Category: News

“We should all be very proud of how the state of Colorado, the architects in this room, the architects in the state, have continued to push forward. And I think the quality of our work is better than ever, and it keeps getting better.”

— Rich Carr, AIA, 2023 Architect of the Year.

Announcing the 2023 Design + Honor Recipients!

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

Last night, at Mile High Station in Denver, we celebrated 22 Design Award recipients and the Honor Awards recipients. While our next member newsletter, slated for Oct. 4th, will have a full coverage recap of the Awards Event, we’re thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 Honor Awards as follows:

• President’s Award: Stephanie Bingham, HMH Architecture + Interiors, Month of Modern
• Impact Award: Colorado Green Building Guild
• Young Architect Award: Rebekah Wagoner, AIA, Gensler
• Architect of the Year: Rich Carr, AIA, CCY
• Architects Firm of the Year: Anderson Hallas Architects, PC

Watch the Design Awards video to see the recipients of the Awards of Excellence, Awards of Merit, and Honorable Mentions, read the press release here, and learn more about each of the award winners at aiacolorado.org/awards.

Carol Ross Barney Presents “The Future of Cities”

A featured keynote at ENGAGE 2023 Practice + Design Conference, Carol Ross Barney, FAIA will share her vision of Public Spaces and their role in the future of our communities. Read the full keynote description here.

Join us at Keystone Resort, November 15th – 17th, 2023! Registration is open and we recommend reserving your room soon to ensure an early skiing season doesn’t affect your plans.

New this year is a Pre-Conference Technology Deep Dive, also taking place at Keystone, on Wednesday November 15th from 2pm – 5pm.

DORA Policy for CE Deficiencies When Renewing a License

Colorado-licensed architects are required to renew licenses in odd-numbered years by October 31. As we approach this year’s renewal, the DORA AES Board is expected to send a notification with instructions to your email address on file with the state by the end of September. Remember, the annual state-required 12 HSW hours of continuing education are per calendar year. You still have until December 31 to finish this year’s hours.

The DORA AES board has updated their policies on how CE deficiencies from previous years are handled upon license renewal. Falsely attesting that you have met the continuing education requirements during the renewal process triggers disciplinary action with fines. However, there is now a better system to make up deficiencies ahead of attempting to renew your license with lower penalties for minor infractions. We recommend that Colorado-licensed members follow these steps as soon as possible:

Log into your aia.org account and review your CE transcript from 2021 and 2022 to confirm you’ve earned 12 HSW hours each year.
If you’re deficient, review section 40.15 of the board policies document to understand applicable penalties and be ready to report the deficiency to the AES board.

We anticipate that more information on reporting instructions will be part of the upcoming DORA renewal notification email.

You’ll have until December 31st to complete any make-up CE hours in addition to the 12 required for 2023. You can start that process immediately.
If you have CE deficiencies from prior years, do not attempt to renew your license prior to completing both 12 hours for 2023 and make up any deficiencies, unless otherwise directed by DORA.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to Nikolaus Remus.

Timnath Middle-High School Tour

September 22nd, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a tour of the new prototype Timnath Middle-High School led by RB+B Architects.

Populus Tours

This September 27th, the Denver Local Advisors have organized two tours of Populus, a project designed to reenergize Civic Center Park, connecting the Golden Triangle Creative District to downtown Denver. Both tours have reached maximum capacity, but waitlists are open and you are welcome to add your name, should someone be unable to attend.

RSVP’d and unable to attend? Please update your RSVP through the Eventbrite platform to allow for waitlisted individuals to be confirmed.

Meeting and Fundraiser for State Legislators in Glenwood Springs

October 4th, join members in the West to meet Senator Dylan Roberts and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Meghan Lukens in Glenwood Springs. We’ll hear from each legislator about their priorities in the 2024 legislative session and attendees are encouraged to speak on topics affecting the architecture profession that you see in your practices and communities.

Happy Hour in Denver

October 6th, join fellow AIA Colorado members for a social hour and celebration at Wynkoop Brewing Company (*new location).

Lunch & Learn in Fort Collins

On Monday, October 9th, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a presentation by Powers Products. The topic will be “Choose Your Own Adventure: the Operable Walls Chapter (MODERNFOLD)” for 1 HSW/CEU. This will be a great opportunity to mingle with your fellow AIA colleagues and earn a CEU as well.

University Hill Hotel Tour

October 17th, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a hard hat tour of University Hill Hotel in Boulder led by Shears Adkins Rockmore.

Month of Modern

There are three more events scheduled for the 2023 Month of Modern, celebrating all things modern in Boulder. Check out the Mixology Clinic, join the Hoby Wagener Home Tour, and attend the Wrap Party & Awards.
View Highlighted Events

Celebration of the Arts – A Latinx Showcase

This Friday September 22nd, join NOMA Colorado for an event highlighting local Latinx artists within the Design, Architecture, and Arts industry.
RSVP Here

CAP Lecture Series

Thursday September 23, attend Lydia Kallipoliti’s lecture “Our Dirty Footprint; Digesting Waste and Reimagining Infrastructures” at CAP’s Second Floor Gallery.
View Lecture Details and RSVP

“My Architect” Film Screening

This October 5th, join the International Association of Lighting Designers for a screening of the film My Architect. Filmmaker, and son of the story’s protagonist, Nathanial Kahn will be in attendance.

View Event Information and Tickets Here

Habits of the Anthropocene Conference

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy. This conference will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.  

View Conference Website

Networking Event with Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade

November 8th, in Colorado Springs, join members from AGC, HBA, CFMA, El Paso County Contractors, ACEC, ULI, and AIA for a networking session with Mayor Yemi from 4pm-7pm at The Warehouse in Colorado Springs. As an AIA member, use discount code “SOCO Partner 2023” to lock in a $30 rate. Look forward to hearing Mayor Yemi’s vision for Colorado Springs and how the design and construction groups can support his vision in the areas of affordable housing, adaptive reuse, land use, and Colorado Springs’ use of Infrastructure Investment Jobs Act funding.

Sign Up Here

Ensuring Equitable Post-Disaster Outcomes

This Thursday September 21st at Noon MST, join AIA Colorado member Heather Korth, AIA, and her co-presenters Stacy Bourne, FAIA, NOMA, and Marcus Martin for a thought- provoking session about improving equitable outcomes through disaster mitigation and preparedness. During this session, they will shine a light on the systemic inequities that hinder equitable preparedness and contribute to disparities in response and recovery outcomes. Heather’s organization, Our Front Porch, helps Colorado home fire survivors navigate the ups and downs of the recovery journey so they don’t have to go it alone. Register Here

Speak at A’24 in Washington, D.C.

Every year, AIA opens a call for proposals to solicit the best speakers and content for the AIA Conference on Architecture. This year’s event includes a Call for Educational Sessions and AIA is looking for ahead-of-the-curve content from a diversity of voices and career stages. AI, smart materials, community-centered design, sustainability, wellness, and equity are a few of the 32 topics and seven tracks you can submit for, plus a variety of session formats.
Learn More

AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Sees Softening Business Conditions in August

This marks the eleventh consecutive month of essentially flat billings at architecture firms.
Read More

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

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with five manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. 

View Company Website

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

Design + Honor Awards Celebration Less Than 2 Weeks Away!

On September 19th, join AIA Colorado as we unveil the recipients of the 2023 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects. Enjoy the uniqueness of historic Mile High Station, the dazzling music of Spinphony, and delicious food and drinks all night long. We 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!

Purchase tickets by this Friday at Noon to avoid Late Ticketing prices.

Event sponsorship is still available and we invite all firms and allied industry partners to view the event prospectus. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate your support for design excellence across Colorado.

“Super thanks for the invitation to speak. An honor on all levels!”

— Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA Principal / Owner & Founder of Olson Kundig.

“Designing With People + Place: A Conversation with Tom Kundig, FAIA” is taking place Thursday November 16th at the Engage 2023 Practice + Design Conference. View the current conference schedule here.

Early Registration is Now Open for ENGAGE 2023 Practice + Design Conference!

Join us at Keystone Resort November 15 – 17, 2023 as we engage with leading ideas and innovations as we design our future, together. Expect to hear inspiring insights from global design leaders, advanced practice management methods and practical innovations from industry partners, and a conference format that allows you to follow your interests into learning lab sessions that not only speak to your interests but directly affect your craft.

Early Registration is now open through September 15th. If you already know that you’re planning to attend, lock in your registration today. Also, we recommend reserving your room soon to ensure an early skiing season doesn’t affect your plans.

New this year is a Pre-Conference Technology Deep Dive, also taking place at Keystone, on Wednesday November 15th from 2pm – 5pm. Early Registration is

One River North Tours

Recently, the Denver Local Advisors organized tours of One River North and were able to see a lot of spaces – exterior, a variety of units, roof-top pool area, and other exterior amenities of the soon-to-be-iconic building.

Timnath Middle-High School Tour

September 22nd, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a tour of the new prototype Timnath Middle-High School led by RB+B Architects.

Populus Tours

This September 27th, the Denver Local Advisors have organized two tours of Populus, a project designed to reenergize Civic Center Park, connecting the Golden Triangle Creative District to downtown Denver. Both tours have reached maximum capacity, but waitlists are open and you are welcome to add your name, should someone be unable to attend.

RSVP’d and unable to attend? Please update your RSVP through the Eventbrite platform to allow for waitlisted individuals to be confirmed.

Meeting and Fundraiser for State Legislators in Glenwood Springs

October 4th, join members in the West to meet Senator Dylan Roberts and Representatives Elizabeth Velasco and Meghan Lukens in Glenwood Springs. We’ll hear from each legislator about their priorities in the 2024 legislative session and attendees are encouraged to speak on topics affecting the architecture profession that you see in your practices and communities.

Happy Hour in Denver

October 6th, join fellow AIA Colorado members for a social hour and celebration at Terminal Bar inside Union Station.

Lunch & Learn in Fort Collins

On Monday, October 9th, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a presentation by Powers Products. The topic will be “Choose Your Own Adventure: the Operable Walls Chapter (MODERNFOLD)” for 1 HSW/CEU. This will be a great opportunity to mingle with your fellow AIA colleagues and earn a CEU as well.

University Hill Hotel Tour

October 17th, join AIA Colorado members in the North for a hard hat tour of University Hill Hotel in Boulder led by Shears Adkins Rockmore.

Jennifer Song Koeppe, AIA, A4LE, in Ratio’s Denver office was promoted to Principal. Jennifer leads the K-12 and Higher Education markets, and she is also the Southwest Region J.E.D.I. Champion for A4LE. Read more

HOK’s Denver studio continues to grow with the promotion of Candace Todd to senior regional practice leader and the new hire of Ryan Byrnes, AIA to director of design, Interiors. Reflecting the studio’s growing project demands, the studio is also relocating to a larger office space more than twice its current size within the same building in Denver’s LoDo District. Read more.

CCY Architects has won 2 awards in the International Architectural Awards for their projects Elk Range Overlook and DNA Alpine. The awards are organized by the Chicago Athenaeum, European Centre for Architecture, and Metropolitan Arts Press in order to honor the best, significant new buildings, landscape architecture, and planning projects designed and/or built around the world’s leading architects, landscape architects, and urban planners practicing nationally and internationally. View all of the winners here.

This past April, Tryba Architects John McIntryre, AIA and Kathleen Fogler, AIA presented at AIA Colorado’s Design Elevated: Sustainable Urbanism from Colorado event. They asked “how can we reimagine the concept of ‘Urban Renewal,’ and instead shift the paradigm toward ‘Civic Repair?’“ Watch their presentation on Instagram.

Month of Modern

During the month of September, Boulder will be alive with Month of Modern (MoM). Founded 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.

Over the course of 4 weeks we will be hosting featured speakers, fire-side chats, film nights, thought-provoking panels and a fantastic wrap party – all designed to educate, inspire and delight.

View Highlighted Events

Colorado Green Building Guild – Green Home Tour

This September 9th, join Colorado Green Building Guild (CGBG) as they welcome the return of their annual Green Home Tour. CGBG has selected 8 exemplary homes that demonstrate different techniques, different stages of development, and different pathways to zero-energy and low-carbon design.

View Event Website for Information and Tickets

Ice Box Challenge

The Ice Box Challenge is a public installation event that demonstrates the power of Passive House design and construction. This September 12th, join Passive House Network for the Ice Box Happy Hour Social and the Reveal Ceremony September 23rd.

View More Information here

Taking Flight at DEN

Thursday, September 14th at 1 – 2:15 pm, meet the DEN Project Managers and join the monthly Taking Flight at DEN event. The 75-minute virtual presentation on Zoom will feature project overviews and networking opportunities with DEN Project Managers and other staff members. 
Register here

CAP Fall Lecture Series

The CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning Fall 2023 Lecture Series explores the materials, forms, audiences, and agencies that shape history, speculation, and applied practice. All events are free, open to the public, and will be recorded unless otherwise specified. Most lectures will be held on the Second Floor Gallery of CU Building, 1250 14th St, Denver. 

Visit CAP’s Calendar

“My Architect” Film Screening

This October 5th, join the International Association of Lighting Designers for a screening of the film My Architect. Filmmaker, and son of the story’s protagonist, Nathanial Kahn will be in attendance.

View Event Information and Tickets Here

Habits of the Anthropocene Conference

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy. This conference will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.  

View Conference Website

AIA Compensation & Benefits Report 2023

The AIA Compensation & Benefits Report is the architecture industry’s most comprehensive report on salary, hiring, and benefits trends. With over 1,100 firms reporting data on 45 unique architecture and design roles, the 2023 edition is the most robust edition in 15 years and the only report used by the Department of Labor.

View Report

Top AIA Resources for Disaster Preparedness

During National Preparedness Month this September, utilize AIA’s growing list of resources to help transform the day-to-day practice of architecture to achieve a safer, equitable, more resilient, healthy, just, and zero-carbon built environment.

Learn More

AIA Announces Lineup for its 2023 Women’s Leadership Summit

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Women’s Leadership Summit (WLS) 2023, being held in Boston from September 12–14, is the largest event focused on diverse women in design and construction. More than 800 attendees will gain actionable insights to build their career and create professional opportunities.

View the Full Schedule

Blueprint For Better – Center for Community by Design Program

The Architect Foundation’s Center for Community by Design Program (CxD) serves as a catalyst, convener, and resource center that helps AIA members and partners work with citizens and other stakeholders to envision and create more resilient, healthy, equitable, and livable communities. The architect’s role is most often focused on individual building design. The CxD is helping architects design for the individuals each building serves.

Blueprint for Better

Healthier Materials Protocol

Materials selection is one of the most difficult sustainability goals to track and integrate into the design and delivery process. The new AIA Healthier Materials Protocol was created to provide clear, practical methods and tools to navigate this maze and effectively translate awareness to practice.
Learn More

Renovate, Retrofit, Reuse Report

This study uncovers the hidden value in America’s existing building stock, contextualizing the tremendous opportunity surrounding our buildings using economic data, expert insights, and compelling case studies. Architects and project teams use the guiding principles described in this report to unlock economic, health, and environmental benefits in buildings and communities.
Learn more

AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Sees Stable Business Conditions in July

Firms with a commercial/industrial specialization reported their strongest billings growth in more than a year, while firms with a multifamily residential specialization continued to report declining billings.

Read more

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

Humboldt Sawmill Company, LLC manufactures redwood and Douglas-fir dimensional lumber, timbers, and uppers at the company’s sawmill in Scotia, California. Allweather Wood, LLC is the largest waterborne preservative treated lumber and plywood manufacturer in the western United States with five manufacturing facilities, including a facility in Loveland, Colorado. 

View Company Website

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

“[Architecture’s] a mix of form and function. It’s really fun to figure out how to make functional things beautiful”

— Kevin Nguyen, AIA, of Regular Architecture, dishes on his creative process, local restaurant design trends, and the importance of community in 5280 Magazine.

Kevin’s work has also helped bring Fuel & Iron Food Hall to life in Pueblo. Read more about that project here.

Design + Honor Awards Event Celebration

On September 19th, join AIA Colorado as we unveil the recipients of the 2023 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects. We 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!

Event sponsorship is available and we invite all firms and allied industry partners to view the event prospectus. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate your support for design excellence across Colorado.

Expo Hall Vendor Hall Open

Know a company that serves your firm and clients really well? The AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference expo hall is now open to all to sign up for booths or sponsorships.

Girls Design Experience Needs Workshop Mentors

AIA Colorado J.E.D.I. Committee is seeking female and female identifying practicing and emerging architects and architectural students to participate in a new program to introduce middle school girls to architecture and allied professions. For this program, mentors can chose to participate in one or all upcoming day-long Colorado workshops with students that follow an immersive design curriculum created by AIA DC and the Washington Architectural Foundation. There will be an informational meeting taking place August 30th at Noon on Zoom. Learn more about the program and future dates at the link.

Code Class: Overview of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code

This August 30th, join us for an overview of the current 2021 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code and how architects apply it to their everyday work. This full-day program includes lunch and will be submitted for approval for 6.0 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hours. 

Thank you to the Colorado Energy Office for the grant to ensure special pricing possible for the first 40 registrants. AIA Member Early Registration pricing is just $50 and this rate expires August 22nd! 

One River North Tour

This August 24th and August 31st, the Denver Local Advisors have organized tours of One River North, a project in the RiNo neighborhood that has certainly provided a captivating story with its crevasse running across its façade. Tours for both dates have reached maximum capacity, but waitlists are now open and you are welcome to add your name, should someone be unable to attend.

RSVP’d and unable to attend? Please update your RSVP through the Eventbrite platform if you cannot attend to allow for wait listed individuals to be confirmed.

A glass house situated on a unique ridgeline in Salida residence designed by Mike Peché, AIA and Studio B Architecture & Interiors is the cover story in the current Modern in Denver. See the magazine spread here.

Denver Public School CEC Early College Coach/Mentor

This is a volunteer opportunity seeking A/E and construction professionals to mentor high school students with specific interests in architecture. Deadline to apply is October 23rd. More information can be found on the J.E.D.I. webpage.

Habits of the Anthropocene Conference

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

Wildfires On The Islands Of Maui And Big Islands In Hawaii

The unprecedented wildfires on the islands of Maui and Big Islands in Hawaii have caused widespread damage and killed dozens of people. The death toll continues to rise, making it the deadliest wildfire in modern U.S. history.

The AIA family is deeply saddened by these recent wildfires and is working in close coordination with AIA Hawaii as recovery efforts get underway. Our 97,000 members and extensive resources are being activated to support Hawaii’s health, safety, and welfare in the weeks, months, and years ahead.

AIA’s past experience with disasters of this magnitude tells us that the recovery process is a long, arduous road that architects can, and must help navigate, to make communities whole once again. We cannot bring back what has been lost, but together we can help find a new way forward.

AIA Hawaii recommends giving to the Maui Strong Fund. 100 percent of the funds will be distributed for community needs for immediate response and recovery.

Donate here

Women’s Leadership Summit

This premier event is designed for ambitious women who want to unlock their full potential, make a lasting impact on their careers, and lead change in architecture and the allied professions. Join AIA members in Boston September 12–14, 2023, to meet, network with, and learn from an extraordinary lineup of renowned speakers, trailblazing leaders, and industry experts—and earn up to 45 AIA LUs. 

Register here

Repaving The Road To Licensure

Patricia Ramallo, AIA, assistant vice president of innovation at NCARB, talks about removing unnecessary barriers for a more equitable profession.

Read at Architect Magazine

Private Projects Stall Even As Public Construction Spending Jumps

Although infrastructure dollars are flowing, “developer-driven activity appears to be drying up,” said ABC’s chief economist.

Read more

2023 AIA Upjohn Research Initiative Grant

The AIA Upjohn Research Initiative supports applied research projects that enhance the value of design and professional practice knowledge.

This AIA program funds up to six research grants of $15,000–$30,000 annually for projects completed in a 6- to 18-month period. The funds must be fully matched with hard dollars, with a maximum of 10% of allocated for overhead. A maximum of 10% of the requested Upjohn grant funds may be allocated for overhead. Grant recipients’ research findings and outcomes are published online by AIA. 

Learn more

California Adopts First-in-Nation Building Code Revision To Reduce Embodied Carbon

California is now the first state in the country to formally implement general code requirements for reducing embodied carbon in the built environment.

Read more in Architectural Record

Look Inside The World’s Largest 3D-Printed Neighborhood In Texas

See at CNN

Some Of AIA’s Top Honors & Awards Are Open For Submission

AIA Honors & Awards has several awards open for submission—Fellowship, Interior Architecture, Regional & Urban Design, etc. View available submission opportunities and make Colorado proud!
View Submissions Currently Open

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

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

Learn More About The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

“…once residents started working with the architects, they found that they could imagine the possibility for their house that was dramatically better, with lower energy bills, more thermally comfortable, and more environmentally responsible across the board than the house that they had.”

— Scott Rodwin, AIA, Rodwin Architecture, AIA Colorado North Section Direction, discussing sustainable residential design at the recent State of the Art of Architecture event, held at the Aspen Art Museum. Read more from the event here

On September 19th, join AIA Colorado as we unveil the recipients of the 2023 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects. 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!

Event sponsorship is available and we invite you to view the event prospectus.

Practice + Design Conference Expo Hall Vendor Application Now Open to Premier Partners and Allied Members

Know a company that serves your firm and clients really well? The AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference expo hall and event sponsorship online sign-up page is now open to our Premier Partners and Allied Members as a benefit for their continued support of AIA Colorado. This opportunity to secure a booth, register for a learning lab, or become a conference sponsor is available through August 15th, at which point if there are opportunities still open, we will make them available to a wider industry audience.

If a firm is not currently a Premier Partner or Allied Member, there is still time to sign up as one of our industry partners and secure a booth, submit for a learning lab, or sign up for conference sponsorship.

Lastly, if you’re interested in viewing the 2023 Engage Practice + Design Conference prospectus, you can view it here.

Denver Local Advisor Tours

The Denver Local Advisors recently provided tours of the Colorado Convention Center expansion and the National Western Complex. Catch up with the Denver Local Advisors and learn about recent tours in the Denver area here.

Happy Hour Q&A with Boulder City Council member Lauren Folkerts, AIA

Tuesday, August 15th, join members from the North to hear what Boulder City Council is working on, and how to get involved. Lauren will provide an update on the City’s initiatives on affordable housing, homelessness, transportation, sustainability initiatives, the state of the Development Services Department, and a host of other topics of interest to the local architectural community. This will be a casual format and you’ll have opportunities for Q&A. Please RSVP in advance.

Code Class: Overview of the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code

This August 30th, join us for an overview of the current 2021 edition of the International Energy Conservation Code and how architects apply it to their everyday work. This full-day program includes lunch and will be submitted for approval for 6.0 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hours. Early registration is now open for AIA members until August 9th, when registration will open up to non-members as well. Early registration rates expire on August 22nd! 

DNA Alpine wins the 2023 North American Copper in Architecture Award

Awarded to CCY Architects, this award recognizes and promotes North American building projects for their outstanding use of architectural copper and copper alloys. Learn more

Denver Community Planning and Development – Resources for Electrical Vehicle (EV) Charging Spaces Requirements

EV code requirements impact how parking is configured for a project and should be addressed during the Site Development Plan process. On June 20, 2023, City Council approved amendments that take a phased approach to these requirements to ensure projects already at the formal site development plan/construction drawing preparation stage can continue with minimal impacts
Learn more

2022 Denver Energy Code Resources

Residential and commercial checklists for the 2022 Denver Energy Code (DEC) are available. Please note that these have been recently updated and will continue to be updated on a regular basis.

Learn more

Denver Public Schools Opportunities

• DPS CEC Early College Coach/ Mentor is a volunteer opportunity seeking A/E and construction professionals to mentor high school students with specific interests in architecture. Deadline to apply is October 23rd.
• DPS High School Architecture/Drafting Instructor is an opening at DPS to teach high school students architecture and drafting.

More info regarding both opportunites can be found here.

Habits of the Anthropocene Conference

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

Women’s Leadership Summit

Registration is open for Women’s Leadership Summit 2023! This premier event is designed for ambitious women who want to unlock their full potential, make a lasting impact on their careers, and lead change in architecture and the allied professions. 

Join AIA members in Boston September 12–14, 2023, to meet, network with, and learn from an extraordinary lineup of renowned speakers, trailblazing leaders, and industry experts—and earn up to 45 AIA LUs. 

Register here

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 more

Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Applications Are Now Live

This month, EPA launched two Notices of Funding Opportunity for the $14 billion National Clean Investment Fund (NCIF) and the $6 billion Clean Communities Investment Accelerator (CCIA). In alignment with the Justice40 Initiative, these grants will fund key decarbonization projects and underscore adaptive reuse as an integral climate solution. The competitions share a closing date of October 12, 2023, and additional information about engagement opportunities as well as the process to apply for funding is available on the EPA’s website.

Learn more

Exceptionally Strong Growth in Nonresidential Building Spending Projected for 2023; Slower Gains Predicted for 2024

The American Institute of Architect’s (AIA) Consensus Construction Forecast panel has optimistic projections for nonresidential building spending in late 2023 and beyond, and the news is generally positive – with a caveat.

View Consensus Construction Forecast

Artificial Intelligence in Contract Management- Rhetoric to Reality

Today’s automated contract management systems and their use of AI grew out of three different disciplines – contract management, document management, and business analytics. Read more of the White Paper in the AI in Contract Management Series.

Read here

New eBook! Maximize Your Facilities Maintenance Contracts: Contract Fundamentals, Special Considerations, and Best Practices

This eBook serves as an introduction to the latest product offerings from AIA Contract Documents focused on building and facility maintenance.

Learn more

AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Stable in June

The ABI score of 50.1 for the month indicates that billings at architecture firms remained steady as design activity continues to slowly recover from roiled economic conditions. When asked about AI, few firms reported using it, although 90% expect usage to increase over the next three years.

Read more

Some of AIA’s Top Honors & Awards are Open for Submission

AIA Honors & Awards has several awards open for submission—Fellowship, Interior Architecture, Regional & Urban Design, etc. View available submission opportunities and make Colorado proud!
View Submissions Currently Open

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

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

Learn More About The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

“So much of your career and your life is an accumulation of your experiences.”

— Sarah Broughton, FAIA, Principle at rowland+broughton, 2023 AIA Colorado President.

Sarah was recently highlighted in AIA National’s weekly 60-second “Future Focused” video series. The series features female architects and designers’ favorite work, as well as the leadership, mentorship, and vision they are pursuing for an increasingly diverse and equitable profession. The videos share the stories of women, men, and firm leaders who are elevating women and changing the profession to make it a vocation of choice for anyone interested in the design field.

Practice + Design Conference Expo Hall Vendor Application Now Open to Premier Partners and Allied Members

Know a company that serves your firm and clients really well? The AIA Colorado Practice + Design Conference expo hall and event sponsorship online sign-up page is now open to our Premier Partners and Allied Members as a benefit for their continued support of AIA Colorado. This opportunity to secure a booth, register for a learning lab, or become a conference sponsor is available through August 15th, at which point if there are opportunities still open, we will make them available to a wider industry audience.

If a firm is not currently a Premier Partner or Allied Member, there is still time to sign up as one of our industry partners and secure a booth, submit for a learning lab, or sign up for conference sponsorship.

Lastly, if you’re interested in viewing the 2023 Engage Practice + Design Conference prospectus, you can view it here.

DORA Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors Board Transition

The State Board of Licensure for Architects, Professional Engineers and Professional Land Surveyors says a grateful farewell to Stephen Powell, AIA and welcomes Christy Riggs, AIA. Three architect members sit on the Department of Regulatory Affairs board alongside peer professionals in other design disciplines. Stephen is a former South Section AIA President and an active volunteer in his community for groups involved in child advocacy and affordable housing. Thank you, Stephen!

Governor Jared Polis appointed Christy Riggs who steps into the role with continuing architect board members Stephanie Morales Ostasuc, AIA and Nan Anderson, FAIA. For the first time in Colorado history, the three architect seats are held by women. Christy Riggs is a long-time South Section volunteer and previous South board member, who also regularly represents the architecture profession on Colorado Springs area boards and commissions, in addition to running her own practice.

These volunteer jobs are not for the faint of heart—requiring hundreds of pages of material to review and hours-long monthly meetings. The architecture community appreciates the commitment these board members make to maintain the integrity of our practice.
AES Board Home

Tour of Colorado Convention Center Expansion

Thursday, July 20th, join the Denver Local Advisors Group for a tour before construction wraps and the space is opened to the public, followed by happy hour at The Corner Office. The Colorado Convention Center has served as a hub for downtown Denver and the Mountain West for over thirty years. In 2015, voters approved an expansion to the facility that hosts over 230 events on an annual basis. Please RSVP in advance.

Academy of Architecture for Health Networking Event

This July 27th, join the Academy of Architecture for Health Knowledge Community for a happy hour networking event hosted at Page’s office. Open to AIA Colorado members. Please RSVP in advance.

On September 19th, join AIA Colorado as we unveil the recipients of the 2023 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects. 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!

Event sponsorship is available and we invite you to view the event prospectus.

“Bigger Does Seem Also to be Better for CCY Architects, Winners of Top International Recognition”

Read about CCY Architects recent accolades, international awards, projects, and the firm’s community focus in the Aspen Times.

AEF Travel Scholarship – Denmark & Sweden

Each year, the Architectural Education Foundation (AEF) funds Travel Scholarships for AIA members to support educational endeavors and gain more experience.

This past June, utilizing the Fisher Travel Scholarship, Sean Jursnick, AIA, Architect at SAR+, was able to spend two weeks in Denmark and Sweden examining smart cities and carbon-reduction efforts. The trip provided an opportunity to build connections with Danish and Swedish architects, visit innovative projects, and ultimately find ways to contribute to AIA’s efforts to promote carbon reduction.

Read About Sean’s Trip

Habits of the Anthropocene

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

AIA Updates the Framework for Design Excellence

A major update for 2023 includes the explicit labeling of “high impact” action items into each principle. This provides architects with an overview of recommendations, understanding that they are not necessarily able to adopt every single best practice. These high-impact items are categorized in a way that centers the four outcomes of the Framework: if architects can only do one thing, here are brief suggestions to design zero-carbon, resilient, equitable, and healthy projects.

For more information, read the Press Release and view The Framework for Design Excellence

AIA Selects Ten Projects for Healthcare Design Awards

The year’s best healing spaces, presented by the AIA’s Academy of Architecture for Health
View Winners

Some of AIA’s Top Honors & Awards are Open for Submission

View available submission opportunities and make Colorado proud!
View Submissions Currently Open

NCARB Releases Annual Data Report on State of Architectural Licensure

The findings in NCARB by the Numbers are pulled from NCARB’s database of over 128,000 licensure candidates and architects, making this annual report the most comprehensive source for licensure statistics. Explore data on the number of licensed architects, gender and racial diversity, and attrition along the path to licensure.

See Report

Student Loan Forgiveness, Repayment Programs are Critical

Korey White, AIA, reacts to the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision on student loan relief and shares how the burden of college debt has impacted her career. 
Read More

New Survey Results Highlight Evolving Trends in Home and Property Design

Home sizes are stabilizing, and clients are looking for value in upgrades.
For more infomation, read the Press Release and view the Latest Survey Results

Women’s Leadership Summit

Registration is open for Women’s Leadership Summit 2023! This premier event is designed for ambitious women who want to unlock their full potential, make a lasting impact on their careers, and lead change in architecture and the allied professions. 

Join AIA members in Boston September 12–14, 2023, to meet, network with, and learn from an extraordinary lineup of renowned speakers, trailblazing leaders, and industry experts—and earn up to 45 AIA LUs. 

Register 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

Looking for Additional Resources?

View AIA Colorado’s Allied Member Directory.

“We are blessed to have places like Civic Center – a beautiful, architectural campus that is Denver’s first National Historic Landmark. But what truly makes Civic Center special – and the heart of our city – is that it is a place where we come together as a community, where we build the social fabric that ties us together. It is the place where we celebrate, where we participate, where we pause and where we play.   

This is the place where we gather with our neighbors– where we learn to support and take care of one another – where we participate in democracy – this is the place where we practice tolerance and learn to co-exist. This is the place where as a community we should strive to put our best foot forward.   

This is the power of public space. This is the purpose of public space.”

— Eric Lazzari, Executive Director of the Civic Center Conservancy

On September 19th, join AIA Colorado as we unveil the recipients of the 2023 Design + Honor Awards and celebrate the exemplary work of Colorado architects.

Taking place at Mile High Station, we look forward to welcoming you at 5:30pm to enjoy the music of Spinphony, delicious food and drink, and an event program beginning right at 7pm. This year’s jury enjoyed the incredible selection of work that our member architects submitted, and we’re thrilled to present both the Design Award winners as well as the Honor Award recipients.

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations Closes July 7th

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 Friday, July 7th at 5pm.

Expo hall booth and sponsorships will open soon, with preference given to Premier Partners and Allied Members first. If you’re interesting in viewing the Engage Practice + Design Conference prospectus, you can view it here.

Code Class: 2023 Pikes Peak Regional Building Code (2021 IBC update)

This July 19th, review changes from the last edition to the current edition of the International Building Code as recently adopted by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department and go into effect June 30th. The background behind many of the changes will be discussed to provide participants with an understanding of the intent of the changes and how to apply it to their everyday work. Subjects covered in the class will include the code change process, mixed occupancies, atriums, accessible means of egress, and more. This full-day program includes lunch and will be submitted for approval for 6.0 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hours. Early registration rates expire July 12th!

The State of the Art of Architecture

Thursday July 27th at the Aspen Art Museum, join AIA Colorado, CORE, and rowland+broughton for an exploration of the present and future state of sustainable architecture in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley. Space is limited, please RSVP in advance.

Mud Futures Installation at History Colorado

With roots in Colorado’s Conejos County and as a professor of architecture at UC Berkeley, Ronald Rael challenges us to think differently about materials, space, borders, and linear time. In his upcoming installation at History Colorado, Rael uses modern-day 3D printing to reimagine the 7,000-year-old technology of adobe, and will be creating a large structure out of an adobe mixture of clay, straw, and sand on the front porch of the History Colorado Center! Visitors are invited to witness his work in progress July 7–9, or plan a visit soon after its completion. View video of the process.

Learn more about the upcoming pop-up exhibition.

Telluride Art + Architecture Week

Taking place the week of July 10 – 16, Telluride Art + Architecture Week is an immersive art experience showcasing the architectural, landscape, interior design, and creative talent of Telluride. Join fellow architects Friday, July 14th, for Design Industry Day, presented by Altitude Control Technology, CCY Architects, Dornbracht, Henry Built and Delta Millworks. Continuing Education courses are followed by a social networking event.

Todd Kennedy, AIA, and Jenny Trumble, AIA, from CCY Architects will also be giving a presentation on DNA Alpine at Telluride Art & Architecture week, July 12th.

The Madeline Hotel hosts the event and offers preferred rates to design industry participants. View more information

DEN’s Business Development Training Academy – Concourse 100 program

DEN’s Business Development Training Academy is now accepting applications for its Concourse 100 program. This is an entry level 9-week program for small businesses in the A/E/C industry who are interested in learning how to work at DEN. Please share this with your small business network. Deadline to apply is July 16th.

More information

Habits of the Anthropocene

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

Women’s Leadership Summit

Registration is open for Women’s Leadership Summit 2023! This premier event is designed for ambitious women who want to unlock their full potential, make a lasting impact on their careers, and lead change in architecture and the allied professions. 

Join AIA members in Boston September 12–14, 2023, to meet, network with, and learn from an extraordinary lineup of renowned speakers, trailblazing leaders, and industry experts—and earn up to 45 AIA LUs. 

Register here

Pride by Design is Building a Community for LGBTQIA+ Architects

The new initiative founded by Sarah Nelson-Woynicz, AIA, aims to build connection and community among LGBTQIA+ architects. 
Read more

AIAU: Achieving Zero Energy Building Design

Improve your skills in high-efficiency building design with this highly interactive learning program based on the Advanced Energy Design Guide for K-12 School Buildings.
Learn more

When Is Modular Construction Best Employed on Projects?

Modular construction can be an attractive delivery model for many projects. Consider these factors when determining whether modular construction is appropriate for your project.
Read more

Construction Risk Brief

Consider subscribing to AIA Contract Documents’ Official Newsletter: Construction Risk Brief. AIA Contract Documents is excited to launch a monthly newsletter so you can stay up-to-date on all things risk management in the construction industry. From articles to webinars to videos, hear from the industry’s leading experts on how to expect and handle risk at every point of your project.
Sign up

ABI May 2023: Architecture Firm Billings Bounce Back

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI) score for the month was 51.0, the highest it has been since last September.
Read more

“It’s been incredibly inspiring to see the breadth and depth of the work that you all have shared with us. It’s all encompassing, it is broad, and I loved how you embraced the design measures of excellence.”

— Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, Jury Chair, AIA Design Awards, addressing the 2023 Design Award Submissions.

In addition to our 2023 Design Awards Jury meeting in San Francisco to deliberate on this years’ entrants, AIA Colorado members and staff took in the many keynotes, lectures, learning labs, social meetups, and strolled the expo hall floors at A’23. Catch up on some of the events that took place as well as keynotes from the main stage here.

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, ENGAGE, is focused on the big topics and discussions that face our industry, our practices, and our communities. We’re interested in conversations where the stakes are great and the opportunities are real, creating chances for us to propel our profession forward, right here in Colorado.

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 Friday, July 7th at 5pm.

Expo hall booth and sponsorships will open soon, with preference given to Premier Partners and Allied Members first. If you’re interesting in viewing the Engage Practice + Design Conference prospectus, you can view it here.

2023 Legislative Session Recap

Advocacy Engagement Director Nikolaus Remus, AIA, covers the top bills affecting the architecture profession from the 2023 legislative session. This part 1 will go into detail on the bills AIA Colorado took action on. A future part 2 will give a broad overview of other bills that may be of interest to members.

Read more

Colorado’s New Statewide Energy Code Means Lower Costs, Better Air Quality

As the standards better accommodate solar panels and electric vehicles, Colorado just finalized its new statewide energy code, but what does that mean for new construction? Learn more in Colorado Newsline from AIA Colorado’s Advocacy Engagement Director, Nikolaus Remus, and Executive Director of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Colorado, Heidi M. Gordon, as they break down the implications of the new energy code.

Read more

Code Class: 2023 Pikes Peak Regional Building Code (2021 IBC update)

This July 19th, review changes from the last edition to the current edition of the International Building Code as recently adopted by the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department and go into effect June 30th. The background behind many of the changes will be discussed to provide participants with an understanding of the intent of the changes and how to apply it to their everyday work. Subjects covered in the class will include the code change process, mixed occupancies, atriums, accessible means of egress, and more. This full-day program includes lunch and will be submitted for approval for 6.0 AIA CES Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) learning unit hours. Early registration rates expire July 12th!

The State of the Art of Architecture

Thursday July 27th at the Aspen Art Museum, join AIA Colorado, CORE, and rowland+broughton for an exploration of the present and future state of sustainable architecture in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley. Space is limited, please RSVP in advance.

Under a Denver Highway, Artists Find Space for the Surreal

The art collective Meow Wolf worked with local architects to create a trippy “Convergence Station” on a wedge-shaped site beneath a busy interstate. Hear from Dan Craig, architect and principal for Shears Adkins Rockmore, in Bloomberg.
Read more

2022 Denver Energy Code Training Series

Want to learn more about what is changing for commercial/multifamily and residential buildings when the 2022 Denver Energy Code goes into effect? Join City of Denver for a comprehensive training series that will teach you about key changes in the new code. Feel free to join for specific topics or the entire series, which includes content for both commercial and residential project teams. ICC and AIA/HSW continuing education credit will be provided.

View more information

Telluride Art + Architecture Week

Taking place the week of July 10 – 16, Telluride Art + Architecture Week is an immersive art experience showcasing the architectural, landscape, interior design, and creative talent of Telluride. Join fellow architects Friday, July 14th, for Design Industry Day, presented by Altitude Control Technology, CCY Architects, Dornbracht, Henry Built and Delta Millworks. Continuing Education courses are followed by a social networking event.

Todd Kennedy, AIA, and Jenny Trumble, AIA, from CCY Architects will also be giving a presentation on DNA Alpine at Telluride Art & Architecture week, July 12th.

The Madeline Hotel hosts the event and offers preferred rates to design industry participants. View more information

DEN’s Business Development Training Academy – Concourse 100 program

DEN’s Business Development Training Academy is now accepting applications for its Concourse 100 program. This is an entry level 9-week program for small businesses in the A/E/C industry who are interested in learning how to work at DEN. Please share this with your small business network. Deadline to apply is July 16th.

More information

Temple Hoyne Buell Endowed Ambassadorial Scholarship

The Temple Hoyne Buell Endowed Ambassadorial Scholar Program provides $30,000 scholarship awards for undergraduate or graduate studies outside the USA. Scholars must commence studies between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 and expend the scholarship funds within 12 months of starting studies. Study must be in the field of architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning or related subjects.

More information

Habits of the Anthropocene

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

AIA Elects Evelyn Lee as its 2025 President

Evelyn Lee, FAIA, has been elected the 2025 president of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Lee will first serve as the 2024 AIA First Vice President/2025 President-elect, before beginning her one year term as president in 2025.
Read more

In addition to Evelyn Lee, 2 new leaders have been elected to the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Board of Directors.

Read more

Webinar: Artificial Intelligence – Rhetoric and Reality

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a buzzword that companies across all industries are using in a variety of ways to imply innovation. It has become, by all generally accepted definitions, a market bubble. Contract document management is no exception. Sign up in advance for the free webinar taking place July 12th, 12 – 1 pm MT | 1 LU. 
Register here

AIA23: Global Insights on Tech for Architects

BIM 2.0, AI (artificial intelligence), and talk of the Apple Vision Pro were highlighted points in multiple discussions with technology vendors at A’23.
Read more at Architosh

CCY named a finalist in Architizer A+ Awards

DNA Apline home was named in the Best Residential Firm category for this year’s Architizer A+ Awards and also received an Honor Award from Residential Design Magazine.
Read more

Tryba’s GoSpotCheck Headquarters in Architect Magazine

See more at Architect Magazine

How A.I. Is Helping Architects Change Workplace Design

With more hybrid workers and new office needs, firms like Zaha Hadid Architects are turning to artificial intelligence for solutions. 
Read more at NY Times

The 8 Best New Design, Architecture, and Urbanism Books Out This Summer

Looking for some Summer reading? Check out these suggestions from Curbed.
Read more at Curbed

The AEC Cares service project has made a positive impact in national conference host cities since 2011. Bringing together AIA participants, a pro-bono design team, and donations from industry partners, a local non-profit receives a comprehensive makeover. This year, youth services non-profit The Lark Inn transformed their shelter in the Tenderloin District. AIA Colorado staff members Nikolaus Remus and Mike Waldinger were among the 140 volunteers on hand. AEC Cares was co-founded by Mike who continues to serve as a board member.

I was honored to represent the members of AIA Colorado at A’23 two weeks ago in San Francisco.  It was the largest gathering of architects since 2019 and the energy was infectious! I spent Wednesday in the annual business meeting, voting on overall organization policy changes and listening to the national board candidates speak about how they will lead the future of AIA and its members. The voting on Thursday resulted in the election of two powerful and insightful leaders. Evelyn Lee, FAIA, won President-elect and Latoya Kamdang, AIA, as At Large Director. Evelyn is well known to AIA Colorado having spoken previously to our Business of Architecture and CKLDP groups. The days were filled with keynote speakers, presentations, panels, and a wealth of information on the expo floor.  It was great to see members of AIA Colorado at the happy hour on Thursday, thank you for coming!

My overall take aways from this importation national gathering of colleagues, is the immense opportunity and obligation we have to lead our communities, clients, and each other into the future that is balanced with nature and all humans. The nature of our work as architects at any level or role is leadership. We must continue to knowledge share with each other and coalesce to rise to today’s challenges. 

Sitting on a “Women At The Helm” panel with colleagues, Kerry Nolan, AIA, Elizabeth Leber, AIA, Angela O’Byrne, FAIA, reinforced the power of togetherness and the importance of continuing to take steps forward daily. 

— Sarah Broughton, FAIA, President AIA Colorado

Three outstanding architects from Colorado have been newly elevated to the College of Fellows, one of the highest honors bestowed by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), and were celebrated at the College of Fellows Investiture Ceremony.

Ron Abo, FAIA, Principal at The Abo Group, Victor Olgyay, FAIA, Principal at Rocky Mountain Institute, and Brad Tomecek, FAIA, Principal at Tomecek Studio Architecture, were recognized for their contributions to the architecture profession, and their dedication to advancing the built environment. Only 3 percent of AIA’s 95,000 members hold this distinction and only 76 new fellows were inducted this year, a historically small number. Even in a historically small group of inductees, Colorado had the largest class of new Fellows in five years!

“It’s been incredibly inspiring to see the breadth and depth of the work that you all have shared with us. It’s all encompassing, it is broad, and I loved how you embraced the design measures of excellence.”

— Yiselle Santos Rivera, AIA, Jury Chair, AIA Design Awards, addressing the 2023 Design Award Submissions.

After months of anticipation and 118 projects submitted, our 2023 Design Awards Jury was finally able to meet in San Francisco and deliberate on this years’ entrants. The jury was immensely impressed with the quality of the work taking place in Colorado and thoughtfully engaged with their decisions for the whole day. While you’ll have to wait until September 19th’s Awards Celebration at Mile High Station to find out which projects won (tickets on sale soon!), we can confidently say that a lot of care and thought went into this phase of the process by a jury dedicated to the task. Thank you CRI & Canoa for hosting our jury deliberations!

“Successfully completing any project is a minor miracle these days. Thank you once again for your time and effort. We think you will like what you see.”

— Mike Waldinger, CEO AIA Colorado, addressing the 2023 Design Award jury

Thank you to everyone who took the time and energy to submit a project for the 2023 Design + Honor Awards. We received 118 Design Award submissions, from all over the state, and are ready for the jury to evaluate them this week in San Francisco, while in town for A’23. We could not be more proud of the high degrees of excellence that our membership and are on the edge of our seats to see what the jury decides.

Practice + Design Conference Call for Presentations Now Open

That’s right, its been a few years, but we’re opening up a call far and wide for presentations at this November’s conference! 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, ENGAGE, is focused on the big topics and discussions that face our industry, our practices, and our communities. We’re interested in conversations where the stakes are great and the opportunities are real, creating chances for us to propel our profession forward, right here in Colorado.

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 Friday, July 7th at 5pm.

If you’re interesting in viewing the Engage Practice + Design Conference prospectus, you can view it here.

J.E.D.I. Education Pipeline Committee

The J.E.D.I. Education Pipeline Committee is focused on introducing school-age students to architecture in an effort to expand career pathway exploration and diversify the profession. There are a variety of upcoming opportunities for architects, architectural interns, and allied professionals to share their journey with middle and high school students in the Denver Public School (DPS) system.

View Mentoring and Engagement Opportunities

Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP): 2023 Mid-Year Recap

The first four sessions of the year have provided participants with a diverse range of topics and perspectives. By addressing topics such as entrepreneurship, management, D.E.I., and practical leadership tools, these sessions have equipped the participants with valuable knowledge, insights, and tools for their personal and professional growth. Catch up with session recaps shared by Executive Committee member Jack Reed, AIA.

Read more

Children’s Hospital North (Broomfield) Building Tour

Join our Academy of Architecture for Health Knowledge Community, June 13th, for a tour of the Children’s Hospital North, covering their recent major renovation and addition project. Space is limited.

The State of the Art of Architecture

Thursday July 27th at the Aspen Art Museum, join AIA Colorado, CORE, and rowland+broughton for an exploration of the present and future state of sustainable architecture in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley. Space is limited, please RSVP in advance.

Congratulations to Heather Salisbury who has recently been announced as Director of Operations at Valeria Dewalt Train.

2022 Denver Energy Code Training Series

Want to learn more about what is changing for commercial/multifamily and residential buildings when the 2022 Denver Energy Code goes into effect? Join City of Denver for a comprehensive training series that will teach you about key changes in the new code. Feel free to join for specific topics or the entire series, which includes content for both commercial and residential project teams. ICC and AIA/HSW continuing education credit will be provided.

View more information

Mycelium Making Exhibition Closing Reception

On June 14, visit College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver for the closing reception of Mycelium Making: Creating Worlds in the Anthropocene.

RSVP here

Habits of the Anthropocene

The ACADIA Board of Directors and the College of Architecture and Planning at the University of Colorado Denver are excited to announce the 2023 conference Habits of the Anthropocene: Scarcity and Abundance in a Post-Material Economy which will be held in person in Denver, CO from October 26-28th, 2023.

View Conference Website

NOMA Mid Year Members Celebration

On June 15th, join the Colorado NOMA Chapter for some outdoor fun, it’s a homecoming, a celebration of life & a gathering of all our NOMA friends!

Register here

NOMA Project Pipeline

The NOMA Colorado Project Pipeline Architecture Summer Camp is a 2 day intensive studio-based program that introduces middle school students (ages 7-13/grades 2-7) 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.

View more

ICAA Rocky Mountain Chapter’s Jacques Benedict Awards

Established to acknowledge, support, and advance traditional concepts in craftsmanship design within the Rocky Mountain Region, award categories arearchitecture, interior design, landscape architecture, historic preservation, craftsmanship, allied arts, literature and journalism, among others. Entry deadline is June 16 and projects must be within Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Wyoming, or Montana and have been completed within the last 10 years, 2013 – 2023.

Learn more

Telluride Art + Architecture Week

Taking place the week of July 10 – 16, Art + Architecture is a weeklong immersive art experience showcasing the architectural, landscape, interior design, and creative talent of Telluride. Join fellow architects Friday, July 14th, for Design Industry Day presented by Altitude Control Technology, CCY Architects, Dornbracht, Henry Built and Delta Millworks. Continuing Education courses are followed by a social networking event.The Madeline Hotel hosts the event and offers preferred rates to design industry participants.

View more information

Canstruction Colorado

Canstruction® Colorado is a city-wide competition in which architects and designers build life-size structures entirely out of canned food, which will be donated to We Don’t Waste and distributed to local communities at the end of the exhibit. They have opened their call for entries and have a few spots available. View their “Canstruction 101 slide deck” or Visit website for information

Temple Hoyne Buell Endowed Ambassadorial Scholarship

The Temple Hoyne Buell Endowed Ambassadorial Scholar Program provides $30,000 scholarship awards for undergraduate or graduate studies outside the USA. Scholars must commence studies between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025 and expend the scholarship funds within 12 months of starting studies. Study must be in the field of architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning or related subjects.

More information

AIA National Is Looking For Volunteer Leaders Like You!

Represent Colorado and help AIA promote the work of the Knowledge Communities and other AIA member groups by joining a 2024 leadership group. Volunteers support their community by:

• increasing engagement
• presenting at events and producing content
• participating in monthly meetings

The application process closes at 5pm ET on June 16.

Learn More & Apply

AIA Helps Spearhead the Search for the Next Architect of the Capitol

The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) search process is now officially underway, and AIA is working to support a licensed architect as the next candidate for the AOC position. AIA representatives are working closely with key congressional offices and the executive search firm hired by Congress to manage the recruitment for this position.
Read more

Women’s Leadership Summit

Taking place in Boston, this September 12-14, will be the Women’s Leadership Summit. Founded by AIA, this is a premier event that brings together the industry’s largest network of diverse women who are breaking down barriers, making themselves visible, and manifesting the careers they want—while making a difference in the world.

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AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index Reflects Continued Weakness in Business Conditions in April

Architecture firms reported a modest decrease in April billings. However, there was a slight increase in inquiries into future project activity according to a report released today from The American Institute of Architects (AIA).

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