I Am AIA:

Tim Rhodes, RA, AIA

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WHY DID YOU JOIN AIA SEATTLE?

I’ve been a member of the AIA since 1987 and support AIA Seattle because this strong, dynamic chapter of Architect’s best professional organization is moving the industry forward every day.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF AIA TO YOU?

The American Institute of Architects provides critical support to small, active firms like Rhodes Architecture + Light and brings design and sustainability to the public in ways no other organization can or is.

WHAT RELATIONSHIPS HAVE YOU CREATED?

My firm has brought good design, sustainability, greenspace, and wellness-centered design to hundreds of Puget Sound residents, businesses, and even a construction training council, creating friendships and long-term relationships along the way.

WHAT PROJECT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW?

A long house in a forest glade west of Seattle.

HOW DO YOU EXPLAIN WHAT YOU DO FOR A LIVING?

I note that Architects listen and then create the instructions for a better-built world.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TODAY?

A Great Blue Heron fishing on Elliott Bay.

HAS YOUR CAREER TAKEN YOU ANYWHERE YOU DIDN’T EXPECT?

Through the AIA and lure of Architecture I have been to ancient ruins, stood in the attic of the 13th-century cathedral of Saint Francis in Assisi, walked the walls of Pompei in morning mist.

WHERE IS THE FIELD OF ARCHITECTURE, ENGINEERING OR CONSTRUCTION HEADED?

Architecture is becoming more responsible, more dedicated to the wellness and sustainable lives of the users, less energy-intensive, more dedicated to simple solutions.

CAN DESIGN SAVE THE WORLD?

Yes, if enough were interested in applying design. Our schools need to teach design and the value of thinking about the impact of our built world from an early age.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO CONTRIBUTE FROM YOUR WORK?

Personal spaces that nurture a connection to the built world, which embraces a connection to the natural world.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEATTLE-AREA STRUCTURE?

The Fremont Troll!

IF YOU COULD SUM UP YOUR OUTLOOK ON LIFE IN A BUMPER STICKER, WHAT WOULD IT SAY?

“Dwell on the beauty of life.”