimony on the moratorium (not the final policy details) will be accepted at a September 17th public meeting with the Boulder County Commissioners. You may submit letters to them ahead of time to Ethan Abner, County Planner (longrange@bouldercounty.gov) by 5pm, September 16th.

If you have questions about this effort or are looking for advice on how to effectively participate in the upcoming public meeting, please contact Nikolaus Remus at 303-228-3914 or nikolaus@aiacolorado.org.

Thank you to Board President-Elect Scott Rodwin, AIA for bringing this to AIA Colorado’s attention as an affected architect. Members are also welcome to contact Scott with questions or concerns about this effort.

Design Like a Girl

After a successful program launch last school year, the AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. Committee is looking forward to offering the program to students this year and is seeking mentors to participate in the workshops this year. Design Like a Girl introduces a diverse cohort of middle school girls to architecture and allied design professions. Three full-day workshops, on Fridays throughout the 2024-2025 school year, allow students to learn first-hand about these dynamic careers from local professional women and design students. The committee is seeking female-identifying design professionals and students to guide, instruct, and inspire participants throughout each workshop. Multiple volunteer options are available. More info and signup here.

Health Horizons 2024

This October 15th, join the Academy of Architecture for Health and Women in Healthcare for an engaging half-day symposium on the future of healthcare. We will explore emerging industry-wide issues including challenges faced by nurses and clinicians, increasing costs and construction schedules, and technological advancements like Artificial Intelligence. Together, we will discuss both the challenges and opportunities ahead, seeking to navigate these changes while prioritizing the human experience.

This event, held at the CSU Spur facility in Denver, is tailored for those in care delivery and healthcare facility design and construction, with continuing education credits provided for a variety of disciplines. The day starts with networking and a light breakfast, followed by guest presentations and a lively panel discussion. After a brief break, participants will have the opportunity to engage in a design thinking workshop and envision the future of healthcare together. More info and register here.

AIA membership dues auto-renewal program

Introduced in October 2023, the auto-renewal program offers AIA members a streamlined renewal process and ensures a member will always have an active membership. New and renewing members can enroll in the autorenewal option online before checkout. Members enrolled in autorenewal will have their dues automatically debited on December 31, 2024. The cutoff date for 2025 auto-renewal enrollments is September 30, 2024. Program enrollments occurring between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, will apply to the 2026 renewal year.

Conference registration open

Join us at Keystone Resort for Tech Connect November 13th and GENERATE 2024 Practice + Design Conference November 14 – 15. Stay tuned for upcoming keynote speaker announcements, breakout session details, and Tech Connect event info. Early registration is now open through August 31st. If you already know that you’re planning to attend, lock in your registration today and save!

Conference Expo Hall open

Know a company that serves your firm and clients really well? The AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference expo hall is now open and only a few booths remain!

Wild Bear Nature Center Tour

Thursday, September 5th, join AIA members for a tour of the Wild Bear Nature Center led by Arch11. The architecture of Nederland’s Wild Bear Nature Center aligns with the center’s curriculum as a teaching tool revealing phenomena and fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world. The net-positive design weaves together core values of the Institution: Education, Sustainability, Stewardship, and Community. From project siting to the selection and detailing of materials, the design is bound to the situation of place; both natural and human centric. The building, as a living organism, will provide opportunities to teach about the natural, its physical properties and how we inhabit it. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP for Sept 5th

West Virtual Connect

Tuesday, September 10th, join West Director Andi Korber, AIA, and connect virtually with other Western Slope members for a time of conversation. Many of us are facing the same challenges day after day and we will gather quarterly to share concerns, goals, and ideas for Western Colorado AIA membership.

RSVP here.

Watch Session #1: Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment here.

AIA 2030 Commitment Session #2: Implementation & Case Studies

Wednesday, September 11th, join the AIA Colorado Committee on the Environment for Member Education Session #2: Implementation & Case Studies. Don’t worry if you missed Session #1, there will be helpful information and discussion whether you are already participating in the AIA 2030 Commitment or are looking to join. A few of the topics discussed will include: A few of the topics discussed will include:

• An overview of Session #1, including 2030 Commitment current goals and benchmarks.
• Examples case study projects targeting net zero energy and water efficiency.
• Key tools and resources used during project development to support goals for efficiency and meeting AIA 2030 benchmarks.
• Understand how fluctuations in modeling impact and support decision making during the design process.
• The benefits of having an integrated team support the project at all phases of development.

A Q+A session will follow the presentation. This virtual Zoom session has been submitted for 1 LU|HSW. RSVP here.

Month of Modern 

During the month of September, Boulder will be alive with Month of Modern (MoM). Founded in 2014 as a celebration of architecture, design, lifestyle, art and culture—MoM’s mission is to cultivate a conversation about Colorado modern, and present the Boulder region as one of the nation’s most vibrant hubs of modern design. This year’s MoM kicks off Friday, September 6th, with “Architecture after AI” at Bus Stop Gallery. See all of this month’s MoM events here.

Listen & Learn: Free Mountain Region Net Zero Codes Listen & Learn

Join Walking Mountains, CORE, and CLEER for a series of community discussions on building a sustainable future in Eagle, Pitkin, and Garfield counties. These sessions will explore how our rural Colorado mountain communities can achieve net zero buildings, focusing on the future of energy codes, workforce development, and the resources needed to make it happen. At each session, you’ll discover the innovative work underway to:

• Advance net zero construction through evolving energy codes.
• Identify and fill gaps in our local workforce to support energy-efficient retrofits.
• Develop the future CORE Building Hub—a comprehensive resource center for the building industry.

Following a brief presentation, the floor will open to hear from attendees. Organizers want to hear what you need to help our region meet its climate goals and how to work together over the next decade. The full “Listen and Learn” session will be 1 hour, with an optional half hour of networking after. Be part of the conversation that will shape the future of our mountain communities! Events will be held:

• Basalt: Monday, September, 9th
• Gypsum: Wednesday September, 11th
• Vail: Thursday, September, 19th
• Glenwood Springs: Tuesday, October 1st
• Carbondale: Wednesday, October 2nd

Learn more and RSVP here.

Colorado Green Building Guild’s Green Home Tour

Saturday, September 14th, the CGBG Green Home Tour is a self-guided event that features a series of in-person open houses with unique sustainable features. Attendees can look forward to a diverse collection of architectural styles across newly constructed homes, remodels, energy retrofits, multi-family projects, all electric homes, and certified Passive House projects. Previous tours have hosted over 400 attendees including curious college students, industry professionals, and homeowners who are eager to see latest in high performance construction and learn about the techniques that make the magic happen. At the tour you can expect:

• Homes of different sizes and shapes, that strive to be healthier, more energy efficient, and more resilient
• Information about the details that make them successful, and project representatives that can answer questions
• A choose-your-own adventure, visiting homes at your leisure
• A great after-party full of your favorite local CGBG members and friends

Visit the event website here. Buy tickets here.

Upcoming CAP Fall lecture series

• Monday, September 16, 6pm – Rick Sommerfeld, AIA, CU Denver CAP, Colorado Building Workshop, Associate Professor and Director 
• Monday, September 23, 4pm – M. Elen Deming, North Carolina State University Professor, Director of Doctor of Design Program 
• Thursday, October 3, 12pm – Brittany Utting and Daniel “DJ” Jacobs, Rice University, Assistant Professor and University of Houston, Instructional Assistant Professor HOME-Office, Founders 

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

Doors open Denver

Denver Architecture Foundation’s signature event is exactly as it sounds – an opportunity to open the doors to the places and spaces that make the Mile High City such a special city in which to live, work, study and play. This year, we will explore Denver’s past, present, and future with our theme Denver Through Time September 26-29. Learn more here.

Nominations now open for 2025 Mayor’s Design Awards!

Since 2005, the Mayor’s Design Awards have honored projects throughout the city for excellence in architecture, urban design, and place-making. The awards are presented to Denver homeowners, business owners, nonprofits, artists, and others for their creative contributions to Denver’s built environment through excellence and innovation. Many different types of projects are eligible. Mayor Mike Johnston and the Department of Community Planning and Development are seeking nominations for the Mayor’s Design Awards to be handed out in early 2025. Nominations are due Friday, November 1, 2024. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony early next year. Nominate a project here.

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:

• Architect / Project Architect at MA Studios
• Architect at MHK Architecture
• Project Manager at MOA Architecture

AIA Trust Week 2024: September 23-27

Back by popular demand, AIA Trust Week is back! With a free full week of two daily webinars, take advantage of a total of 10 sessions and 15 learning units!
 

Join AIA to explore what you need in order to Start your firm, Run your firm, and also – when the time comes – transition your firm to new ownership. This informative week will not only follow information we provide to you for every stage of your career in our guides, but also will feature informative sessions on all of the amazing benefits that are such a great member value you have as an AIA member. Learn from former Trustees, plan providers including Victor/CNA, Equitable, Gallagher, LegaLine and even some guest sessions by our friends at the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) and well known firm Lee/Shoemaker – 10 learning sessions, each offering 1.5 AIA CEU, one great week. See course descriptions and register here.

Women’s Leadership Summit 2024: Building Resilience

This October 8–10, 2024, held in Chicago, Illinois, experience the industry’s premier event dedicated to accelerating women into leadership positions in architecture, design, and the allied building industries. WLS 2024 is three days of networking, education, community, and inspiration designed to change the workplace experience and help create gender equity for women in AEC. Learn more and register here.

Young Architects Forum August newsletter

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

Submissions are open for variety of 2025 awards

Submissions are currently open for the 2025 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Architectural Education, Architecture Firm Award, Edward C. Kemper Award, Fellowship, Gold Medal, Honorary Fellowship, and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award. Begin your submissions here.

We’re proud to highlight one of AIA Colorado’s Premier Partners, The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), and look forward to their ongoing support and involvement serving Colorado’s architecture community.

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), headquartered in Chicago, is a non-partisan, not-for-profit technical institute and trade association established in 1921 to serve the structural steel design community and construction industry in the United States. AISC’s mission is to make structural steel the material of choice by being the leader in structural-steel-related technical and market-building activities, including specification and code development, research, education, technical assistance, quality certification, standardization, market development, and advocacy. AISC has a long tradition of service to the steel construction industry providing timely and reliable information. View AISC website.

The 2025 Forge Prize

This competition, established by The American Institute of Steel Construction in 2018, recognizes visionary emerging architects, architecture faculty, and graduate students for design concepts that embrace innovations in steel as a primary structural component. 

In short: We’re looking for your version of the future. What will people build with, live in, work in, or play in?

The Forge Prize is a unique opportunity to experiment with a conceptual design without limit to scope or complexity–the sky really is the limit here, and the industry is paying attention.

Submissions are due by 11:59 p.m. Central on November 22, 2024. Enter here

Friday, September 6th, Living Design Studios (LDSI) is hosting “Metalpalooza”, a metalworking event that will include demos, competitions, networking, a sculpture unveiling, festivities for kids of all ages, dinner, and music to mark the 30th anniversary of the company. Part of the event includes a two hour class covering project talks, a tour, blacksmithing demo, a patina demo, and a panel on architecture and technology (2 AIA CES). Learn more about Metalpalooze and RSVP here.

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Design + Honor Awards event Thursday, Sept. 12th
• Early registration for attendees and expo hall
• Design Like a Girl volunteer opportunities 
• Watch Academy of Architecture for Heath Knowledge Community event on YouTube
• Wild Bear Nature Center tour August 22nd and Sept. 5th
• Business of Architecture Roundtable: Practice Structure + Organization Sept. 3rd
• West Virtual Connect Sept. 10th
• AIA 2030 Commitment: Implementation & Case Studies Sept 11th
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: JVA Consulting Engineers

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

Thursday, September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

We look forward to welcoming you at 5:30pm to Mile High Station where you’ll enjoy delicious food and signature craft cocktails, and an event program beginning right at 7pm. Mile High Soul Club will be spinning vinyl records and photographers will be on hand to capture photos of winners and attendees on the red carpet in front of the photo wall.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it.

Buy your tickets soon as Late Registration goes into effect August 31st!

Conference early registration open

Join us at Keystone Resort for Tech Connect November 13th and GENERATE 2024 Practice + Design Conference November 14 – 15. Stay tuned for upcoming keynote speaker announcements, breakout session details, and Tech Connect event info. Early registration is now open through August 31st. If you already know that you’re planning to attend, lock in your registration today and save!

Early Registration

Conference Expo Hall open

Know a company that serves your firm and clients really well? The AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference expo hall is now open and only a few booths remain! The open floor plan of AIA Colorado’s Practice + Design Conference Expo Hall has been a huge success year after year, allowing architects and exhibitors fantastic opportunities to create genuine learning and connection.!

Reserve Expo Hall booth

Design Like a Girl

After a successful program launch last school year, the AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. Committee is looking forward to offering the program to students this year and is seeking mentors to participate in the workshops this year. Design Like a Girl introduces a diverse cohort of middle school girls to architecture and allied design professions. Three full-day workshops, on Fridays throughout the 2024-2025 school year, allow students to learn first-hand about these dynamic careers from local professional women and design students. The committee is seeking female-identifying design professionals and students to guide, instruct, and inspire participants throughout each workshop. Multiple volunteer options are available. More info and signup here.

Did you miss the Academy of Architecture for Heath Knowledge Community event last week and want to watch it? Great news! You can watch it here.

Wild Bear Nature Center Tour

Thursday, August 22nd, or Thursday, September 5th, join AIA members for a tour of the Wild Bear Nature Center led by Arch11. The architecture of Nederland’s Wild Bear Nature Center aligns with the center’s curriculum as a teaching tool revealing phenomena and fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world. The net-positive design weaves together core values of the Institution: Education, Sustainability, Stewardship, and Community. From project siting to the selection and detailing of materials, the design is bound to the situation of place; both natural and human centric. The building, as a living organism, will provide opportunities to teach about the natural, its physical properties and how we inhabit it. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

Join August 22nd Waitlist | RSVP for Sept 5th

Business of Architecture Roundtable: Practice Structure + Organization

Tuesday, September 3rd, join the AIA Colorado Business of Architecture Committee for a discussion of practice structure + organization. Topics to be discussed include:

• Starting a firm. How to decide whether to be a sole proprietor, LLC or Corporation
• Firm organization – roles, responsibilities
• Managing a remote workforce

RSVP here

West Virtual Connect

Tuesday, September 10th, join West Director Andi Korber, AIA, and connect virtually with other Western Slope members for a time of conversation. Many of us are facing the same challenges day after day and we will gather quarterly to share concerns, goals, and ideas for Western Colorado AIA membership.

RSVP here.

AIA 2030 Commitment: Implementation & Case Studies

Wednesday, September 11th, join the AIA Colorado Committee on the Environment for Member Education Session #2: Implementation & Case Studies. Don’t worry if you missed Session #1, there will be helpful information and discussion whether you are already participating in the AIA 2030 Commitment or are looking to join. A few of the topics discussed will include: A few of the topics discussed will include:

• An overview of Session #1, including 2030 Commitment current goals and benchmarks.
• Examples case study projects targeting net zero energy and water efficiency.
• Key tools and resources used during project development to support goals for efficiency and meeting AIA 2030 benchmarks.
• Understand how fluctuations in modeling impact and support decision making during the design process.
• The benefits of having an integrated team support the project at all phases of development.

A Q+A session will follow the presentation. This virtual Zoom session has been submitted for 1 LU|HSW. RSVP here.

Huili Feng, AIA, founder of Tumu Studio, was featured in the July/August 2024 edition of Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine. The article, dedicated to showcasing influential women in the design industry, provides a brief look at Huili’s journey as an architect. Read it here.

Holt Watters Field Camp, a project lead by Rick Sommerfeld, AIA, Colorado Building Workshop, and University of Colorado Denver was featured in Architizer as they ask “Building on the Edge: Can Antarctic Architecture Guide Global Sustainable Design? How do you build in the world’s coldest and harshest environment?” Read it here.

Members toured Steel House, a new 12-story office building in the RiNo neighborhood and learned about many of the LEED/well components of the project.

See more photos from the tour here.

North members enjoyed a happy hour at Rosetta Hall with the ULI Boulder committee.

The CKLDP alumni happy hour was a great time gathering scholars from the current and past classes.

Ascend also held their annual reunion last week and enjoyed time with past scholars at SAR+.

Upcoming CAP Fall lecture series

• Erin Besler, Princeton University, Assistant Professor, Besler & Sons, Founder Monday, August 26, 12pm
• Rick Sommerfeld, AIA, CU Denver CAP, Colorado Building Workshop, Associate Professor and Director Monday, September 16, 6pm
• M. Elen Deming, North Carolina State University Professor, Director of Doctor of Design Program Monday, September 23, 4pm

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

Colorado Green Building Guild’s Green Home Tour

Saturday, September 14th, the CGBG Green Home Tour is a self-guided event that features a series of in-person open houses with unique sustainable features. Attendees can look forward to a diverse collection of architectural styles across newly constructed homes, remodels, energy retrofits, multi-family projects, all electric homes, and certified Passive House projects. Previous tours have hosted over 400 attendees including curious college students, industry professionals, and homeowners who are eager to see latest in high performance construction and learn about the techniques that make the magic happen. At the tour you can expect:

• Homes of different sizes and shapes, that strive to be healthier, more energy efficient, and more resilient
• Information about the details that make them successful, and project representatives that can answer questions
• A choose-your-own adventure, visiting homes at your leisure
• A great after-party full of your favorite local CGBG members and friends

Visit the event website here. Buy tickets here.

Mentor students interested in architecture – deadline to apply extended to August 31st

Northeast Early College is seeking mentors for its students interested in engineering and allied professions like architecture. East High School is also seeking mentors for its Women in STEAM program. Mentoring is an excellent opportunity to impact the lives of high school students who might otherwise not consider architecture a career pathway. The commitment is once per month for 2.5 hours from September through April. If you’re interested, start by reviewing the mentor job description and submit an application. For cohort preference in the application, select any of the following: NEC (Northeast Early College) Engineering Group-Coach, or East High School Women in STEAM Program – 2024-2025 (Note: in the cohort options list, this cohort is labeled CU Boulder Chemical and  Biological  Engineering) or select another mentoring cohort listed here.

The application deadline has been extended to August 9th. Once applied, you will be required to complete a background check and then attend a 2-hour coach-mentor training session taking place later in August. Questions? Contact sarah@sarahgoldblatt.com.

Nominations now open for 2025 Mayor’s Design Awards!

Since 2005, the Mayor’s Design Awards have honored projects throughout the city for excellence in architecture, urban design, and place-making. The awards are presented to Denver homeowners, business owners, nonprofits, artists, and others for their creative contributions to Denver’s built environment through excellence and innovation. Many different types of projects are eligible. Mayor Mike Johnston and the Department of Community Planning and Development are seeking nominations for the Mayor’s Design Awards to be handed out in early 2025. Nominations are due Friday, November 1, 2024. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony early next year. Nominate a project here.

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:

• Project Manager at MOA Architecture
• Project Manager/Architectural Associate at Pel-Ona Architects & Urbanists
• Designer at Ferguson Pyatt Architects, Inc.

Women’s Leadership Summit 2024: Building Resilience

This October 8–10, 2024, held in Chicago, Illinois, experience the industry’s premier event dedicated to accelerating women into leadership positions in architecture, design, and the allied building industries. WLS 2024 is three days of networking, education, community, and inspiration designed to change the workplace experience and help create gender equity for women in AEC. Learn more and register here.

Submissions are open for variety of 2025 awards

Submissions are currently open for the 2025 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Architectural Education, Architecture Firm Award, Edward C. Kemper Award, Fellowship, Gold Medal, Honorary Fellowship, and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award. Begin your submissions here.

2025 AIA/ACSA Intersections Research Conference call for submissions

AIA and ACSA are currently accepting papers for the 2025 Intersections Research Conference: New Housing Paradigms to be held in Austin, Texas January 9-11, 2025 in partnership with University of Texas at Austin. Submissions are due September 4th, 2024. Apply here

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

JVA, Incorporated is a consulting engineering firm with offices in Boulder, Fort Collins, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Denver, Colorado. Since 1956, JVA has provided engineering services to architects, owners, building departments, and general contractors in Colorado and nationwide. Our Structural, Civil, and Environmental engineering departments offer highly skilled engineers who complement your experience to fully meet your design and construction needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide excellent service.

Learn More About JVA, Incorporated.

Friday, September 6th, Living Design Studios (LDSI) is hosting “Metalpalooza”, a metalworking event that will include demos, competitions, networking, a sculpture unveiling, festivities for kids of all ages, dinner, and music to mark the 30th anniversary of the company. Part of the event includes a two hour class covering project talks, a tour, blacksmithing demo, a patina demo, and a panel on architecture and technology (2 AIA CES). Learn more about Metalpalooze and RSVP here.

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Expo Hall open to current Allied members
• Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview in Castle Rock August 9th
• Public Health by Design: Shaping Healthier Environments August 13th
• Happy hour in Boulder with ULI Boulder Committee August 14th
• Steel House Denver construction tour August 15th
• Wild Bear Nature Center tour August 22nd and September 5th
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: JVA Consulting Engineers

Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview

Friday, August 9th, explore the major provisions of the International Building Code. The presentation will include discussions of the provisions addressing the following issues: occupancy classification, types of construction, means of egress, fire sprinklers and fire-resistive-rated construction, administrative provisions and accessibility. This class is designed to provide an introduction to the new provision of the code. This full-day program includes lunch. This class has been approved for 6.0 AIA LU|HSW.

RSVP here

Public Health by Design: Shaping Healthier Environments

Tuesday, August 13th, from 11am – Noon, join AIA Colorado’s Knowledge Community Academy of Architecture for Health for a virtual event to explore the intersection of public health. This session will explore the intersection of public health and design. Learn about essential public health services, health equity, and the social determinants of health (SDOH). Discover strategies to create healthy, equitable communities through case studies on transportation safety, food policy, and housing initiatives. Understand the role of data, community engagement, and multidisciplinary collaboration in enhancing public health outcomes, and learn how designers can effectively partner with public health professionals on healthcare projects. This virtual event has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP here

AIA Colorado & ULI Boulder Happy Hour

August 14th, from 5 – 7pm, join AIA Colorado North members and ULI Boulder Committee members for a happy hour and mixer at Postino’s on Pearl Street.

RSVP here

Steel House Denver Construction Tour

Thursday, August 15th, join the Denver Local Advisors for a construction tour of Steel House, a new 12-story office building coming soon to the RiNo neighborhood. open studio architecture and GE Johnson Construction will conduct a 10-minute introduction and overview of a 12-floor building currently under construction in RiNo. From there, the tour will commence up from level 1 to the 12th floor, to tour a typical floor. We will then proceed to level 6 to review the amenities spaces, including outdoor terraces, basketball court, fitness center, and conference spaces. The tour will highlight LEED/well components of the project. Tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP here

Wild Bear Nature Center Tour

Thursday, August 22nd, or Thursday, September 5th, join AIA members for a tour of the Wild Bear Nature Center led by Arch11. The architecture of Nederland’s Wild Bear Nature Center aligns with the center’s curriculum as a teaching tool revealing phenomena and fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world. The net-positive design weaves together core values of the Institution: Education, Sustainability, Stewardship, and Community. From project siting to the selection and detailing of materials, the design is bound to the situation of place; both natural and human centric. The building, as a living organism, will provide opportunities to teach about the natural, its physical properties and how we inhabit it. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

Join August 22nd Waitlist | RSVP for Sept 5th

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Design + Honor Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it!

Call for Entries: Denver’s Single Stair Housing Challenge

SAR+ is looking to build on recent momentum surrounding the single stair topic by hosting a competition, inviting participants worldwide to envision how Point Access Blocks can greatly impact the essential missing middle housing in Colorado. Their stated goal to challenge the current constraints and boundaries to potentially reform these restrictive building codes. More information about the competition and registration can be found here. 

Mentor students interested in architecture – deadline to apply extended to August 9th

Northeast Early College is seeking mentors for its students interested in engineering and allied professions like architecture. East High School is also seeking mentors for its Women in STEAM program. Mentoring is an excellent opportunity to impact the lives of high school students who might otherwise not consider architecture a career pathway. The commitment is once per month for 2.5 hours from September through April. If you’re interested, start by reviewing the mentor job description and submit an application. For cohort preference in the application, select any of the following: NEC (Northeast Early College) Engineering Group-Coach, or East High School Women in STEAM Program – 2024-2025 (Note: in the cohort options list, this cohort is labeled CU Boulder Chemical and  Biological  Engineering) or select another mentoring cohort listed here.

The application deadline has been extended to August 9th. Once applied, you will be required to complete a background check and then attend a 2-hour coach-mentor training session taking place later in August. Questions? Contact sarah@sarahgoldblatt.com.

Colorado Green Building Guild’s Annual Green Home Tour

Sign up your home to be part of the Colorado Green Building Guild’s Annual Green Home Tour on September 14th! The tour highlights some of the most innovative green building projects in the Front Range and helps to promote the collaborative exchange of ideas on green building in the community. To get involved or sign up your home, fill out this intake form here, or direct questions to admin@cgbg.org. More information about the event can be found here.

Docomomo Modernism Series 

Taking place this August, check out their series of walking tours, from Littleton’s Mid Mod Mile to the US Air Force Academy Chapel in Colorado Springs, and connect with others advocating for the preservation, conservation, and adaptive reuse of modern-era architecture. Tour listings and RSVPs here.

City of Denver hosting two virtual town halls on the citywide ADUs project

As part of the Denver’s ongoing effort to expand housing availability and choice, the city is looking at potential updates to the Denver Zoning Code, zoning map, and Former Chapter 59 zoning to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all residential areas of the city. You’re invited to participate in an upcoming virtual town hall on Zoom to learn more about the proposed zoning code text amendment and what it might mean for your property. The same information will be presented at both town halls. Additionally, a draft of the text amendment will be available for public review and comment in the coming days on the Citywide ADUs project page. 
Town Hall #1: Thursday, August 8, 6 pm|  Town Hall #2: Wednesday, August 21, 6 pm

Earthworks and Land Art of Herbert Bayer

Join landscape architect Ann Mullins, on a tour of the earthworks and land art of Herbert Bayer on the Bauhaus-inspired, Bayer-designed Aspen Institute Campus. Offered on select Fridays at 11:00 am. More information and registration found here. 

Denver Zoning Code text amendment bundle public review draft available

Just like infrastructure needs maintenance to stay in top condition, the Denver Zoning Code also needs regular upgrades to continue to respond to the needs of the city. The goal of text amendment bundles is to keep our zoning code modern, clear, and user-friendly. Review and comment on the public draft here.

Nominations now open for 2025 Mayor’s Design Awards!

Since 2005, the Mayor’s Design Awards have honored projects throughout the city for excellence in architecture, urban design, and place-making. The awards are presented to Denver homeowners, business owners, nonprofits, artists, and others for their creative contributions to Denver’s built environment through excellence and innovation. Many different types of projects are eligible. Mayor Mike Johnston and the Department of Community Planning and Development are seeking nominations for the Mayor’s Design Awards to be handed out in early 2025. Nominations are due Friday, November 1, 2024. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony early next year. Nominate a project here.

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:

• Architect / Project Architect at Arapahoe Architects
• Project Architect/Intern Architect at Spencer Architecture Studio. LLC
• Architect / Project Architect at MA Studios

Next to Lead Applications Are Open

To create an architecture profession that serves everyone, we must include everyone. That’s why AIA created Next to Lead—an association and professional leadership program that removes barriers to AIA volunteer leadership positions for racially and ethnically diverse women in architecture. Racially and ethnically diverse women who are AIA members and have at least five years of experience in architecture are invited to apply for the upcoming 2024 Next to Lead program! Submissions close August 13. Apply at AIA.

Submissions are open for variety of 2025 awards

Submissions are currently open for the 2025 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Architectural Education, Architecture Firm Award, Edward C. Kemper Award, Fellowship, Gold Medal, Honorary Fellowship, and Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award. Begin your submissions here.

2025 AIA/ACSA Intersections Research Conference call for submissions

AIA and ACSA are currently accepting papers for the 2025 Intersections Research Conference: New Housing Paradigms to be held in Austin, Texas January 9-11, 2025 in partnership with University of Texas at Austin. Submissions are due September 4th, 2024. Apply here

How today’s 3D-printed projects could shape tomorrow’s urban landscape

What if we could 3D-print entire cities? Speculate on the future applications that emerging 3D printing technologies may unlock. Read at Architizer

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

JVA, Incorporated is a consulting engineering firm with offices in Boulder, Fort Collins, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Denver, Colorado. Since 1956, JVA has provided engineering services to architects, owners, building departments, and general contractors in Colorado and nationwide. Our Structural, Civil, and Environmental engineering departments offer highly skilled engineers who complement your experience to fully meet your design and construction needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide excellent service.

Learn More About JVA, Incorporated.

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Conference Call for Presentations submission window closes in 1 week
• CKLDP Summer Recap
• Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview in Castle Rock August 9th
• Public Health by Design: Shaping Healthier Environments
• Happy hour in Boulder with ULI Boulder Committee August 14th
• Steel House Denver construction tour August 15th
• Wild Bear Nature Center tour August 22nd
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations now open

The Practice + Design Conference brings together the community of architects in Colorado for inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods, and practical innovations from industry partners. We’re interested in hearing from those in our community who are ready to contribute and lead a session at Keystone.

If you have a presentation in mind, visit the link below and start your submission today. Or, if you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to create a submission. The submission window closes Wednesday, July 31st at 5pm.

CKLDP Summer Recap 

At this stage in the summer, AIA Colorado’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program is now officially past the halfway mark. Sessions 3, 4, and 5 focused on community engagement, business development and entrepreneurship, and contracts and negotiation, detailed in this summer’s recap. Continuing to build skills in areas that are oftentimes beyond daily exposure for emerging professionals, provides participants the opportunity to form a cohort with other emerging professionals in the field of architecture (sixteen are selected each year from a group of well-qualified applicants), developing their skills on several focused topics in the once-a-month sessions throughout the year. 

Read the Summer Recap here.

Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview

Friday, August 9th, explore the major provisions of the International Building Code. The presentation will include discussions of the provisions addressing the following issues: occupancy classification, types of construction, means of egress, fire sprinklers and fire-resistive-rated construction, administrative provisions and accessibility. This class is designed to provide an introduction to the new provision of the code. This full-day program includes lunch. This class has been approved for 6.0 AIA LU|HSW.

RSVP here

Public Health by Design: Shaping Healthier Environments

Tuesday, August 13th, from 11am – Noon, join AIA Colorado’s Knowledge Community Academy of Architecture for Health for a virtual event to explore the intersection of public health. This session will explore the intersection of public health and design. Learn about essential public health services, health equity, and the social determinants of health (SDOH). Discover strategies to create healthy, equitable communities through case studies on transportation safety, food policy, and housing initiatives. Understand the role of data, community engagement, and multidisciplinary collaboration in enhancing public health outcomes, and learn how designers can effectively partner with public health professionals on healthcare projects. This virtual event has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP here

AIA Colorado & ULI Boulder Happy Hour

August 14th, from 5 – 7pm, join AIA Colorado North members and ULI Boulder Committee members for a happy hour and mixer at Postino’s on Pearl Street.

RSVP here

Steel House Denver Construction Tour

Thursday, August 15th, join the Denver Local Advisors for a construction tour of Steel House, a new 12-story office building coming soon to the RiNo neighborhood. open studio architecture and GE Johnson Construction will conduct a 10-minute introduction and overview of a 12-floor building currently under construction in RiNo. From there, the tour will commence up from level 1 to the 12th floor, to tour a typical floor. We will then proceed to level 6 to review the amenities spaces, including outdoor terraces, basketball court, fitness center, and conference spaces. The tour will highlight LEED/well components of the project. Tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP here

Wild Bear Nature Center Tour

Thursday, August 22nd, join AIA members for a tour of the Wild Bear Nature Center led by Arch11. The architecture of Nederland’s Wild Bear Nature Center aligns with the center’s curriculum as a teaching tool revealing phenomena and fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world. The net-positive design weaves together core values of the Institution: Education, Sustainability, Stewardship, and Community. From project siting to the selection and detailing of materials, the design is bound to the situation of place; both natural and human centric. The building, as a living organism, will provide opportunities to teach about the natural, its physical properties and how we inhabit it. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.

RSVP here

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Design + Honor Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it!

Congratulations to Avik K Guha, AIA, for appointment by Governor Polis to The State Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors!

Mentor students interested in architecture

Northeast Early College is seeking mentors for its students interested in engineering and allied professions like architecture. East High School is also seeking mentors for its Women in STEAM program. Mentoring is an excellent opportunity to impact the lives of high school students who might otherwise not consider architecture a career pathway. The commitment is typically once per month for 2.5 hours from September through April. If you’re interested, start by reviewing the mentor job description and submit an application. For cohort preference in the application, you can select in any order: NEC (Northeast Early College) Engineering Group-Coach, EngineeringConnect, or East High School Women in STEAM Program – 2024-2025, or another program focus or location of interest to you. The application deadline is July 31st. Once applied, you will be required to complete a background check and then attend a coach mentor training session, a 2-hour orientation and training taking place this Fall. Questions? Reach out to sarah@sarahgoldblatt.com.

Shigeru Ban in Conversation with Hans Ulrich Obrist at Aspen Art Museum

Friday, August 2nd, the Aspen Art Museum is hosting a conversation between Shigeru Ban and Hans Ulrich Obrist. On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the museum’s renowned building on the corner of Hyman and Spring streets, Ban and Obrist will discuss the architect’s singular approach to materials, and his ongoing efforts in disaster relief architecture. This event is free to attend and space is limited. Register here.

Colorado Green Building Guild’s Annual Green Home Tour

Sign up your home to be part of the Colorado Green Building Guild’s Annual Green Home Tour on September 14th! The tour highlights some of the most innovative green building projects in the Front Range and helps to promote the collaborative exchange of ideas on green building in the community. To get involved or sign up your home, fill out this intake form here, or direct questions to admin@cgbg.org. More information about the event can be found here.

City of Denver hosting two virtual town halls on the citywide ADUs project

As part of the Denver’s ongoing effort to expand housing availability and choice, the city is looking at potential updates to the Denver Zoning Code, zoning map, and Former Chapter 59 zoning to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all residential areas of the city. You’re invited to participate in an upcoming virtual town hall on Zoom to learn more about the proposed zoning code text amendment and what it might mean for your property. The same information will be presented at both town halls. Additionally, a draft of the text amendment will be available for public review and comment in the coming days on the Citywide ADUs project page. 
Town Hall #1: Thursday, August 8, 6 pm|  Town Hall #2: Wednesday, August 21, 6 pm

Earthworks and Land Art of Herbert Bayer

Join landscape architect Ann Mullins, on a tour of the earthworks and land art of Herbert Bayer on the Bauhaus-inspired, Bayer-designed Aspen Institute Campus. Offered on select Fridays at 11:00 am. More information and registration found here. 

Denver Zoning Code text amendment bundle public review draft available

Just like infrastructure needs maintenance to stay in top condition, the Denver Zoning Code also needs regular upgrades to continue to respond to the needs of the city. The goal of text amendment bundles is to keep our zoning code modern, clear, and user-friendly. Review and comment on the public draft here.

Nominations now open for 2025 Mayor’s Design Awards!

Since 2005, the Mayor’s Design Awards have honored projects throughout the city for excellence in architecture, urban design, and place-making. The awards are presented to Denver homeowners, business owners, nonprofits, artists, and others for their creative contributions to Denver’s built environment through excellence and innovation. Many different types of projects are eligible. Mayor Mike Johnston and the Department of Community Planning and Development are seeking nominations for the Mayor’s Design Awards to be handed out in early 2025. Nominations are due Friday, November 1, 2024. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony early next year. Nominate a project here.

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:

• Architect / Project Architect at MA Studios
• Project Manager/Architectural Associate at Pel-Ona Architects & Urbanists
• Project Manager at Bldg Seed Architects

Young Architects Forum July newsletter

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

Next to Lead Applications Are Open

To create an architecture profession that serves everyone, we must include everyone. That’s why AIA created Next to Lead—an association and professional leadership program that removes barriers to AIA volunteer leadership positions for racially and ethnically diverse women in architecture. Racially and ethnically diverse women who are AIA members and have at least five years of experience in architecture are invited to apply for the upcoming 2024 Next to Lead program! Apply at AIA.

Billings at Architecture Firms Remain in Decline, AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Reports

Business conditions remained soft at architecture firms in June with the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) reporting a score of 46.4. Read at AIA.

Construction spending gains projected this year, expected to stall in 2025

Spending on nonresidential buildings is projected to increase more than 7% this year, according to The American Institute of Architects mid-year Consensus Construction Forecast. The spending will slow to only 2% in 2025 as market challenges continue to impact the pace of growth. Read at AIA.

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 the Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood Premier Partner page to view AIA CES course offered, see case studies, and learn about specification information.

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Conference Call for Presentations submission window is open
• Design + Honor Awards Event
• Happy hour in Denver at Union Station July 18th
• Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview in Castle Rock August 9th
• Happy hour in Boulder with ULI Boulder Committee August 14th
• Steel House Denver construction tour August 15th
• Wild Bear Nature Center tour August 22nd
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations now open

The Practice + Design Conference brings together the community of architects in Colorado for inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods, and practical innovations from industry partners. We’re interested in hearing from those in our community who are ready to contribute and lead a session at Keystone.

If you have a presentation in mind, visit the link below and start your submission today. Or, if you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to create a submission. The submission window closes Wednesday, July 31st at 5pm.

Happy Hour in Denver at Union Station

Thursday, July 18th, from 4 – 6pm, join the Denver Local Advisors, AIA members, and prospective members for a Summer happy hour on the patio at Union Station. Spot the AIA Colorado banners and you’ll know that you’re in the right place! Drinks and food will be available for purchase.
RSVP here

Code Class: 2021 IBC Overview

Friday, August 9th, explore the major provisions of the International Building Code. The presentation will include discussions of the provisions addressing the following issues: occupancy classification, types of construction, means of egress, fire sprinklers and fire-resistive-rated construction, administrative provisions and accessibility. This class is designed to provide an introduction to the new provision of the code. This full-day program includes lunch. This class has been approved for 6.0 AIA LU|HSW.
RSVP here

AIA Colorado & ULI Boulder Happy Hour

August 14th, from 5 – 7pm, join AIA Colorado North members and ULI Boulder Committee members for a happy hour and mixer at Postino’s on Pearl Street.
RSVP here

Steel House Denver Construction Tour

Thursday, August 15th, join the Denver Local Advisors for a construction tour of Steel House, a new 12-story office building coming soon to the RiNo neighborhood. 

open studio architecture and GE Johnson Construction will conduct a 10-minute introduction and overview of a 12-floor building currently under construction in RiNo. From there, the tour will commence up from level 1 to the 12th floor, to tour a typical floor. We will then proceed to level 6 to review the amenities spaces, including outdoor terraces, basketball court, fitness center, and conference spaces. The tour will highlight LEED/well components of the project. Tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
RSVP here

Wild Bear Nature Center Tour

Thursday, August 22nd, join AIA members for a tour of the Wild Bear Nature Center led by Arch11. The architecture of Nederland’s Wild Bear Nature Center aligns with the center’s curriculum as a teaching tool revealing phenomena and fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world. The net-positive design weaves together core values of the Institution: Education, Sustainability, Stewardship, and Community. From project siting to the selection and detailing of materials, the design is bound to the situation of place; both natural and human centric. The building, as a living organism, will provide opportunities to teach about the natural, its physical properties and how we inhabit it. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW. RSVP here

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Design + Honor Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it!

Sean Jursnick, AIA, of SAR+, underscores how Paris’ low-carbon eco-district exposes a fundamental flaw in U.S. building codes. Read his thoughts in his debut Medium post, The Olympic Village: High-Performance Housing Illegal to Build in the U.S.

Tryba Architects celebrates the promotion of four Principals and two Associate Principals in Denver and Dallas-Fort Worth. Congratulations to AIA Colorado members Kathleen Fogler, AIA, Principal, Director of Urban Design, Sarah Komppa, AIA, Principal, Tommy Matthew, Assoc. AIA, Principal, Director of Design Communications, Brent Bartels, AIA, Associate Principal, and Emmett Harrison, AIA, Associate Principal!

“We found that the best way to maximize usable space on a small city lot and direct the sunlight was by getting away from having a true North orientation.” Chad Mitchell, AIA, Principal at Meridian 105 Architecture, shares about their intriguing new project in Denver’s Tennyson neighborhood in the cover story of this Summer’s Modern in Denver issue.

Pick up a copy today and view the issue online here.

Don’t get tripped up by heat pumps

Have you wanted to use heat pumps in your projects but have not known where to start? Thursday, July 11th, from 5:30 – 7:30pm, join the Colorado Green Building Guild for a presentation and Q+A session featuring four heat pump experts who will share their recommendations for implementing air source heat pumps in new residential projects throughout Colorado’s front range. Attend in person at Confluence Small Business Collective, in Lafayette, or online via Zoom. RSVP here

Denver’s mid-century modern homes walking tour

Thursday, July 11th, join Historic Denver for a walking tour of Denver’s Mid-Century Modern Homes. If you love mid-century modern, you’ll love learning about the Cliff May homes. All 170 of the homes in Denver were built in the Harvey Park neighborhood, designed to be both prefabricated and elegant in their minimalism. Local expert Atom Stevens leads this tour in southwest Denver, while also sharing his personal experience as a longtime owner of a Cliff May home. Learn more and RSVP here.

USGBC Colorado building transformation forum: distilling decarbonization

Friday, July 12th, from 4 – 6pm, Aspen Distillers, located in the Roaring Fork Valley, is a local distillery committed to fine craft, sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Distillery is on track to achieve LEED Platinum certification and is pursing Living Building Challenge. Join for a discussion on local codes sustainability initiatives in the region and the opportunities and challenges of designing for two different rating systems. This will be followed by a tour of the campus’s onsite initiatives and small a networking reception. RSVP here

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:

• Architectural Project Manager at Allred & Associates
• Architectural Associate at Foothills Architects, Ltd.
• Project Manager – Licensed Architect at Building One Consulting, LLC

Revisions to fee limitations for federal design and construction projects now final, AIA commends DoD for increase

Architects welcome the finalization of a revision to the fee limitations for architects working on construction projects within the purview of the Department of Defense (DoD) from six to ten percent. Read at AIA

Architecture business conditions decline in May, AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index reports

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score declined to 42.4 in May, as more firms reported a decrease in billings than the month prior. The ABI score is a leading economic indicator of construction activity, providing an approximately nine-to-twelve-month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction spending activity. Read at AIA

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 the Humboldt Sawmill and Allweather Wood Premier Partner page to view AIA CES course offered, see case studies, and learn about specification information.

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Design + Honor Awards Event
• Conference Call for Presentations submission window is open
• 2024 Legislative Session Summary – Part 2
• Getting started with 2030 Commitment June 20th
• Populus Hotel tours June 24th
• One River North tour June 27th
• Code Class June 28th
• Member news
• Partner news
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: JVA, Inc.

2024 Design + Honor Awards Celebration Event

September 12th, join AIA Colorado members as we unveil the recipients of the 2024 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

Connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, and expand your industry contacts as we celebrate this year’s Design + Honor Award recipients. We sincerely hope that your whole team, clients, friends, and family can join in the celebration. It will be a fantastic event and we’re looking forward to it!

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations now open

The Practice + Design Conference brings together the community of architects in Colorado for inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods, and practical innovations from industry partners. We’re interested in hearing from those in our community who are ready to contribute and lead a session at Keystone.

If you have a presentation in mind, visit the link below and start your submission today. Or, if you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to create a submission. The submission window closes Wednesday, July 31st at 5pm.

2024 Legislative Session Summary Part 2

With the 2024 legislative session in the book, let’s review the bills of interest to AIA Colorado. This year, there were 46 bills on our tracking list out of 705 introduced. Most importantly, our practice act was renewed! Five of the nine bills we supported passed and both bills we opposed failed. 2024 was a tight budget year so many bills that otherwise had a chance of passing did not have funding available.

Given the number of bills of interest to architects this year, we are reviewing highlights in both June newsletters. In this second part of the summary, we’ll cover additional bills that apply either to portions of our membership or impact the way firms are managed as businesses. Read the Legislative Session Summary Part 2 here.

Thank you to the Denver Local Advisors for organizing a tour of Populus for AIA members and to Katie Coyle, AIA, for the photos!

Last week in Fort Collins, AIA members, in conjunction with the Structural Engineers Association of Colorado (SEAC), attended a mass timber construction presentation by Chris Kendall of KL&A and Dan Craig, AIA, of SAR+. Many thanks to Chris and Dan for the presentation and to Kelly Albrecht, AIA, for the photo!

Also last week, AIA members learned about metro Denver’s economic outlook from Meredith Moon, Chief Economist and Director of Economic Competitiveness at the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, at the Alliance Center.

Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment

June 20th, from Noon – 1pm, join the AIA Colorado Committee on the Environment for Member Education Session #1: Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment. A few of the topics discussed will include:

• An understanding of the origins and current requirements of the AIA 2030 Commitment. What is it and how to become a signatory.
• Examples of successful and implemented Sustainability Action Plans.
• Compare how different size firms have found success with joining the 2030 Commitment and tracking performance data on projects.
• Investigate the online data collection platform called the DDx and what types of metrics firms are asked to collect on their projects in regard to operational and embodied carbon.

A Q+A session will follow the presentation.
RSVP here

Populus Hotel tours

Located on a prominent corner site, Populus is designed to reenergize Civic Center Park, connecting the Golden Triangle Creative District to downtown Denver. Join The Denver Local Advisors to tour this soon-to-be-iconic building. Tours have been approved for 1 LU|HSW and are available on the following dates and times:

• Thursday, June 13, from 4-5pm
• Monday, June 24, from 10-11:30am (waitlist available)
• Monday, June 24, from 11:30am – 1pm (waitlist available)

One River North tour

June 27, from 4-5:30pm, join the Denver Local Advisors to tour the project in the RiNo neighborhood that has certainly provided a captivating story with its crevasses running across its façade. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
Join waitlist

Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code overview

Friday, June 28th, in Denver, join this one-day seminar addresses the relationship of the International Existing Building Code to existing buildings. The seminar, which includes lunch, focuses on the fundamental requirements on an existing structure that undergoes repair work, alteration, renovation activity or construction of an addition, and the effect of a change in the building’s occupancy classification. Discussion will also include the “Performance Compliance Alternatives” method of evaluating a building. This class has been submitted for approval for 6 LU|HSW.
RSVP here

Upcoming events in July:

• Key to Business Resilience • July 10
• Happy Hour at Union Station • July 18

Fentress Architects wins national AIA award for DC project as the Royal Norwegian Embassy was named an AIA Interior Architecture Award 2024 winner at the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design 2024 in Washington DC, recognizing the year’s best in interior architecture and design. This project previously was awarded a 2023 AIA Colorado Design Award of Merit.

June 21st, join Shape Architecture in Steamboat Springs for a new home construction site tour built by Canadian prefab Passive House specialists, Collective Carpentry. Event hosts will each give a brief overview of their involvement with the project followed by open time to socialize and ask questions. Learn more and RSVP here.

NOMA Mid Year Celebration

June 27th, join NOMA Colorado at City Park for their 2nd annual mid-year celebration. Food, beverages, and lawn games will be provided. RSVP here

Happy hour in Boulder with ARCHITECT-ING

June 27th, meet at Rayback Collective for a casual happy hour for design aficionados to gather in Boulder! Hosted by Fernhill Construction and the ARCHITECT-ING Podcast. RSVP here

Project Pipeline – Architectural Summer Camp

July 1st – 3rd at Denver Museum of Nature & Science, join NOMA Project Pipeline Architecture Summer Camp, a 3 day summer camp for middle school students interested in architecture and design. This program introduces middle school students (ages 6-14/grades 1-8) to the profession of architecture. The students use their creative skills to develop an architectural design for a realistic site in Colorado. Students will learn and practice model making, architectural drawing, sketching, critical thinking and public speaking skills during this fun and challenging program. 
More info and RSVP here.

Denver’s mid-century modern homes walking tour

July 11th, join Historic Denver for a walking tour of Denver’s Mid-Century Modern Homes. If you love mid-century modern, you’ll love learning about the Cliff May homes. All 170 of the homes in Denver were built in the Harvey Park neighborhood, designed to be both prefabricated and elegant in their minimalism. Local expert Atom Stevens leads this tour in southwest Denver, while also sharing his personal experience as a longtime owner of a Cliff May home. Learn more and RSVP here.

USGBC Colorado Building Transformation Forum: Distilling Decarbonization

Aspen Distillers, located in the Roaring Fork Valley, is a local distillery committed to fine craft, sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Distillery is on track to achieve LEED Platinum certification and is pursing Living Building Challenge. Join for a discussion on local codes sustainability initiatives in the region and the opportunities and challenges of designing for two different rating systems. This will be followed by a tour of the campus’s onsite initiatives and small a networking reception. RSVP here

Architect-ing Podcast Features David Tryba, FAIA

In this special live podcast event, David Tryba, FAIA, founder and architect of Tryba Architects joins host Adam Wagoner, AIA, in the Colorado Room at the History Colorado Center, which was designed by David and his team. David & Adam explore themes of contextual architecture, adaptive reuse, the impact of urban design on community building and resilience in the architectural profession. David reveals the formative experiences that shaped his architectural philosophy, including his childhood, education, varied job roles, and the challenges faced in a fluctuating economy. Watch on Youtube. Listen on Apple | Spotify | Amazon | Pandora

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:

• Project Architect: 4-8 years at 4240 Architecture
• Project Manager / Project Architect at d4 Architecture
• Architect II at Fentress Architects LTD

Safety Assessment Program (SAP) evaluator training 2024

June 26-27th, join this training to be certified as Building Evaluators in the nationally recognized Safety Assessment Program (SAP). This program utilizes volunteers and mutual aid resources to provide professional engineers, architects, and certified building inspectors to assist local governments in safety evaluation of their built environment in an aftermath of a disaster. More info and sign up here.

Explore AIA national committee volunteer opportunities

Explore 70+ different AIA national committee leadership volunteer opportunities including awards juries, leadership groups, advisory councils, codes and standards, AIA Knowledge Communities, the AIA Board of Directors, the AIA Strategic Council, and more. AIA Committees and Advisory Groups are now accepting nominations to serve on committees in 2025 and the deadline to apply is July 12th. Learn more here

Young Architects Forum May newsletter

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

AIA Awards 2024 Winners Announced in Nine Project Categories

• Architecture Awards: Honoring the best contemporary architecture regardless of budget, size, style, or type. See the winners here. 
• COTE Top Ten Awards: The industry’s best-known award for sustainable design excellence. See the winners here.
• Education Facility Design Awards: Celebrating state-of-the-art learning environments, including early childhood, K-12, alternative, higher education, and non-traditional environments. See the winners here.
• Healthcare Design Awards: Recognizing the most innovative, functional, and sustainable projects in healthcare and design. Eleven winners were announced.
• Housing Awards: Honoring the best home design that showcases how beauty, safety, sustainability, and comfort come together. See the winners here.
• Interior Architecture Awards: Celebrating the most innovative and spectacular interior spaces across a range of projects. See the winners here.
• Regional & Urban Design Awards: Honoring the best in urban design, regional and city planning, and community development. See the winners here.
• Small Project Awards: Recognizing the value and design excellence that architects provide regardless of size and budget. See the winners here.
• Twenty-Five Year Award: Celebrating buildings that have set an architecture design standard of excellence for 26-35 years. See the winner here.

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

JVA is a consulting engineering firm with offices in Boulder, Fort Collins, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Denver, Colorado. Since 1956, JVA has provided engineering services to architects, owners, building departments, and general contractors in Colorado and nationwide. Our Structural, Civil, and Environmental engineering departments offer highly skilled engineers who complement your experience to fully meet your design and construction needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide excellent service.

Learn More About JVA.

Looking for Additional Resources?

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

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations
• Legislative session wrap up
• CKLDP Spring recap
• AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship
• Colorado Night at AIA24 June 6th
• West Virtual Connect June 11th
• Metro Denver Economic Outlook June 12th
• Mass Timber Construction presentation June 13th
• Populus Hotel tours June 13th and June 24th
• One River North tour June 27th
• Code Class June 28th
• Remembering Marvin Sparn, FAIA and Member news
• Safety Assessment Program (SAP) Evaluator Training 2024 and National news
• Premier Partner spotlight: JVA, Inc.

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations now open

The Practice + Design Conference brings together the community of architects in Colorado for inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods, and practical innovations from industry partners. We’re interested in hearing from those in our community who are ready to contribute and lead a session at Keystone.

This year’s theme, GENERATE, focuses on what lies ahead for our architecture profession: the sustainability and resiliency needed in our craft, the rapidly advancing technology enabling new models of delivery, and the talent required for our future workforces. Our world is rapidly changing, and no profession is better suited to guide the places we will inhabit than architects. Sub-themes this year will include REGENERATE (sustainability), REGENERATION (resiliency), GENERATIVE (technology, digital fabrication), GENERATION (future of the profession, justice equity diversity & inclusion), and of course DESIGN.

If you have a presentation in mind, visit the link below and start your submission today. Or, if you know someone who would be a great fit, encourage them to create a submission. The submission window closes Wednesday, July 31st at 5pm.

2024 Legislative Session Summary Part 1

With the 2024 legislative session in the books, let’s review the bills of interest to AIA Colorado. This year, there were 46 bills on our tracking list out of 705 introduced. Most importantly, our practice act was renewed! Five of the nine bills we supported passed and both two bills we opposed failed. 2024 was a tight budget year so many bills that otherwise had a chance of passing did not have funding available.

Given the number of bills of interest to architects this year, we’ll review highlights in both June newsletters. This week we’ll cover our practice act and the many housing-related bills introduced. Please note that while some bills are still awaiting the governor’s signature, we do not anticipate any more will get vetoed than those already noted as such. Read the Legislative Session Summary Part 1 here.

CKLDP Spring recap

Since its first program here in Colorado in 2017, AIA’s Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program provides participants the opportunity to form a cohort with other emerging professionals in the field of architecture (sixteen are selected each year from a group of well-qualified applicants), developing their skills on several focused topics in the once-a-month sessions throughout the year. The 2024 program is well underway in its eighth year, with Bootcamp, Sessions 1, and Session 2 having recently taking place. Read a recap of the first three sessions here.

AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship

Congratulations to CU Denver Architecture students Toni Alexander and Abigail Arredondo, the first-ever awardees of the AIA Colorado Fellows Scholarship. Recently, Toni joined AIA Colorado Fellows and Dean Stephanie Santorico, PhD, for a luncheon to celebrate their award.

Last week, the AIA Colorado North Local Advisors organized a private tour of the National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory where members learned about the facility and the legendary design of I.M. Pei.  

The Future of Local Sustainability Codes event, held in Basalt at the Rocky Mountain Institute, enjoyed a great discussion with local community leaders and attendees from throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.

Colorado Night at AIA24

Thursday, June 6th, connect with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Meet in the Silver Linden Room, Marriott Marquis, Washington, D.C. Join us!
RSVP here

West Virtual Connect

Tuesday, June 11, from 8-9:30am, join AIA Colorado West Director Andi Korber, AIA, and connect virtually with other Western Slope members for a time of conversation. Many of us are facing the same challenges day after day and we will gather regularly to share concerns, goals, and ideas for Western Colorado AIA membership. Hopefully, these conversations will create a springboard for more to come.
RSVP here

Metro Denver Economic Outlook

Wednesday, June 12, from 12-1pm, learn about labor market trends, consumer activity, inflation, projections on what the Fed is going to do, and other trends impacting our region’s economy.
Join waitlist

Mass Timber Construction presentation

Thursday, June 13th, from 4 – 6pm, in Fort Collins, join AIA North members and the Structural Engineers Association of Colorado (SEAC) for an overview on Mass Timber Construction. Chris Kendall of KL&A Engineers & Builders along with Dan Craig of SAR+ will present an overview of mass timber structures and constructibility concerns designers should be aware of when embarking on projects of this type. This presentation has been submitted for learning credits.
Join waitlist

Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment

June 20th, from Noon – 1pm, join the AIA Colorado Committee on the Environment for Member Education Session #1: Getting Started with the AIA 2030 Commitment. A few of the topics discussed will include:

• An understanding of the origins and current requirements of the AIA 2030 Commitment. What is it and how to become a signatory.
• Examples of successful and implemented Sustainability Action Plans.
• Compare how different size firms have found success with joining the 2030 Commitment and tracking performance data on projects.
• Investigate the online data collection platform called the DDx and what types of metrics firms are asked to collect on their projects in regard to operational and embodied carbon.

A Q+A session will follow the presentation.
RSVP here

Populus Hotel tours

Located on a prominent corner site, Populus is designed to reenergize Civic Center Park, connecting the Golden Triangle Creative District to downtown Denver. Join The Denver Local Advisors to tour this soon-to-be-iconic building. Tours have been approved for 1 LU|HSW and are available on the following dates and times:

• Thursday, June 13, from 4-5pm
• Monday, June 24, from 10-11:30am (waitlist available)
• Monday, June 24, from 11:30am – 1pm (waitlist available)

One River North tour

June 27, from 4-5:30pm, join the Denver Local Advisors to tour the project in the RiNo neighborhood that has certainly provided a captivating story with its crevasses running across its façade. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
Join waitlist

Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code overview

Friday, June 28th, in Denver, join this one-day seminar addresses the relationship of the International Existing Building Code to existing buildings. The seminar, which includes lunch, focuses on the fundamental requirements on an existing structure that undergoes repair work, alteration, renovation activity or construction of an addition, and the effect of a change in the building’s occupancy classification. Discussion will also include the “Performance Compliance Alternatives” method of evaluating a building. This class has been submitted for approval for 6 LU|HSW.
RSVP here

Upcoming events in July:

• Key to Business Resilience • July 10
• Happy Hour at Union Station • July 18

The AIA Colorado community mourns the passing of Marvin Sparn, FAIA.

“I had the good fortune to work with Marvin for about 40 years through AIA Colorado. As many know, Marv was elected president in 1991 and shortly after, due to great staffing difficulties, he and his wife, Yvonne, took over the day-to-day operation of the organization.  For nearly a year, they basically ran AIA Colorado, a daunting task, especially as a volunteer! Marv was elevated to Fellowship in 1996 in recognition of his Service to the Profession. He was instrumental in helping start the AIA Colorado College of Fellows Scholarship Fund, which just recently awarded its first two student scholarships from its $100,000 endowment. From 1998 through 2001, Marvin represent the AIA Western Mountain Region as a Director on the National AIA Board. And in 2001 was awarded the AIA/WMR Silver Medal, the highest honor the six-state region of the AIA can bestow. Marvin was a great personal friend and a prodigious friend to the AIA. His passing should be a reminder of the example he set as a tireless advocate of the profession.” — Phil Gerou, FAIA

“Marvin was the most prolific supporter and attendee of Fellows and AIA activities I have known. He was always there. For those that don’t know even a little about him historically, AIA Colorado was on the verge of bankruptcy when he was president decades ago. He essentially “gave up” his practice to save it and did so successfully when there were only two staff people, one full time, and did it almost alone. Marvin is a true example of selflessness for the benefit of many. One of many examples.” — Gary Desmond, FAIA

“I will always miss his generous and welcoming friendship. His dedication to a more balanced and equitable architectural presence throughout our communities will be missed.” — Blake Chambliss, FAIA

In 2012, Marvin shared meaningful moments from his life journey as well as wide ranging thoughts on architecture with AIA Colorado’s History Committee and you can watch the video here.

Dana Ellis, AIA, AIA Small Firm Exchange (SFx) National Representative for Colorado, shared her journey to opening her firm on a recent episode of PRACTICE, the SFx interview series. Watch the interview here.

Hord Coplan Macht announced that Colorado-based Principal Matthew Porta, AIA, LEED AP, CDT, has been promoted to Director of Practice, a newly created position for the firm.

Semple Brown is celebrating four decades of cultivating leadership in the design profession and recognizing Associate Principal and Senior Associate team members who have played a critical role in providing the design quality, client service, and workplace culture that have defined the firm. Congratulations AIA members and Associate Principals Nathan Gulash, AIA, and Kaylyn Kirby, AIA!

Denver’s mid-century modern homes walking tour

July 11th, join Historic Denver for a walking tour of Denver’s Mid-Century Modern Homes. If you love mid-century modern, you’ll love learning about the Cliff May homes. All 170 of the homes in Denver were built in the Harvey Park neighborhood, designed to be both prefabricated and elegant in their minimalism. Local expert Atom Stevens leads this tour in southwest Denver, while also sharing his personal experience as a longtime owner of a Cliff May home. Learn more and RSVP here.

Contribute case studies about using salvage lumber

The City of Boulder is working with the City of Eugene to support the development of ICC Residential code changes to include salvage lumber for structural and non-structural use. They are asking for case studies using salvage lumber in roofs/floors/walls with the understanding that walls can be structural or non-loadbearing with the hope that this will bring forward the possibility for the reuse and incorporation of salvaged lumber into the design/construction of buildings. As an allowable use, this will make it easier for all to deconstruct for salvage, increase the incorporation into design, and allow for potential new market uses for salvaged lumber. For more information about the purpose of the International Code Council Residential Code Proposal for Salvage Lumber, view here. To learn more about the code’s anticipated development timeline, view here. 
To submit a case study, or get in contact to learn more, email Garian Cike.

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:

• Architectural Project Manager at Pierce Austin Architects
• Architect III at Fentress Architects
• Senior Healthcare Project Manager at MOA Architecture

Safety Assessment Program (SAP) evaluator training 2024

June 26-27th, join this training to be certified as Building Evaluators in the nationally recognized Safety Assessment Program (SAP). This program utilizes volunteers and mutual aid resources to provide professional engineers, architects, and certified building inspectors to assist local governments in safety evaluation of their built environment in an aftermath of a disaster. More info and sign up here.

AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index reflects another decline in April

Architecture firm billings remained soft in April, with an AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score of 48.3 for the month. The score rose from 43.6 in March but still indicates that billings continue to decline at most architecture firms. Read at AIA

How to understand architecture business conditions using the AIA’s Architecture Billings Index

To help readers better understand how metrics from ABI translate into the reality of design and construction and to equip them with the tools to interpret the numbers, understand their source, and delineate between various categories, Archinect has assembled a series of questions and answers pertaining to the index. Read at Archinect

Young Architects Forum May newsletter

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

AIA Statement on Architect of the Capitol Appointment

AIA congratulates Thomas Austin and looks forward to working with him as he assumes the critical responsibility as Architect of the Capitol. Read at AIA.

AIA24

We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year! View conference website

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

JVA is a consulting engineering firm with offices in Boulder, Fort Collins, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Denver, Colorado. Since 1956, JVA has provided engineering services to architects, owners, building departments, and general contractors in Colorado and nationwide. Our Structural, Civil, and Environmental engineering departments offer highly skilled engineers who complement your experience to fully meet your design and construction needs. We take pride in our commitment to provide excellent service.

Learn More About JVA.

Looking for Additional Resources?

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

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Design + Honor Awards submission deadline is this Friday at 5pm
• Resilience/Adaptation update
• Inaugural “Design Like a Girl” workshop series wrap up
• Jeopardy CEU and Happy Hour in Fort Collins May 16th
• 16th St Mall renovation tour May 16th
• Buy Clean Colorado – A Practitioners’ Perspective event May 21st
• Happy hour in Boulder May 23rd
• The Future of Local Sustainability Codes May 30th
• National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Tour May 31st
• Member News
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight

Resilience/Adaptation update: Climate Justice and Disaster Recovery 

When architects engage in disaster recovery efforts, technical expertise gets the most attention for how we can contribute to the process. This is no accident; AIA’s Safety Assessment Program (SAP) prepares architects to participate in rapid building assessment in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. These efforts are vital to helping local governments understand the magnitude of a disaster, where to prioritize their efforts, and determine if residents can return to their homes. Consider an invitation to get SAP trained and consider new ways to apply your skills—in the wake of weather events and more.

Read the article by Nikolaus Remus, AIA, AIA Colorado’s Advocacy Engagement Director.

Inaugural “Design Like a Girl” workshop series concludes

AIA Colorado’s J.E.D.I. Committee is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the inaugural Colorado “Design Like a Girl” (DLAG) workshop series. ‘Design Like a Girl’ aims to inspire the next generation of female-identifying designers by organizing full day design workshops for middle school students. Local architecture, design, and engineering professionals volunteer as mentors to guide, instruct, and inspire the young designers. The final workshop, which focused on interior architecture and sustainability, took place on Friday, April 19th at CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning.

Read about the third workshop and the series here.

CEU jeopardy game and happy hour in Fort Collins

May 16th, join members in the North at Odell Brewing’s Community Room in Fort Collins for a fun and interactive jeopardy style game discussing basic hardware while earning 1 HSW|LU with Allegion. Followed by happy hour.
RSVP here

16th St Mall renovation tour

Tomorrow, May 16th, Stantec and Dig Studios will conduct a 20-minute introduction and overview of the renovation of the historic 16th St Mall, followed by a walking tour to highlight the various stages of construction of the mall. The tour and presentation will focus on the various systems being introduced along this historic corridor to improve drainage, tree health, longevity of the paver system being implemented, and the overall urban design strategy. This tour has been approved for 1 LU|HSW.
RSVP here

Buy Clean Colorado – A Practitioners’ Perspective

The Colorado Buy Clean Colorado Act establishes maximum acceptable global warming potential limits for certain building materials used in state-funded construction projects administered by the Office of the State Architect. Tuesday, May 21st, at 7:30am, join AIA–AGC–ACEC Colorado Liaison Committee (A3LC) to learn more about this new legislation that went into effect January 1st of 2024. The presentation will include an overview of the act, why it was created, what it covers, how to comply, “is it enough?”, and future directions. This free event is only available to AIA members.
RSVP here

Happy Hour in Boulder

Thursday, May 23rd, join AIA members and prospective members on the rooftop at Avanti for a social happy hour with your fellow design industry professionals. Food and drink available for purchase. See you there!
RSVP here

The Future of Local Sustainability Codes

Thursday May 30th, join members in the West for a panel discussion and Q&A opportunity with Roaring Fork building officials, construction industry leaders, and elected officials about the current state and future goals for sustainability codes. This panel event is a forum to discuss what’s working, and how construction industry professionals can be a part of the next steps.
RSVP here

National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Private Group Tour

Friday May 31st, join AIA members in the North for a private tour covering the architectural history of the iconic NCAR Mesa Laboratory, designed by modernist architect, I.M. Pei. The building was completed in 1966, and in 1997 received the AIA Colorado Twenty-five Year Award. The tour will also cover the atmospheric science, climate science, and current research being conducted at the National Science Foundation NCAR.
RSVP here

Upcoming events in June:

• Business of Architecture Roundtable: Contracts + Legal Documents • June 4 (new location)
• Colorado Night at AIA24 • June 6
• West Virtual Connect • June 11
• Metro Denver Economic Outlook • June 12
• Populus tour at 10am and tour at 11:30am • June 24
• Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code Overview • June 28

Sarah Goldblatt, AIA, was recently honored with the DPS Career Development Company Advocate of the Year award for her volunteer work to advance career exploration, specifically architecture, including the Design Like a Girl architectural workshops, Coach mentorship, and numerous guest speaker appearances.

Raphael Chavez, AIA, was honored by DPS with the Perennial Partner of the Year award, recognizing his work over the past ten years to offer career exploration events and host interns creating a unique learning opportunity that has been replicated year after year.

Congratulations to Sarah and Raphael for the much deserved recognition!

HOK expands Denver architecture and design studio as the Colorado office moves to a larger studio to support increased staff and better serve clients throughout the Mountain States. Hear from Ana-Maria Drughi, AIA, and her colleagues about the studio’s rapid growth and their vision for HOK’s future in the region.

Davis Partnership Architects has announced new leadership across multiple areas of the firm. Congratulations to Patrick Lee, AIA, who assumes the role of Director of Design and to Ryan Estes, AIA, Jonathan Fertig, AIA, John Glenn, AIA, Mark Hageman, AIA, Evan Miller, AIA, Anthony Mitchell, and Dominic Senska, who have been promoted to Senior Associates or Associates within their respective specialties in the Architecture Studio.

AIA24

We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year!

View conference website

Colorado Night at AIA24

Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!

AIA announces Global Campus for Architecture & Design

The AIA headquarters building renewal is a once-in-a-generation project that addresses the urgent need for climate action and will dramatically transform the user experience for staff, members, and visitors. Read at AIA

Discover the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), a leading authority in structural steel design and innovation since 1921. For over a century, AISC has set the standards for steel construction and continues to drive industry advancements. Visit us at booth 1319 during the AIA 24 conference in Washington, D.C., next month to explore our new Architecture Center and learn about the wealth of resources available to architects. Join AISC’s speaking session and tour at AIA 24, DC.

Have questions about designing with structural steel? Look no further! AISC’s Designing with Structural Steel: A Guide for Architects is a resource, straight from the technical experts who write Chapter 22 (Steel) of the International Building Code. It offers a comprehensive look at designing your next project with a structural steel framing system, from sound isolation and architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) to sustainability and resilience.

Elevate your projects with steel. Click here to learn more about AISC and the invaluable resources available to architects.

Looking for Additional Resources?

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

Helpful Links:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.

In this Newsletter:

• Licensing renewal bill heads to Governor
• Practice Resources for Emerging Professionals
• Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions May 3rd
• Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions May 3rd
• Jeopardy CEU and Happy Hour in Fort Collins May 16th
• The Future of Local Sustainability Codes May 30th
• National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Tour May 31st
• Member News
• Denver Art Museum events
• National news
• Premier Partner spotlight

Licensing renewal bill for Architects, Professional Engineers, and Land Surveyors heads to Governor

We’re pleased to announce that the bill reauthorizing our practice act is on its way to Governor Polis for his signature! Changes between the new and current law are minimal, focusing on administrative procedures, cleaning up outdated language, and creating continuing education requirements for land surveyors. The practice of architecture itself (alongside the practices of engineering and land surveying) will retain current definitions and scope. Our next sunset review, required periodically for all licensed professionals in Colorado, will be in nine years.

Practice Resources for Emerging Professionals

Are you new to the profession and looking for tools and resources? The AIA Colorado website has new resource page specifically created for you. Use this page as an FAQ and resource listing to find questions and uncover answers and suggestions as you roll up your sleeves and dive in. If you have a question that isn’t answered or know of a resource that needs to be added, share it using the form at the bottom of the page!

View resource page.

Also, join a study group! Organized by the J.E.D.I. committee, meet up with others who are studying for the same tests. More info here.

Code Class: IECC Overview – Commercial Provisions

May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the commercial provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will focus on those provisions that have the highest impact on a building’s energy efficiency as we look at what has changed in the code. Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here

Code Class: IECC Overview – Residential Provisions

May 3rd, this free webinar, sponsored by the Colorado Energy Office, will take a high level overview of the residential provisions of the latest edition of the International Energy Conservation Code. We will look at the different ways to navigate through the code, highlighting all of the flexibility built in so that designers, builders, and homeowners have more options of how to meet the end goal of an energy efficient and resilient building.Course submitted for 1.5 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hour.
RSVP here

CEU jeopardy game and happy hour in Fort Collins

May 16th, join members in the North at Odell Brewing’s Community Room in Fort Collins for a fun and interactive jeopardy style game discussing basic hardware while earning 1 HSW|LU with Allegion. Followed by happy hour.
RSVP here

The Future of Local Sustainability Codes

Thursday May 30th, join members in the West for a panel discussion and Q&A opportunity with Roaring Fork building officials, construction industry leaders, and elected officials about the current state and future goals for sustainability codes. This panel event is a forum to discuss what’s working, and how construction industry professionals can be a part of the next steps.
RSVP here

National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesa Laboratory Private Group Tour

Friday May 31st, join AIA members in the North for a private tour covering the architectural history of the iconic NCAR Mesa Laboratory, designed by modernist architect, I.M. Pei. The building was completed in 1966, and in 1997 received the AIA Colorado Twenty-five Year Award. The tour will also cover the atmospheric science, climate science, and current research being conducted at the National Science Foundation NCAR.
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Upcoming events in June:

• Business of Architecture Roundtable: Contracts + Legal Documents • June 4
• Colorado Night at AIA24 • June 6
• West Virtual Connect • June 11
• Metro Denver Economic Outlook • June 12
• Code Class: 2021 International Existing Building Code Overview • June 28

Joey Pruett, AIA, of A21 Architecture, recently discussed how he got his start in the Swiss Alps and the influences that have shaped his work in an interview with Angelbau.

Anderson Hallas Architects announces that Laine McLaughlin, AIA, has been promoted to Senior Project Manager. Congrats, Laine!

Upcoming events at Denver Art Museum:

• Talk with Dixon Lu, Associate Partner of MAD Architects. May 4, 2024 – 11am–12 pm. Dixon Lu serves as an Associate Partner at MAD Architects’ Los Angeles office and has overseen the management of the firm’s U.S. projects, including One River North, presently in construction in Denver’s RiNo neighborhood. Buy tickets here.
• Luncheon By Design 2024, May 9, 2024 – 11:30 am–1:30 pm, in celebration of the upcoming exhibition Biophilia: Nature Reimagined, features a presentation by Jeanne Gang, FAIA, founding partner of Studio Gang, whose projects include Denver’s new Populus hotel. Buy tickets here.

AIA24

We often talk about the future. This conference is where the AEC industry gathers to define it, design it, and connect across industries to build it. Join us in Washington, D.C., June 5–8, 2024, for the architecture and design event of the year!

View conference website

Colorado Night at AIA24

Enjoy connecting with fellow AIA Colorado members and University of Colorado alumni at Colorado Night at AIA24. Join us!

Architecture firm billings retreat further in March

The AIA/Deltek Architectural Billings Index (ABI) March score declined to 43.6. This marked the 14th consecutive month of declining billings at firms as inflation, supply chain issues, and other economic challenges continue to affect business. Read at AIA.

Discover the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), a leading authority in structural steel design and innovation since 1921. For over a century, AISC has set the standards for steel construction and continues to drive industry advancements. Visit us at booth 1319 during the AIA 24 conference in Washington, D.C., next month to explore our new Architecture Center and learn about the wealth of resources available to architects.

Have questions about designing with structural steel? Look no further! AISC’s Designing with Structural Steel: A Guide for Architects is a resource, straight from the technical experts who write Chapter 22 (Steel) of the International Building Code. It offers a comprehensive look at designing your next project with a structural steel framing system, from sound isolation and architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) to sustainability and resilience.

Elevate your projects with steel. Click here to learn more about AISC and the invaluable resources available to architects.

Executing low-carbon concrete symposium

Explore currently available means and methods contractors and ready mix producers can take to achieve the project carbon targets set by developers architects, engineers, and policymakers to reduce the embodied carbon of concrete. Join National Ready Mixed Concrete Association for a day of education, discussion, and networking to explore the current state of the market and identify opportunities to collaborate on implementing low-carbon concrete solutions. Earn 6 AIA-CES HSW Learning Units.

Learn more here

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:

• Contact AIA Colorado Staff
• AIA Colorado Calendar
• AIA Colorado News and Articles

Save the Dates:

• 2024 Design + Honor Awards Event will be held September 12, 2024 at Mile High Station. View awards event sponsorship opportunities.
• 2024 AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference will take place November 13-15, 2024 at Keystone Conference Center, Keystone, CO. View conference sponsorship opportunities.