The American Institute of Architects, over a Century and a Half Later Shares Views on Architecture for the Today and Tomorrow

 

As we progress into an ever-growing generation of advancement in technology and future sustainability, The AIA’s Media Relations Manager, Matthew Tinder, talks with VIATechnik on the Institute’s own progressive journey in today’s world setting and for the future to come.

VT: The AIA originally started because there wasn’t an institution or any official standards set for professional architects in the U.S. More than a century later, the AIA has fully realized that original goal. In what ways have licensed architects since then shaped today’s building industry?

MT: Architects stand at the forefront of the building and construction industry. Years before those in the real estate industry were touting the benefits of energy efficient buildings, architects were designing and employing sustainable designs. Without architects, the green building movement would likely consist of just solar panels and triple glazed windows.

Architects give the buildings a sense of place, style, and purpose. 

VT: Today’s world is in a movement geared towards design and technology that allows us to cut out waste time and increase productivity and pleasure. How do you see architecture and design coming together now or in the future to accommodate this need?

MT: With the advancements made in BIM as well as the increased use of integrated project delivery methods, everyone involved in construction can produce a better product in less time. This efficiency allows architects to work closer with others on the building side, which will ultimately reduce change orders and limit any miscommunications that can hamper the success of a project.

VT: What are some examples of architectural design, in your opinion, that are leading the forefront of what architecture will most likely develop into towards the end of this century?

MT: City resilience and healthy buildings. Super storm Sandy helped initiate the conversation about structural and city resilience. Architects around the world know the most important structures are the ones that will be left standing after a major weather event. The 3 designs selected for AIA’s “Designing Recovery” Competition Award exemplify this concept: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB100240

Additionally, how buildings impact their occupants’ health will also influence designs in the future. Most people aren’t aware of the impact buildings have on their health. As architects incorporate more design concepts that help people maintain their health, the idea that design intersects with the healthcare industry will grow in awareness: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB104171

The AIA works with other organizations to help develop healthier buildings and expand the scope of this topic: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB104577

VT: In the world today many of our environments are negatively affected by pollution and development. Where does the AIA stand when it comes to “Green” initiatives and sustainability for the future?

MT: The AIA has and will continue to be a proponent of sustainable design. The AIA’s ‘Top Ten Green Projects’ award program, now in its 18^th year, was the first and continues to be one of the only award program that recognizes the best in sustainable design: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB103628

The AIA believes that all design, should be sustainable design. To reach this goal, it is imperative that everyone in the building industry shares this ideal. The AIA has joined leading building industry groups to develop a better tool to implement green codes: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB104469

The AIA stands with the International Union of Architects (UIA) to achieve this goal: http://www.aia.org/press/AIAB104437 

VT: Why would it be important for all aspiring architects to seize the ideals of sustainability and the Green movement?

MT: First and foremost, it’s the responsible thing to do – for both their clients and the community. Lowering utility costs and producing a building that keeps its occupants healthier, will make clients happy, but reducing CO2 emissions from the built environment will have a resounding positive impact on generations to come.

VT: What are the AIA’s biggest hopes for the upcoming future of the Architectural industry?

MT: As an organization we strive to provide our members with the tools they need to be successful. Whether it’s advocating for small business tax reform for architecture firms to legislators or providing access to the best continuing education classes – serving AIA members is our top priority. Increasing the level of quality for such services is an aspiration everyone at the AIA shares.

 

For more information on the AIA and how to become a member visit their website THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS