News & Events

Advocacy //byline Scott Terrell Director of Government Relations, AIA California January 16, 2025 Governor Gavin Newsom has issued Executive Order N-4-25 to expedite rebuilding efforts following the devastating fires in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. This directive introduces several measures directly impacting architectural practices in the affected regions. Key Provisions Relevant to Architects: Suspension of Environmental and Coastal Regulations: The order suspends the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and California Coastal Act requirements for projects repairing, restoring, demolishing, or replacing properties substantially damaged or destroyed by the fires. This suspension applies to properties rebuilt in the same location, not exceeding 110% of their original footprint and height. Extension of Price Gouging Protections: To prevent exploitation during the rebuilding phase, the order extends anti-price gouging protections for building materials, housing, storage services, emergency supplies, and construction services in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties until January 7, 2026. Encouragement of Resilient Rebuilding: The order emphasizes incorporating measures to increase community resilience, harden homes, and ensure defensible space to build resilience to future wildfires, to the greatest extent practicable. HCD Tasked with Streamlining Permitting processes: The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) has been tasked with: Coordinating with local governments to streamline permitting and inspection processes. Providing technical assistance to ensure compliance with rebuilding standards and safety codes. Developing guidance for integrating sustainable and fire-resistant materials in reconstruction projects. Additionally: The Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, the Office of Emergency Services, and the Department of General Services (DGS) shall, within 30 days, provide a report to the Governor identifying other state permitting requirements that may unduly impede efforts to rebuild properties or facilities destroyed as a result of this emergency. These agencies are tasked with updating the report every 60 days, as recovery and rebuilding efforts proceed, to identify additional permitting barriers for potential suspension. HCD, in consultation with DGS, the Office of the State Fire Marshal, and the California Energy Commission, shall, within 60 days, review and provide a report to the Governor with recommendations regarding any provision of the Building Standards Code, Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations, that should be suspended to facilitate rapid, safe, and cost-effective rebuilding and recovery. Give: AIA CA Members Responding to the Southern California Fires Are you an AIA member or architect who would like to contribute aid to those impacted by fires in Southern California? AIA California is coordinating relief and support in four ways: 1. direct financial assistance 2. temporary office space 3. pro bono services 4. an advocacy task force striving to enhance rebuild efforts and streamline permitting. Learn more here.

Advocacy //byline Scott Terrell, Director of Government Relations + Sarah Vasquez, Climate Action Program Coordinator, AIA California January 14, 2025 On Thursday, January 9, AIA California participated in a groundbreaking meeting with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government delegation and State of California officials, including the State Architect, to discuss California’s leadership in reducing embodied carbon in the built environment. California’s first-in-the-nation mandatory embodied carbon measures, now integrated into the building code, which AIA California was instrumental in getting passed, have gained global attention—including from Tokyo’s regional government, eager to learn from our state’s experience. The Tokyo delegation traveled to California interested in learning about the state’s strategies for developing and implementing embodied carbon ordinances, overcoming enforcement challenges, and achieving ambitious goals for 2030 and beyond. The cross-continental dialogue underscores the shared commitment to sustainable building practices and the importance of collaboration in addressing the climate crisis. The Tokyo delegation, who included members of the city’s Climate Change Division, were particularly interested in hearing details on each compliance pathway and if additional resources and training were available from the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) and the Division of the State Architect (DSA). While state agencies refer professionals to calgreeninfo.com, a valuable resource hub focused on the CALGreen code developed by the California Energy Codes and Standards team, in terms of educating and providing best practices to those within the profession, AIA California was the leading expert in the room. In meeting with Tokyo, the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) and the Division of the State Architect (DSA) discussed their agency’s role in code development and implementation for the state. Specifically, their formation of the CALGreen Carbon Reduction Collaborative (CCRC) was identified as a key element and strategy for the adoption of the embodied carbon measures. AIA California highlighted its position as a member within the CCRC, and how the organization along with other allies proposed the code changes and provided expertise in outlining the compliance pathways of Existing Building Reuse, Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) reporting, and Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment for carbon reporting. AIA California consultant Mike Malinowski, FAIA, dove into details and reasoning for the compliance pathways including building threshold sizes, other reference policies, and carbon accounting tools. For additional resources and training for practitioners around CALGreen and sustainability, it was advised to the delegation that AIA California stands as major provider for not only helping architects understand CALGreen, but for embodied carbon education and sustainable design resources for design professionals and the industry at large. Additional AIA California resources around CALGreen, embodied carbon, sustainability and Zero Net Carbon Design education was shared with the delegation, and as additional resources are developed will continue to be provided to the city of Tokyo as needed. Sharing our CALGreen code development story and resources to the city of Tokyo was a powerful representation of supporting climate action around the globe. Together, we’re shaping a global future that prioritizes sustainability in the built environment. Key Participants: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Delegation:Shunji Samejima, Director of Zero-Emission Housing PromotionShinichi Ohyabu, Deputy Director of Policy Planning & CoordinationMiki Ogawa, Staff Member for Zero-Emission HousingSayo Okada, AIA CPHC, Senior Research Fellow, Renewable Energy InstituteMegumi Horii, LEED AP, Built Environment Engineer, Nikken Sekkei LtdYukie Nakajima, Consultant, Nikken Sekkei Research Institute Division of the State Architect:Ida Antoniolli Clair, FAIA, LEED®AP BD+C, CASp, State ArchitectEric Driever, AIA, CASp, Principal Architect, Architectural Codes and Policies Team California Building Standards CommissionIrina Brauzman, Supervising Architect, California Building Standards Commission AIA California:Sarah Vasquez, Climate Action CoordinatorScott Terrell, Director of Government RelationsMike Malinowski, FAIA, AIA CA Code Consultant

News //byline Carina Mills, AIA – 2025 AIA CA President January 10, 2025 January 10, 2025 We are broken hearted by the devastation of the fires that have engulfed communities in the Los Angeles region in the last week—eviscerating pieces of our urban fabric. In the most severe cases, we have also tragically lost lives. For those of us on the outside, we know we can’t begin to feel the loss friends are experiencing. But, we can come together throughout the region and beyond to help in an immediate way through direct aid in two areas. Temporary Office Space While family, friends, and aid agencies are providing temporary shelter, we can support each other by providing temporary office space for firms who have either lost offices physically, or, having been displaced, are far from their existing offices. AIA California is identifying available office space and matching it with members in need. Offer Temporary Office Space, Click Here Be Matched with Temporary Office Space, Let Us know Here Direct Financial Assistance Many of our colleagues and friends left their homes with little. Daily life items that we take for granted are gone. We can help replace basic goods so they can focus on securing housing, dealing with insurance, situating children in school, and, in some cases, finding new transportation. To contribute direct financial assistance to members and communities in need: click here. We are all indebted to the firefighters who acted and continue to do so at great risk to themselves. In the wake of this week’s disaster, our commitment and advocacy for a more resilient and sustainable built environment is resolute. Carina Mills, AIA 2025 AIA California President

AIA CA Leadership //for immediate release Contact: trothman@aiacalifornia.org January 6, 2025 Mills melds a passion for architecture with unique experience empowering others. (January 7. 2025—Sacramento, CA) Carina Mills, AIA, who uses her considerable skills empowering colleagues to be engaged professionals through her passion and expertise in talent development, will lead the largest American of Institute Architects state component in 2025 as President, AIA California. Mills began her architectural journey addressing the specialized requirements of healthcare renovation projects, prior to championing talent development as Senior Director of Talent Management of RDC-Studio One Eleven in 2019. “[I am] dedicated to elevating esteem and value of the profession—striving to inspire, connect, and mentor architectural professionals at all levels of experience,” she said of the catalyst for her seeking AIA California’s highest leadership role. This belief has long translated in contributions during her previous elected positions at AIA California. Originally focused on empowering emerging professional as Vice President of the Academy of Emerging Professionals, Mills advocated for evolving models of membership, and that talent development should be more inclusive and honor varying strengths and talents across the career spectrum. This interest in advocating for changes in workplace culture continued as she served as Vice President of Professional Practice in 2023. As 2024 VP/President Elect, Mills helped lead the completion of AIA California’s recent restructuring of its Board of Directors—a careful and considered two-year process. Mills’ election to the AIA California presidency is the culmination of over a decade of service positions within the organization. As AIA California’s 2025 president, Mills will head the organization’s twelve-member Executive Committee which is charged with implementing policy set by AIA California’s full Board of Directors and overseeing operations of the organization. She will be joined by: Newly Elected AIA California Executive Committee Members: 2025 First Vice President/President-Elect: Ginger Thompson, AIA – DPR Construction 2025-2026 VP of Government Relations: Laura Knauss, AIA – Lionakis 2025-2026 VP of Communications and Public Affairs: Carol Lanham, AIA – DBIA 2025-2026 VP of California CACE: Kristine Hammond, MBA – AIA Long Beach/South Bay 2025-2027 AIA Strategic Councilor (National Position): Winston Thorne, AIA – Winston Thorne Architect 2025-2027 Young Architect Representative (National Position): Magdalini Eleni Vraila, AIA – Rottet Studio Re-elected: 2025-2026 VP of Education and Professional Development: Amy Eliot, AIA – SFO Already Sitting on Executive Committee: Secretary/ Treasurer: Sujendra Mishra, AIA – HDR VP of Professional Practice, Darrell “Rocky” S. Rockefeller, AIA – Rockefeller Partners Architects VP of Professional Practice VP of Climate Action: Lynn N. Simon, FAIA – ARUP VP of Strategic Planning & Research: Robert Drew Weigl, AIA – AXIA Architects Elected to the Board of Directors: 2025-2026 Associate Director, South: Rebekah Dalton, Assoc. AIA – Ethosphere Studio 2025-2026 Student Director South: Kyle Kim – USC ####About the American Institute of Architects California (AIA CA)AIA California is dedicated to serving its members, and uniting all architecture professionals in the design of a more just, equitable, and resilient future through advocacy, education, and political action. The organization represents the interests of more than 11,000 architects and allied professionals in California. Founded in 1944, the AIA CA is the largest component of the national AIA organization. For more information, visit www.aiacalifornia.org

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. Wayne 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, AIA2024 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.