News & Events

News //byline AIA California December 20, 2024 From: game changing code changes and climate strategies to initiatives embraced by firms and members establishing a #cultureshift to a slew of essential education opportunities designed to support members addressing new opportunities in housing to MDC, the much heralded AIA California Conference thanks to the efforts of you, our members, 2024 has been an incredibly productive year. Take a top level visit to the advances of 2024: Click here

News //byline Winston L. Thorne, AIA – 2024 AIA CA President December 19, 2024 As I approach the end of my term as your President, I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude, reflection, and hope for the future of the profession. This year has been nothing short of extraordinary, not only for what we have accomplished together as Californian Architects but for what it has meant to me personally as the first Black or African American Architect to serve in this role. Our work this year, through your efforts, has been in observance of our Strategic Plan and advanced our shared mission of championing the transformative power of architecture and design excellence in shaping a more equitable, sustainable, and inspiring world. Together, we: Prioritized “engagement” among our peers to fulfill our commitment to selecting a Governance Model that addresses the contemporary needs of AIA California comprehensively. This engagement model will act as a platform for the development of relevant volunteerism and effective leadership in the years to come. Advocacy efforts by architects like yourself aimed and continue to raise climate awareness through civic activism at the local, state, and national levels. These efforts promoted sustainable design strategies for implementing greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations and achieving carbon neutrality standards. The American Institute of Architects California, our Members, received the California 2024 Policy Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council California for their contributions and building code reforms. Ongoing Equity Diversity Inclusion (EDI) and Cultural Shift programs have significantly expanded the diversity narrative within the organization. These initiatives are being implemented through enhanced board engagement and leadership visibility at various levels. This was achieved by providing access and a platform for individuals to voice their opinions and address the unconscious bias that continues to dampen certain aspects of the design profession. 2024 offered the inaugural occasion for an AIA California President to preside over the AIA Alaska Design Awards Program, which was organized by the AIA California Staff. As President, having the opportunity to present the significance of architects as advocates for the built environment through our “architectural intelligence” (a different “AI”) at various civic venues is becoming more prevalent and encouraged. Another notable event was the gathering of Big Sibs and the Large States conference hosted by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Colorado in Denver, Colorado—the first time the two groups came together, with an opportunity to deepen ties. AIA National Executive, Staff members, and keynote speakers presented the organization’s state of affairs. Attendees engaged in discussions, listened to presentations and shared their thoughts and perspectives about the AIA organization. Attending my first Monterey Design Conference (MDC) as an AIA California President, member of the conference organizing committee, and host of the ceremonies was an extraordinary experience that left an indelible mark on my professional journey. This legacy conference continues to inspire, shift, and, through diversity, open up possibilities for practitioners and communities alike. During other AIA California ceremonies, the honor of presenting Mr. Wsayne Ruga, FAIA, and Mr. Tom Mayne, FAIA, with Lifetime Achievement Awards for me was unprecedented. Revitalized the California Architects Foundation (CAF) with exceptional current leadership, regents, sustaining members, partnerships, and programs benefiting students and candidates. CAF eloquently enriches communities and educates architects to ensure the future-proof of our profession in California. These few mentioned milestones are a testament to the collective vision, talent, and commitment of every member of this organization. I am deeply humbled by the opportunity to serve and to contribute to the legacy of the AIA California—a legacy that grows stronger through the diverse voices and perspectives we continue to uplift. Being the first Black President of this state has been a profound honor, one that underscores the importance of representation and inclusion in our profession. It is my hope that my presidency has opened doors for others and inspired future generations to see themselves reflected in leadership roles within architecture and beyond. As I pass the baton to our incoming 2025 AIA California President, Ms. Carina Mills, AIA, I am filled with confidence in their vision and leadership. I know they will continue to guide this organization with the dedication and innovation that help define our profession. Similarly, our esteemed colleague, Ms. Evelyn Lee, FAIA, who will also serve as our 2025 AIA President at the national level, will continue to lead and provide a broader relevance for architects beyond the profession. While my term as President concludes, my commitment to the AIA California remains steadfast. I look forward to supporting the incredible work ahead as we continue to lead the charge for design excellence, equity, and advocacy within our communities. I leave you with the following three words that deeply resonated with me during our time together. COURAGE    |  LISTEN    |    RESPECT In my newly appointed role as AIA California Strategic Councilor at the National level, I am eager to contribute to the shaping of the AIA organization’s future through a California architect’s perspective on leadership, the built environment, and the evolution of the profession. I am grateful for the honor of serving as your President. Your unwavering trust, collaborative spirit, and shared enthusiasm have made this experience truly unforgettable. Together, we have strengthened the existing foundation for progress that will undoubtedly endure far beyond this year. With heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for the future, Winston L. Thorne, AIA 2024 President, AIA California

Sponsorship //byline AIA California December 16, 2024 As we approach the end of the year, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support from our partners throughout 2024. Their generous contributions have played a pivotal role in advancing the mission of AIA California, benefiting our members, strengthening professional connections, and driving positive change within the architectural community. With them, we have been able to create opportunities for collaboration, education, and growth, all of which are essential to helping shape the future of our profession. Their commitment has not only helped foster stronger networks but has also contributed to the advancement of architecture, ensuring that our industry continues to thrive and evolve. With sincere thanks, we recognize each and every one of you and wish you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year! Pacific Coast Companies Energy Code Ace Arup BQE Software, Inc. Humboldt Sawmill Company Steelcase Tangram Graphisoft Epic Metals Swinerton Coral Stone USA Arch Record SkinRock USA Clark Pacific CMACN Vitro Glass tool Delta Millworks Extron Peninsula Building Materials Co. Hensel Phelps Gordon Huenther Malarkey Roofing Products Perkins & Will Hy Security Gate Operators Boulder Associates Clark Construction HGA KPFF Ratcliff Silverman & Light Sky Factory Taylor Design Whitehall MFG bulthaup WRNS Studio Sprung Brascia Builders Buehler CannonDesign CDG Builders CO Architects Cumming Management Group, Inc. Degenkolb Engineers DPR GDG Healthcare Architects HDR Inc. Healthcare Building Solutions IDS Group Latitude 33 Planning & Engineering Lionakis LPA Design Studios Mazzetti NBBJ P2S Saiful Bouquet Structural Engineers, Inc. Skanska USA Building SmithGroup Vantage Technology Consulting Group Walter P Moore ZGF Architects LLP Kuth Ranieri Gensler Collins + Collins Thrailkill.Architect LLC Studio VARA AIA Trust MATT Construction Practice LA

AIA CA Working for you //byline Nicki Dennis Stephens, Hon. AIA December 9, 2024 Greetings from the AIA California Office, Bringing the profession together to do more than anyone can do on their own is at the core of AIA California’s work. From the tallest office tower to the smallest single-family residential project, the design and delivery of architecture require a complex network of skilled individuals collaborating toward a shared vision. Architects, engineers, contractors, designers, and countless others contribute their expertise to bring ideas to life, ensuring that projects both perform and inspire. In this time when the impact of AI is uncertain, we recognize that the human factor is key in a profession which is fundamentally centered around people; cultivating the pipeline of emerging professionals is more important now than ever before. Recognizing these changing dynamics and the value design professionals bring to a variety of related industries, AIA California’s Academy for Emerging Professionals (AEP) creates access and opportunities for the next generation. Providing resources and support for next generation architects is a priority for our organization. From the widely popular ARE Study Hub (supporting those on the path to licensure) to the California Architectural Foundation’s new statewide internship program, CapX, to the AEP Awards, AIA California  brings together tangible resources and access to experienced practitioners to support and encourage the pipeline. ((Since we’re here, nomination packages for the AEP Awards close next week on Thursday, December 12.) While it may be easy to dismiss an awards program as an indulgent luxury when you’re knee deep in RFIs or contesting your local building department on the most basic permit issues, recognition programs are more than just accolades; they serve as milestones in a professional’s career, opening doors to networking opportunities and future prospects. Whether you know someone whose achievements deserve to be seen or are reflecting on your own future aspirations, this is a powerful way to celebrate excellence, showcase outstanding work, and elevate professionals. By highlighting remarkable accomplishments, we not only honor individuals or teams but also inspire others to pursue innovation and excellence, creating a ripple effect that drives progress, encourages creativity, and fosters interaction. Take a moment to consider  the variety of recognitions the AEP Awards encompass – from the Young Architects Award to the Firm Mentorship Award – and find out how AIA California is working for you to celebrate, elevate, and invest in this profession; it’s the only way to ensure its legacy. Nicki

AIA CA Working for you //byline Nicki Dennis Stephens, Hon. AIA December 9, 2024 Greetings from the AIA California Office, AIA California owes its success to the time and talent of our members. From committee work and event planning to leadership roles, thousands of members contribute in both big and small ways across the state. While the organization benefits immensely from this dedication, volunteerism also opens valuable opportunities for you individually. AIA California works for you to provide a network within the profession, creating mentorship possibilities, and potential job opportunities. Volunteering enhances professional skills through educational opportunities and workshops while also developing leadership skills. And finally, involvement brings recognition and enhances professional reputation. Volunteering keeps you informed of industry trends and provides access to valuable research and insights. Overall, it’s an incredible way to grow both professionally and personally as you connect with thought leaders, shaping the architectural profession and the communities we live, work and play. Volunteer leaders in California have advanced the profession significantly in the last five years. From helping establish the nation’s first embodied carbon code requirements to weighing in  on discussions with the State Fire Marshall to advocating for copyright protection and streamlining permit reform – the architects voice would not be heard in discussions impacting the built environment, your practice, or your firm without the active engagement of so many. Now is your chance to get involved and make a meaningful impact at the state level. We offer a range of volunteer opportunities, from quick tasks like curating quiz questions for an OnDemand course, to more long-term commitments such as serving on a committee. If you’re interested in volunteering with AIA CA in any capacity, please complete this form no later than December 2, 2024. We’ll do our best to match your skills and interests with the range of initiatives we’re pursuing on your behalf. Take this as a sign to engage with AIA California and learn firsthand how AIA California is Working for You. Nicki

In Memoriam //in memoriam November 12, 2024 Sim Van der Ryn, 1935 – 2024 | ‘Father of Green Architecture’ The theme of Sim Van der Ryn, AIA’s, career was: applying principals of physical and social ecology to architecture and environmental design, pioneering sustainable design at the community and the building scale. In the early years of his life, Van der Ryn’s family fled the Holocaust and war-torn Holland to the outskirts of New York City. The unspoken tragedy that he and his family left behind and his experiences of deserted marshes, beaches and vacant lots gave him a lifelong concern for social justice, equity, and ecology. As State Architect from 1975-1978, he developed the nation’s first government-initiated and energy efficient office building program and led adoption of energy standards and disability access standards for all construction in California. As an educator and researcher, Van der Ryn played a major role in bringing ecological design to children and adults of all ages. As a professor, he was a key force in establishing UC Berkeley’s international reputation as a leader in socially and environmentally responsible design. He was the author of several books about sustainable planning and design including Sustainable Communities (1986) with Peter Calthorpe and Ecological Design (1996) with Stuart Cowan. As a ‘Tribal Elder,’ Van der Ryn spoke at the famed Monterey Design Conference in 2003; the theme that year was ‘Doing Good.’ Van der Ryn was also founder of the Farallones Institute and its successor, the Ecological Design Institute, which offers training, education, and research services in ecological design to businesses, government agencies, professional organizations, and educational institutions.

AIA CA Elections //byline AIA CA Staff November 12, 2024 November 11, 2024. We are delighted to announce the election of the following AIA California Executive Committee Officers, Board Members, and Strategic Councilors (a National Position), elected at the Friday, November 8, 2024 AIA California Board of Directors meeting: 2025 First Vice President/President-Elect: Ginger Thompson , AIA 2025-2026 VP of Government Relations: Laura Knauss, AIA 2025-2026 VP of Education and Professional Development: Amy Eliot, AIA 2025-2026 VP of Communications and Public Affairs: Carol Lanham, AIA 2025-2026 VP of California CACE: Kristine Hammond, MBA 2025-2027 AIA Strategic Councilor (National Position): Winston Thorne, AIA 2025-2027 Young Architect Representative (National Position): Magdalini Eleni Vraila, AIA 2025-2026 Associate Director, South: Rebekah Dalton, Assoc. AIA 2025-2026 Student Director South: Kyle Kim The above individuals will be joining the 2025 AIA California President Carina Mills, AIA, and already elected and serving officers. AIA California leadership is comprised of two main groups, the Board of Directors and the board’s Executive Committee. Each holds different responsibility. The Board of Directors establishes policy. With elected leaders from across the state, it is composed of: individuals who represent 21 local components, ex officio members of the Executive Committee, and members who represent California at AIA, the national level. Implementing policy and overseeing organizational operations is the Executive Committee, which is comprised of the AIA California President, and eleven other elected members who oversee different areas such as the Vice-President of Government Relations, the Vice President of Professional Practice, and the Vice President of Climate Action. These Board Members are empowered to conduct the business of AIA CA and responsible for implementation of Board-directed policies.

wycdrn //byline Tibby Rothman, Hon. AIA|LACommunications Director, AIA California October 29, 2024 For the past 30 years, freshwater flooding in the US resulted in an average of $8.2bn loss[1] per year, though this average accounts for an upward trend recently. According to a 2018 study titled “Estimates of present and future flood risk in the conterminous United States” published in Environmental Research Letters, nearly 41 million people live within the floodplain nationally, and damage estimates from a 100-yr flood is $1.2 trillion. With sea-level rise, the impacts of flooding will continue to grow with more people getting affected and the damage estimates increasing (Wing, 2018). The following graph shows future flooding trends and the expected damage. The following graphs show the future flooding scenarios in various cities in the US. Where to Start You can make a difference in mitigating the flood impacts on buildings by adding a few simple steps to your design process. Carry out high-level studies to determine if the project location is in a flood plain or can be affected by floods in the future. The following link provides flood maps for various locations for current and future climate scenarios. https://coastal.climatecentral.org/. In addition, FEMA flood maps indicate flood hazard areas for various locations. It is recommended that projects in flood risk zones involve qualified consultants or engineers who can carry out accurate flood modeling and (a) identify Design Flood Elevation (DFE) and (b) identify all critical assets below the design flood elevation. (Tak, 2019). Design Flood Elevation (DFE) refers to the elevation that is used for determining the elevation of building elements in new construction[2]. Critical assets include components that support the function of the building during emergencies and otherwise. The Resilience Design Toolkit that is compiled by AIA and HKS recommends performing a Benefit Cost Analysis for each of the identified strategies for the project. The analysis yields a Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR) which is the ratio of the initial costs to the savings during perilous events. If the BCR is one or more, the strategy can be considered beneficial. What Designers Can Do Now The figure below summarizes the various strategies that designers can use to “flood-proof” the building. Building layout and access: As shown in the figure above consider elevating building access, emergency exits, and pedestrian infrastructure above the design flood elevation. Emergency exit stairways and corridors must be wet floodproofed and designed with flood vents to maintain the operation of the exit door. Critical Services: For projects that are in flood risk zones, floodproof low-lying electrical and other critical components. Locate electrical components and other critical components such as emergency power backup, and chemical storage facilities at an elevation higher than the Design Flood Elevation. Alternatively, the project can use a “compartmentalizing” approach to protect spaces that hold critical components from flood water. Electrical: The project can enhance the redundant power supply which entails serving the project with multiple power sources. While each of the power supplies provides a fraction of the power depending on the number of power sources, one or more power supplies can provide the entire power when other power sources fail (Vechy, 2021). Potable water storage: Plan for potable water storage on-site if the municipal potable water supply is compromised during floods. Sewer Lines: Installing backflow prevention valves on sewer lines can minimize stormwater and sewage flowing into buildings (City of Hoboken, 2015). Stormwater systems: Design stormwater systems to manage excess stormwater runoff during flood events and infiltration, where feasible. The following resource provides an online stormwater assessment tool https://coast.noaa.gov/stormwater-floods/analyze/ Foundation:a. Construct floors above the design flood elevation with the grade sloping away from the building. Consider raised slab and elevated pier foundation, if applicable, as opposed to the slab foundations[4]. Placement of fill under floor slabs is not recommended in flood-prone areas, rather allowing for “wet levels” under DFE by accommodating flood openings are recommended to allow flood water to flow in and out of the space and prevent foundation collapse because of uneven hydrostatic pressure[5] as shown in the figure below. Openings must be equally proportional to the floor area that it is enclosing as shown in the figures below. Areas exposed to flood water requires wet flood proofing. Building Enclosure: The following table from Designing for Natural Hazards: A Resilient Guide to Builders and Developers Volume 2 summarizes some of the building enclosure strategies to mitigate flood impacts to the building. Materials below DFE: The Resilient Building Design Guidelines published by the City of Hoboken recommends using reinforced concrete or steel below DFE and limiting the use of decay-resistant lumber, marine-grade wood, and carpeting. The guidelines recommend using only closed-cell insulation and avoiding the use of fiberglass insulation in areas that may encounter flood water. More detailed information is available in FEMA Technical Bulleting 2: Flood Damage Resistant Material Requirements. Miscellaneous:a. Elevators: While elevators can access areas below the Design Flood Elevation (DFE), it is recommended to locate elevator control equipment above the DFE. Float switches can prevent a can from going below the DFE during floods. FEMA’s Technical Bulletin 4: Elevator Installation for Buildings Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas provides additional guidelines for elevator design and installation in flood-prone areas. Tools and Resources https://coastal.climatecentral.org/. FEMA Flood maps https://coast.noaa.gov/stormwater-floods/analyze/ https://buildingscience.com/documents/building-science-insights/bsi-128-designing-floods#:~:text=All%20flood%20risk%20is%20reduced,foundations%20and%20crawl%20space%20foundations. https://longislandsoundstudy.net/our-vision-and-plan/thriving-habitats-and-abundant-wildlife/living-shoreline-projects/ https://coastalscience.noaa.gov/ https://opc.ca.gov/2024/01/draft-slr-guidance-2024/#:~:text=Key%20takeaways%20from%20the%20updated,in%20the%20next%2030%20years. FEMA Technical Bulletin 2: Flood Damage Resistant Material Requirements FEMA’s Technical Bulletin 4: Elevator Installation for Buildings Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas Resilient Building Design Guidelines by the City of Hoboken Resilience Design Toolkit by AIA and HKS Flood Damage Resistant Materials Requirement- FEMA Technical Bulletin 2 Designing for Natural Hazards: A Technical Guide for Builders and Developers- Volume 2 Water [1] (Wing, 2018) [2] https://fontanarchitecture.com/base-flood-elevation-design-flood-elevation/ [3] Resilience Design Toolkit, HKS and AIA [4] https://buildingscience.com/documents/building-science-insights/bsi-128-designing-floods#:~:text=All%20flood%20risk%20is%20reduced,foundations%20and%20crawl%20space%20foundations. [5] Resilient Building Design Guidelines by City of Hoboken

//byline Scott Terrell, Director of Government Relations October 29, 2024 AIA California is actively seeking input from our members working in the field of adaptive reuse to shape proposed changes to building standards that could facilitate adaptive reuse projects statewide. Your valuable insights will directly influence our formal response to the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) as they work to identify barriers and opportunities within adaptive reuse for residential projects. Background on AB 529 and the AB 529 Working Group Assembly Bill 529, passed as Chapter 743 of the Statutes of 2023, directs HCD to convene a working group to identify ways to support adaptive reuse. This process will ultimately inform HCD’s recommendations to the California Legislature, with findings due by December 31, 2025. The bill’s aim is to increase housing availability by exploring ways to repurpose existing buildings—like commercial spaces or offices—into residential units. The AB 529 working group, which AIA California has been a part of since its inception, is a collaborative effort to analyze and address the challenges and opportunities surrounding adaptive reuse. Now, as HCD has issued a Request for Information (RFI), it’s critical that stakeholders in the adaptive reuse sector provide detailed feedback on the current standards and regulations. Your perspective could be pivotal in influencing future policies that may simplify adaptive reuse conversions across California. Why Your Feedback Matters The information gathered from this RFI will play a central role in shaping policy recommendations that could streamline adaptive reuse projects, making them more feasible and accessible for developers, architects, and communities. Whether it’s specific building codes, zoning regulations, or other standards that impact the viability of these projects, your firsthand experience will be invaluable in guiding AIA California’s response to HCD. How to Participate To ensure that AIA California’s feedback is comprehensive and reflective of our members’ expertise, please complete the following survey sharing any obstacles or suggestions you believe are critical in improving adaptive reuse standards. Responses are requested by Monday, November 11, so we can incorporate your insights into our official response. View the Google Form for feedback. Thank you for your time and expertise. Your feedback could be instrumental in transforming California’s approach to adaptive reuse, making it a viable solution for housing needs across the state. For further information on AB 529, visit the HCD website or email AB529Workgroup@hcd.ca.gov. Let’s work together to make adaptive reuse a cornerstone of California’s housing future.

//byline Tibby Rothman, Hon. AIA|LA Communications Director, AIA California October 29, 2024 (October 30, 2024. Sacramento, CA.) The California Architectural Foundation, an AIA California organization that ignites interest in architecture and equips budding architects to thrive on their academic journey, is honored to announce the 2024 Robert J. Kain Healthcare Design Education Scholarship recipients. Four students who embody the mission of the scholarship—that architects have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of healthcare by creating hesaling environments that promote wellness, compassion, and innovation—were selected by a jury of architects with lengthy and recognized expertise in design and health care design: Lincoln Ruiz-Truong who thoughtfully addresses cultural and human issues Romi Sadlik whose work conceptualizes healthcare within a broader context Zahabiya Sakarwala who demonstrates a strong understanding of how healthcare design can be integrated with beautiful imagery Sheree Sparks who understands the healing aspects of environment The four are recipients of $8000 in scholarship funds. Ruiz-Truong and Sadlik were awarded $2500 each; Sakarwala and Sparks were awarded $1500 each. (See full jury comments below.) “This scholarship is not just an award; it represents a commitment to the future of healthcare architecture. It is a testament to the power of education, and an investment in the potential of young, passionate minds,” said AIA California President Winston L. Thorne, AIA. In awarding Ruiz-Thruong, Sadlik, Sakarwala, and Sparks, the jury noted how the four are already adeptly integrating contextual ideas with design. Lincoln Ruiz-Truong impressed the jury with the energy, passion, and commitment he brings to architecture. The jury went on to note that Ruiz-Truong combines his design work with a multicultural approach that thoughtfully addresses cultural and human issues. His focus on community sets him apart, and his sophisticated grasp of technology clearly informs his design decisions. Romi Sadlik’s ability to conceptualize healthcare within the broader context of society and societal equity was exceptionally strong, noted the jury. Addressing her submission, they said: the coherence between the personal essay and the work was remarkable, with each informing the other. The jury was impressed by how Zahabiya Sakarwala has successfully translated her personal experience with healthcare and wellness spaces into designs that connect on a human scale. The jury noted, Sakarwala’s project work demonstrates a strong understanding of how healthcare design can be integrated with beautiful imagery, showcasing an elevated level of design thinking across a range of projects. Sheree Sparks has a very interesting personal connection into healthcare and leveraged that as an interest point to develop her design sensibilities, noted the jury, who were impressed that her work showed an understanding of the healing aspects of environment with well developed and presented projects. The jury was comprised of: Amy Eliot, AIA – AIA California VP of Education & Professional Development; Gary R. Goldberg, AIA; Kent Hetherwick, AIA; Julia Weatherspoon; Assoc. AIA. This year, AIA California’s parent organization, the American Institute of Architects again provided matching grants through the 2024 AIA Component Matching Scholarship Grant Program. AIA National is pleased to support state and local components, or their affiliated foundations, in their efforts to provide and develop scholarship programs with the AIA Component Matching Scholarship Grant Program. The grant is provided to augment existing component scholarship programs and reinforce the role AIA has in preparing the next generation of architects. The California Architectural Foundation is grateful to all those who donated to the organization’s scholarship fund, creating a legacy through the students supported in these awards. About the California Architectural Foundation The California Architectural Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting excellence in architecture through scholarships, grants, and educational programs–bridging the gap between the academic and professional worlds. CAF exists to provide a mechanism for members of the AIA and the general public to contribute to an organization with a great benefit to society.