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Culture Change in Practice: A Leadership Cohort 2023

Culture Change in Practice: a Leader Cohort

This four-part, peer-based learning program was designed by a team of architects and allied professionals as a response to racist violence, inequitable firm culture, and a segregated built environment. With the support of our facilitator, Dr. Anu Taranath, this program will provide architecture and allied firms the tools and community to meet the explicit goals and metrics laid out in NOMA NW’s Call-to-Action. 

The architectural profession is still predominantly white and predominantly male. Of the AIA Seattle’s over 2,600 members, just 30 are Black or African American, and 2 are Indigenous American, while only 32% are women or nonbinary according to AIA members’ self-reported data. Creating culture change within architecture and allied firms is a critical step to creating a more diverse and equitable profession and industry. And through this professional change, we hope to influence broader cultural change, due to the significant role architects play in crafting our physical environment.

This program is created in partnership with NOMA NW, and Planning in Color, and has been selected as a grant award winner for the 2023 Component Grants Program by AIA Trust.

>>> Want to learn more about the program and its impact? Join us at the Culture Change in Practice Mixer on Tuesday, August 15, 5:30-7:30pm PT at The Miller Hull Partnership. Learn more and RSVP here.

TARGET PARTICIPANTS – FIRM LEADERS

We invite a dedicated cohort of 40 firm leaders from the broader AEC industry. This peer-to-peer learning cohort, facilitated by Dr. Anu Taranath, will support firms’ ability to live up to the goals of the Call-to-Action pledge and equip leaders to catalyze change outward in their own firms. 

  • (40) Firm Leaders: lead firms, lead practice groups, lead teams, are direct supervisors, make key decisions and have significant influence and power in shaping the culture and staffing of the firm or projects i.e Principals, Partners, Owners – with the intent of facilitating broader impact within their firms and industry 

Space is limited! 

FULL SERIES COST 

Includes continuing education (12 LU) + light breakfast and refreshments for in person sessions

Per Person (Based on Firm Size)

PLEASE NOTE: Each registration confirms a spot for one individual based on the size of their firm. Up to two (2) individuals per firm may participate in the program. Individual workshop registration is not available.

$500  $575 (per person)  // Firm Size: 1-7 Employees 
$1000  $1,150 (per person) // Firm Size: 8-49 Employees 
$1500  $1,725 (per person)  // Firm Size: 50+ Employees 
$1500  $1,725 (per person) //  CAP Sponsors

Registration has closed

Early Bird Deadline: Register by Monday, August 28 to save 15%
Final Registration Deadline: Monday, September 11

Participants must attend all four courses (September 15, October 6, October 27, November 17, 2023) to receive continuing education credit or a certificate of completion. No partial credit will be awarded. All registration questions can be directed to Andrea Aguilera.

We’re excited to offer virtual and in-person workshops while keeping costs consistent with previous years, thanks to the support of AIA Trust and DLR Group! 

Reduced Rate Options

While we are striving to prevent or minimize the labor that BIPOC firm leaders are often asked to carry out in equity-related conversations, we recognize that our world’s power dynamics may unintentionally arise in this space. With that in mind, we encourage BIPOC and other marginalized participants to submit a reduced rate request. In addition, we recognize this fee may present hardship to some firms who are nevertheless committed to investing in the work. AIA Seattle has reserved limited funds for reduced rate requests, available on a first come, first serve basis (priority given to AIA members). Please submit the Scholarship / Reduced Rate Request Form via email by Monday, August 28, 5:00pm PT. 

MEET THE FACILITATOR

Dr. Anu Taranath, Dr. Anu Consulting: dialogues for justice | Dr. Anu Taranath is a speaker, author, educator, and racial equity consultant who partners with a range of people to deepen conversations on history, harm and healing. A University of Washington Seattle professor for the past 20+ years, Dr. Anu knows that the most compelling conversations on race, identity, power, and belonging take place when people feel valued and heard. She has received the Seattle Weekly’s “Best of Seattle” recognition, the University’s Distinguished Teaching Award, and multiple US Fulbright Fellowships to work abroad. As a consultant she has partnered with over 300 clients from National Geographic Society to the Raging Grannies. Her book “Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World” was named a Washington State Book Award Finalist, Newsweek’s Future of Travel Winner in Storytelling, and included in Oprah Magazine’s “Best 26 Travel Books of All Times.” Visit www.anutaranath.com to learn more.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

Cohort participants commit to engaging in all four sessions, understanding that the content is designed sequentially for cohort-based learning. All sessions subject to change.

September 15, 9am-12pm PT | Workshop 1: Power and Privilege | In-Person @ DLR Group (51 University St #600)

We will get to know one another in this session, and learn about the equity journeys of the firms represented. What are some of the general barriers to equity work? How might we handle discomfort in productive ways? How does a deeper awareness of our positionality in relation to others help us develop a responsibility toward stewardship, especially as leaders in our firm? This first workshop will explore what exactly equity stewardship looks like, especially since some firm leaders’ life experiences might look quite different from those on whose behalf they are advocating.

October 6, 9am-12pm PT | Workshop 2: Conflict Transformations | Online

Conflict is often seen as a barrier and obstacle to progress. We will unpack how we approach conflict, reframe these moments as opportunities to grow and better ourselves with practical skills and tools. Importantly, psychological safety is often a precursor to enable us to have tough conversations and navigate conflict with more stability and strategy. The better we are able to manage our feelings and navigate conflict, the more psychological safely we can enjoy. This second workshop will help build more connections between equity work, anti-racism, emotional literacy and leadership strategies.

October 27, 9am-12pm PT | Workshop 3: The Value Case and Business Case for Equity Work | Online

This third workshop will offer practical reasons why equity work makes sense for a firm’s overall culture and business. We will help participants define and more intentionally cultivate a safe/safer space for BIPOC and all staff, and to better understand how and why BIPOC comfort, thriving and success is “good for business” and indeed, integral for firm-wide success.

November 17, 9am-12pm PT | Workshop 4: Initiatives and Impact | In-Person @ DLR Group (51 University St #600)

This final workshop will serve as an opportunity for cohort members to collaborate and speak together based on the work their firm is doing around equity initiatives. We will share strategies and create foundations for collaboration. We’ll discuss how we measure impact and long-range success, and track our hopes and progress together.

In-person sessions (1 + 4) include an optional networking hour from 12-1pm. Guiding questions, readings, and/or worksheets may be sent to participants prior to, and following, each session. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Examine how inequitable firm management and top-down practices are resulting in negative design outcomes that impact the health and well-being of communities.
  • Share best practices around mentorship and paths-to-leadership for BIPOC and other historically marginalized people who are not typically seen in leadership positions in architecture and allied professions.
  • Explore how to navigate one’s own positioning of power and privilege through equity stewardship and responsible practice.
  • Expand leadership capacities by understanding conflict skills, emotional literacy, and psychological safety to transform project team collaboration.
  • Understand how and why BIPOC comfort, thriving, and success is “good for business,” integral to firm-wide growth, and directly correlated to meaningful engagement with the communities we’re designing for.
  • Develop skills and language to weave JEDI and anti-racism into project work – to better equip architects to prioritize the diverse social, physical, and emotional needs of occupants.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2023 CULTURE CHANGE SPONSORS

Sponsored by Parker, Smith & Feek, Victor, the CNA Insurance Companies, and The AIA Trust, providers of the AIA Trust Professional Liability Insurance Program.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PLANNING TEAM

Whitney Lewis Assoc. AIA, Diversity Roundtable/JE:DI Council/AIA Board of Directors/GGLO  |  Susan Frieson AIA, Diversity Roundtable/JE:DI Council/NOMA NW/AIA Membership Advancement Committee/ Weber Thompson  |  Kristen Riley Assoc. AIA, LMN Architects  |  Meredith Everist AIA, AIA Past Board of Directors/Baylis Architects  |  Jennie C. Li, Planning in Color  |  Marijana Misic AIA, AIA Board of Directors/Mahlum  |  Leon Holloway, NOMA NW/DLR Group  |  Alyssa M. Mitchell, Assoc. AIA, Weber Thompson  |  Shweta Sinha, AIA, Schemata Workshop  |  Lisa Morgenroth, AIA

PAST FIRM PARTICIPANTS

Architects Without Borders – Seattle | Arup | AssuredPartners | B+H Advance Strategy | Bassetti Architects | Berger Partnership | Betts, Patterson & Mines, P.S. | BuildingWork | Coughlin Porter Lundeen | DLR Group | Dykeman | Environmental Works | FSi Engineers | GGLO | HEWITT | Integrus Architecture | Johnston Architects | KPFF | Mahlum | McGranahan Architects | MG2  | Mithun | Nakano Associates  | NBBJ | Olson Kundig | Perkins+Will | Rice Fergus Miller, Inc | Schemata Workshop | Schreiber Starling Whitehead Architects | SHKS Architects | Signal Architecture + Research | Sundberg Kennedy Ly-Au Young Architects | The Miller Hull Partnership | third place design cooperative | VIA Architecture | Weber Thompson | Weinstein A+U | Weisman Design Group

 + Will you join this list? 

Registration or Credit Questions?
Contact Andrea Aguilera, Senior Programs Coordinator at AIA Seattle

Program Questions?
Contact Zoe Guckenheimer, Programs Manager at AIA Seattle

Sponsorship Questions?
Contact Melissa K. Neher, Executive Director at AIA Seattle

Posted in Allied Professionals, Architects, Associates, For the Profession, For the Public, Member Firms, Racial Justice Working Group, Uncategorized

Board of Directors Nominations 2023

Please vote for the 2023 slate of Board of Directors and Officers. by July 14.

AIA Seattle’s Board Nominating Committee is pleased to present this slate of accomplished members to fill open seats on our Board of Directors or current board members moving to officer positions or different positions beginning September 1, 2023. All AIA and Associate AIA members are eligible to vote. Votes are yes or no for each nominee, and write-in votes are allowed. Voting by at least 10% of the membership is required to validate an election, so please use the vote button below to make sure your voice is heard. 

Vote now!

Click here to vote

Matt Hutchins AIA, CPHD – (President-Elect) 2023 – 2024

Matt Hutchins AIA headshot

Matt is a founding Principal of CAST Architecture with a focus on creative infill housing as the nexus of low-carbon living, urban vitality, and social policy. Matt serves as a Director of Public Policy on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors and as the Strategic Councilor for AIA Washington Council. He has co-chaired AIA Seattle’s Housing Task Force and organized many public programs on urban design, housing, and accessory dwelling units. He was named AIA Seattle’s Volunteer of the Year in2020. Matt is a Seattle Planning Commissioner and Co-Chair of the Housing and Neighborhoods Committee. In 2017, he co-founded MOAR (More Options for Accessory Residences), a grassroots organization that helped pass Seattle’s landmark ADU reform. Seattle Magazine named Matt one of the 35 Most Influential People in 2019.

 

Mitch Smith AIA – (Director, Development) 2023 – 2026

An influential, organizational strategist, Mitch Smith knows how to push boundaries and help people achieve new heights of success. As one of the first 20 employees to join MG2, Mitch quickly rose from Project Manager to CEO and Chairman of the Board by expanding the firm’s approach to the practice of architecture. Mitch helps people build meaningful connections between their capabilities and an organization’s goals. This ability, along with his unfaltering candor, cultivates a winning culture founded on the right people, strategies, and client commitment. When he isn’t shaping the voice of MG2, you can find Mitch on his motorcycle, exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, and traveling with his family.

 

Laura Ovsak RA, AIA, NCARB, LEED Green Assoc – (Director, Pro-Practice) 2023 – 2026

Laura is an Architect and a Project Manager at GLY Construction with 11 years of combined experience in Design and Construction Management. Her multilingual and cultural backgrounds have helped ground her beliefs in connecting people and the importance of staying true to your values. An East Coast transplant, Laura aims to bridge the gap between what it means to be a maker of space and a builder.

 

 

 

Kara Weaver, ASLA, PLA, LEED AP BD+C – (Affiliate Director, Pro-Practice) 2023 – 2026

Kara has over ten years of experience designing and documenting public projects ranging from conceptual and interpretive master plans to precise detailing and tight grading over structure. She shines on projects that pose complex challenges, requires intensive coordination between disciplines, and provide opportunities for innovative and elegant problem-solving. Her design approach is grounded in her academic studies in anthropology, archeology, and textiles; a background that focuses  her exploration of the layers of meaning inherent in every place and their expression in the design of the physical world.

 

 

Dylan Glosecki AIA, LEED AP B+C – (Director, Public Policy) 2023 – 2026

Dylan is an architect and urban designer focused on molding the built environment into inspirational, pedestrian-centered spaces in sync with nature’s systems. He has 17 years of experience designing urban multifamily housing of all scales, from 50-story high-rises to 3-story apartments, along with transit and urban design work in Seattle and Vancouver, BC. Dylan practices urban design and architecture at VIAPerkins Eastman and co-chairs the AIA Seattle Urban Design Forum, where he studies urban policy as a means to drive sustainable regional growth patterns. Dylan served as vice chair of the Swedish Cherry Hill Hospital Master Plan Citizens Advisory Committee and has participated on various AIA Seattle committees over the past 8 years, including the Housing Taskforce, Public Policy Board, and the Comp Plan Workgroup.

His recent passion project has been mapping Seattle’s neighborhood centers that exist outside of the city’s Urban Villages and Centers as a means of establishing a baseline understanding of Seattle’s obscure network of smaller-scale neighborhoods for use in advocacy efforts during the current Seattle Comprehensive Plan update. He has a BA in Architecture from Clemson and an M.Arch degree from the University of Washington and is LEED AP BD+C certified.

Posted in For the Profession

Advocacy Update – May 2023

Seattle City Council Passes Tree Ordinance

Latest Housing Taskforce advocacy efforts: We are thrilled to announce that the Seattle City Council has passed the long-awaited tree ordinance, marking a significant milestone in our mission to strike a balance between housing needs and the preservation of our beloved trees.

The passage of this ordinance, with a 6-1 vote in favor, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our members and supporters. Throughout the process, we have been actively engaged in shaping this legislation to ensure it addresses both the urgent need for housing and the crucial importance of protecting our tree canopy.

While we acknowledge that the tree ordinance is not without its imperfections, it represents a substantial step forward in safeguarding our city’s green spaces. Our goal has always been to find a balanced approach that allows for sustainable development while preserving our natural environment.

This comprehensive ordinance will regulate and protect tens of thousands more trees, while also introducing new requirements for replacing those that are cut down. By doing so, we are creating a framework that encourages responsible development practices and ensures the long-term health of our neighborhoods.

We are immensely proud of our members’ engagement throughout this process. Your participation in public comment sessions and your valuable insights have played a pivotal role in achieving this milestone. Together, we are making a tangible difference in shaping a sustainable and livable future for our city.

AIA Seattle Comp Plan Work Group

The Comprehensive Plan update for Seattle is a critical milestone in shaping the city’s future growth and addressing key questions around equitable opportunity, neighborhood design, and sustainability. The AIA Seattle Comp Plan Work Group has been actively collaborating to contribute their skills and experiences to inform the development of the Comprehensive Plan. As part of this important work, UDF will be hosting a charette to support the Comp Plan Work Group in activating member engagement.

When: July 13th 4:00-6:15 PM
Where: Center for Architecture and Design, 1010 Western Ave
More information to follow.

HDC Housing Levy Rally

Join HDC for a rally in support of the Seattle Housing Levy, followed by the final public hearing held by the Seattle City Council Select Committee on the 2023 Housing Levy. May 31st – Seattle City Hall:
3:30pm – Rally for the Seattle Housing Levy
4:00pm – Press conference
4:30pm – Public hearing

State Level

In the final Capital Budget agreement, the proposed funding of $250,000 to establish a workgroup to study the transition to a six-year code cycle was vetoed by Governor Inslee. This decision aligns with our state-level advocacy against extending the code cycle and represents a significant win. This veto preserved the existing three-year code cycle, ensuring the continued application of cutting-edge technologies for safety, health, and efficiency in new construction.

Extending the time between code updates would have had far-reaching consequences, impacting our ability to apply the latest and best practices in construction. It could have also jeopardized the Legislature’s mandate to reduce energy use by 70% by 2031, a critical goal for our state’s sustainability efforts. By maintaining the three-year code cycle, we ensure that necessary updates can be implemented efficiently, promoting energy efficiency and meeting our environmental targets.

Building Code Delays

The State Building Code Council (SBCC) in Washington has voted to delay the effective date of the 2021 building codes by 120 days. The new effective date will be October 29, 2023, instead of July 1, 2023. This delay provides stakeholders with additional time to prepare for the implementation of the updated codes. Additionally, the SBCC has directed its staff to form Technical Advisory Groups to consider proposals for modifying sections of the commercial and residential energy codes. These modifications aim to address legal uncertainties following the recent court decision in California Restaurant Association v. City of Berkeley. The SBCC staff will compile these proposals for the Council’s future consideration. Stay tuned for further updates as the process unfolds.

We’d love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Samantha Morrow
Senior Manager of Policy & Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-957-1926 | samantham@aiaseattle.org

Posted in Advocacy

Call for Individual Award Nominations

call for individual nominations

Now is the time to reflect on individuals that have inspired you in your practice, that have made a tremendous impact on our communities, and have uplifted the values of a just and equitable world. We encourage you to nominate a peer or yourself for any of the awards below:

AIA SEATTLE INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

AIA Seattle has a long tradition of recognizing individuals and organizations for their outstanding achievements in support of the profession of architecture and the AIA.

To be included in the 2023 awards cycle, please submit your nominations no later than Friday, July 21, 2023. Nominations received after this date will not be included. The AIA Seattle Fellows and Honors Committee begins their review of awards nominations in July and will follow-up with next steps for selected candidates in August.

Individual Awardees will be honored at AIA Seattle’s annual Parti celebration in January 2024. Stay tuned in the coming months for a save-the-date!

NATIONAL HONORS
AIA National hosts its own array of honors and awards for members. More information on which awards are currently open for submission can be found here – and award criteria, schedules, deadlines, and how to nominate can be found here.
Posted in Fellows and Honors

Advocacy Update – April 2023

STATE NEWS

2023 Legislative Session

We have reached the final weeks of the 105-day state legislative session. Tuesday, April 4, was the opposite house fiscal committee cut-off, where all bills that passed the House needed to be out of their Senate fiscal committee, and all bills that passed the Senate needed to be out of their House fiscal committee to remain alive. The legislation that advanced currently sits in the Rules Committee of the respective chamber, where members will select which bills to pull to the floor for a vote.  All bills must fully pass out of their opposite chamber by April 12th to have the opportunity to move forward this year. As a reminder, all bills deemed “necessary to implement the budget” are not subject to these cut-offs. They remain in play through the last day of the session, April 23. Many of our priority bills made it through and are still in play, including middle housing, climate updates to the GMA, and clean energy siting.

March Revenue Forecast

On March 20, the state’s Economic and Revenue Forecast Council released its most recent revenue forecast, which the final state budgets will be based on. The forecast showed that over the next two years, the state is likely to bring in less revenue than predicted in November. In fact, the forecast of funds is $483 million less than expected for the 2023-25 biennium and $541 million less for the 2025-27 biennium. This is attributed to a decline in residential construction, slower growth in personal income, and high inflation. The March forecast is used as a guide for budget writers as they finish crafting their respective budget proposals for the upcoming biennium. We expect this forecast to have an impact on state spending.

Budgets
Operating:

The Senate Ways and Means Committee Operating Budget proposal introduced by Chair Christine Rolfes passed on a bipartisan 40-9 vote. The $69.2 billion, two-year budget increases funding for vital state services, including targeted support for behavioral health, public schools, housing, and homelessness, and a historic investment to address the climate crisis. The two-year operating budget adds roughly $5 billion in new spending and does not rely on any new general taxes or fees. It leaves more than $3 billion in total reserves to guard against an economic slowdown.

The House budget introduced by House Appropriations Committee Chair Timm Ormsby appropriates $69.5 billion for the 2023-25 biennium. Also referred to as “Resilient Washington”, the proposal is viewed by House Democrats as both responsible and sustainable. It maintains critical investments made over the last few years and increases support for K-12 education, workforce development, and poverty reduction. It also prioritizes maintaining funding and programs expanded during the pandemic to protect the most vulnerable Washingtonians.

Notably, the budget makes significant investments in climate and natural resource priorities through Climate Commitment Act spending:
• $316 million in Climate Commitment Act investments
• $45 million for forest health and wildfire protection

• $25 million for biodiversity protection

Capital:

The House Democrats proposed capital budget would fund a record-breaking $8.3 billion in construction projects throughout the state, including $704 million dedicated to affordable housing and home upgrades as well as $318 million for clean energy and climate projects.

The Senate Democrats’ $7.9 billion proposed capital budget, which passed out of the Senate with unanimous support, makes historic investments in affordable housing, behavioral health, environmental protection, school construction, and public safety. Notable investments include $400 million for the Housing Trust Fund, part of a total of $625 million for housing investments, and $100 million for school construction in small rural and tribal districts.

Transportation:

House Transportation Committee Chair Jake Fey released his proposal for the second supplemental transportation budget for the 2021-23 biennium, which would spend $10.3 billion, and the new transportation budget for the 2023-25 fiscal biennium, which would spend $13.6 billion. This budget puts significant funding toward eliminating major highway project delays, reducing carbon emissions as part of the Climate Commitment Act, improving traffic safety, and investing in our state ferry system.

Senate Transportation Committee Chair Marko Liias released his proposal for the second supplemental transportation budget for the 2021-23 biennium, which would spend $10.6 billion, and the new transportation budget for the 2023-25 fiscal biennium, which would spend $12.9 billion. Much like the proposal in the House, the Senate proposal focuses on traffic safety, workforce expansion in the state patrol and ferry system, electrification, transit, and other green investments and keeps work on schedule for transportation projects big and small throughout Washington.

Read more about this month’s Advocacy Updates here.

For questions about any of these bills or other legislation under consideration, contact Samantha Morrow.

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

Advocacy Update – February 2023

March 2023 Advocacy Update

STATE NEWS

State Legislative Session Update
Washington’s State Legislature is back in person and moving through the long 105 day session at an effective pace. This year there have been well over 1,500 bills introduced so far. While the legislation in Olympia covers a wide variety of issues, the bills this year seem to be heavily focused on a few key priorities: addressing the housing shortage, creating the biennial budget, criminal justice reform, nurse staffing, and climate change.

Housing
Housing supply and affordability remains a top priority. As we approach the end of week 8, a number of bills pertaining to the creation of housing in the form of ADUs and use of existing buildings have been the first to be voted off the Floor. These bills have seen broad bipartisan support, signaling a legislative body united in addressing the housing crisis in our state.

Session Milestones
The legislative calendar has passed its first two cut-off deadlines: bills that failed to pass out of their policy committees by Feb. 17 are dead for the year, as are bills that did not pass out of their fiscal committees by Feb. 24. At this time all bills must be in one of three places:

  • In the house of origin Rules Committee, which determines which bills make it to the house of origin floor for a vote;
  • On the schedule for a floor vote in the house of origin; or
  • In the second house, having passed out of the house of origin.

Practice
The release of the revenue forecast is expected in March. Once made public, the House and Senate will release their respective Capital, Operating, and Transportation budget proposals for the 2023-25 biennium. This year, the House is expected to release their budget first, with the Senate following soon after. Once both chambers release their proposed budgets, robust negotiations will begin and continue for many weeks. As it stands, the biggest uncertainty as it relates to the state budget is the new capital gains tax currently being collected by the state. This tax is expected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars to pay for things such as early learning and childcare. Currently, the capital gains tax is being challenged in the state Supreme Court. If the Supreme Court strikes down the tax, it will result in a substantial hole in the budget.

Read the entire Advocacy Update here.

For questions about any of these bills or other legislation under consideration, contact Samantha Morrow.

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

2023 Fellowship Announcement

Bill LaPatra FAIA, LEED AP, is a design partner at Mithun with 40 years of experience leading higher education, civic, commercial, and corporate workplace projects. His diverse body of work includes the mixed-use Weyerhaeuser Headquarters in Seattle’s Pioneer Square; the Princeton University Meadows Graduate Student Housing, which is among the largest Passive House projects in the country; and the award-winning and LEED Platinum-certified UC Irvine Mesa Court Towers living-learning community.

In particular, Bill is known for advancing the design of student life facilities nationally through holistic support for students’ academic and social development, deep green building performance, and championship of design excellence within alternative delivery models (including design-build and P3 partnerships). He is a regular conference presenter, joining with housing professionals, contractors, engineers, and developers to share lessons learned and exemplary models for design-forward collaboration within alternative delivery.

Join us in congratulating Bill!

Posted in Fellows and Honors

Register Now for Our Upcoming Code Reload Seminars

Join us for four upcoming sessions to learn from Code experts. 

Session 1 | Code Reload | 2021 Building Code Updates
March 22-23, 2023 // ONLINE // 12:00PM – 2:00PM PT on both days // Class Credit: 4 LU/HSW

Session 2 | Code Reload | Elevator Best Practices
May 17, 2023 // ONLINE // 12:00PM – 2:00PM PT// Class Credit:  2 LU/HSW

Session 3 | Code Reload | Beyond Single Family
September 19-20, 2023 // ONLINE // 12:00PM – 2:00PM PT on both days //Class Credit: 4 LU/HSW

Session 4 | Code Reload | Code 101 & Workshop
November 13, 2023 // IN PERSON //Puget Sound Energy (355 110th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004) // 9:00AM – 1:00PM PT //Class Credit: 4 LU/HSW

*Stay tuned for additional information about these exciting programs! Details are provided approximately 6-8 weeks before the program date(s). All session dates and times subject to change.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2023 CODE SERIES SPONSORS

Andersen Construction Company of Washington | Code Unlimited | Holmes | Puget Sound Energy

CODE COMMITTEE

Special thanks to the Code Committee for planning this series of sessions!

COMMITTEE CHAIRS:

Skye Bredberg, AIA

Leonard Ruff, AIA

Program, Registration or Credit Questions?
Contact Andrea Aguilera, Senior Programs Coordinator at AIA Seattle

Sponsorship Questions?
Contact Melissa K. Neher, Executive Director at AIA Seattle

Posted in Uncategorized

2023 Call for Nominations AIA Seattle Board + College of Fellows

Board Nominations

Would you or someone you know make a great AIA Seattle Board Member? To learn more about board service, see the Board Role Description. To apply, please fill out this form by February 8!

Student or Emerging Professional Role

AIA Seattle’s nominating committee is also inviting applications for an emerging professional or student as a non-voting participant on the AIA Seattle board. This is a paid position to bring diverse perspectives into the Board leadership space. For more information, see the Emerging Professional Role Description. A statement of interest and resume should be sent to Melissa K. Neher by February 8!

Nominations for College of Fellows

Fellowship is one of the highest national honors the AIA can bestow upon a member. Register for our online program The Path to Fellowship to learn more about the College of Fellows eligibility and submittal process. To nominate yourself, or a peer for Fellowship, please fill out this form by March 17!

 

Questions? Please reach out to Anthony Collins, Senior Coordinator of Member Engagement for support.

Posted in Fellows and Honors, Home Page

2023 Programming

As we look ahead to 2023, we are embracing three themes developed by our Board of Directors which inform our annual plan: Community, Connection, and Care. These themes are threaded throughout the year ahead of us in programming, committees, advocacy, and engagement opportunities. The AIA Seattle team is excited to be bringing you a jammed-packed year of programs and events. We look forward to your learning and celebrating with you!

2023 PROGRAMMING

Stay tuned for additional information about these exciting programs! Details are announced approximately 6-8 weeks before the program date(s).

LOOKING FOR MORE?

We encourage members to take advantage of quality online learning programs through AIA Seattle’s partnership with aecKnowledge, AIAU, and other AIA Components’ programming. Check out last year’s Online Continuing Education Opportunities, browse some of our past Online Education Programs, or visit AIA National’s Course Catalog.
Posted in Committees, For the Profession

2022 Year in Review

Dear AIA Seattle Community,

As we close the calendar on 2022, we have so much to celebrate. In the past year, our community has adapted to a shifting work environment and embraced many of the silver linings and lessons of the past few years. Our community came together in 2022 in person and online with increased engagement and excitement.

We saw robust participation in online learning through Climate Summit and Code Series, as members and partners embraced the ability to tune in by zoom. In-person at the Honor Awards, nearly twice as many of us came together from the past year to celebrate projects which exemplify the future of the profession, and the celebration continued with individual achievement through Parti where we recognized 9 outstanding individuals and our community of newly licensed architects. Our members brought forward solutions to problems in our ten-county area by advocating for the vibrant, livable, and accessible communities we value.

As we look ahead to 2023, we are embracing three themes developed by our Board of Directors which inform our annual plan: Community, Connection, and Care. In our extended community of designers, architects, planners, and allied professionals, we have come to a consensus that we value each other’s human experience, and that we must aspire to further the profession while at the same time taking care of each other and our community. These themes are threaded throughout the year ahead of us in programming, committees, advocacy, and engagement opportunities.

We are welcoming new members, including on AIA Seattle’s staff. The mighty team in place in 2022 has demonstrated flexibility and resilience, and above all else, teamwork. We are all excited to welcome new team members whom you’ll be meeting in the months ahead.

Thank you for being a part of the AIA Seattle Community! Happy New Year, and I look forward to welcoming in 2023 focused on Community, Connection, and Care!

Melissa Neher Executive Director Headshot

Melissa K. Neher
Executive Director, AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival

A Look Back – 2022 Events and Programs

 

Our member committees created hundreds of hours of Continuing Education and other programming, serving our 2800+ members. Highlights include:

Our staff worked with task force volunteers and members to produce 7 Major Education Programs:

AIA Seattle’s Honor Awards recognized 15 exemplary projects from all typologies and scales, from educational facilities to residential projects.

We celebrated 9 exceptional individuals + 1 organization at this year’s PARTI.

Our Public Policy Board has continued its incredibly dedicated efforts in advocacy and public policy, utilizing our members’ expertise to address the critical issues around housing, Design Review, and Seattle’s Comprehensive Plan.

Exhibit at the Center and online – Diversity Roundtable developed this traveling display as an opportunity for underrepresented architects to showcase their work, specifically highlighting the experience and impact community involvement has on the architect of color, the design of the building, and the community in which the building resides.

In partnership with the Seattle Design Festival (SDF), we convened important conversations about how design can bring community back together, creating and strengthening the connections that can lead us to a more equitable future. The 2022 SDF saw a return of 10,800+ attendees! Check out the full Year in Review.

Thanks to all who played a role in the above! Stay tuned for 2023’s lineup of educational programming and events!

Looking Forward to 2023

We are excited to announce two updates on staff in 2023! Anthony Collins, our current Membership & Development Coordinator has been promoted to a new role – and will be stepping into the position of Sr. Coordinator of Membership Engagement in the new year. Anthony will be the primary liaison for Member Committees and is excited for his new role engaging with members more directly.

We are also looking forward to welcoming Samantha Morrow to our team in January in the Senior Manager of Policy and Advocacy role for both AIA Seattle + AIA Washington Council. Samantha is a public policy professional with substantial experience in policy development and policy coordination for elected officials – and a welcomed addition to the team. Stay tuned for more about Samantha and a return to Advocacy updates in 2023 as she settles into the role.

Join us in congratulating Anthony – and Welcoming Samantha in 2023!

Best wishes for your holiday season and we look forward to seeing you all again in 2023!

Note on Holiday Hours: AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival will be closed December 24, 2022, through January 2, 2023, for Winter Break.

Posted in For the Profession, Home Page

2022 Online Continuing Education Opportunities

There’s still time to squeeze in those final CEUs with these online learning opportunities from 2022! We encourage members to take advantage of quality on-demand online learning programs through AIA Seattle’s partnership with aecKnowledge, AIAU, and other AIA Components’ programming.

AECKNOWLEDGE

AIA Seattle’s 2022 (Virtual) Climate Summit, Practicing Equity & Advocacy in Rapid Decarbonization, is available online through aecKnowledge for up to 7.5 LU/HSW! This 4-part program examines how to remove barriers in expediting decarbonization while supporting equitable, resilient, and healthy communities. Dive in and discover expansive opportunities to make actionable differences in policy and practice.

Earn up to 7.5 LU/HSW and SAVE OVER 20% when you purchase the 4-part series. Both full program and single-session options are available.

AIA Seattle’s 2022 Housing Design Forum, Precedents & Possibilities Transforming Residential Practice, is also available online through aecKnowledge for up to 7.25 LU/HSW! This 4-part program highlights some of the most innovative and inspiring work in the Pacific Northwest spanning the past, present, and future of residential practice. Addressing constraints and opportunities at a range of residential scales, sessions explore designing for people and place; innovative modes of practice and collaboration; sustainable and equitable decision-making; and new materials and technologies.

Earn up to 7.25 LU/HSW and SAVE OVER 20% when you purchase the 6-part series. Both full program and single-session options are available.

Each continuing education course is licensed for viewing to a single individual. For Discounted Group Rates, please email Michael@aecKnowledge.com or call 415.383.7011.

AIAU

In addition, AIAU offers 150+ online courses for every specialty, with knowledge partners ensuring timely and relevant LUs at your fingertips. AIAU’s 300+ instructors are from leading firms, and they’ll immerse you in on-demand topics that will boost your skills and portfolio.

Get started today >>>

LOOKING FOR MORE?

Check out some of our past Online Education Programs, visit AIA National’s Course Catalog, or browse programming from other AIA Chapters.
Posted in Uncategorized

AIA SEATTLE ANNOUNCES 2022 HONOREES

Collage of 2022 Awardees

Honorees are nominated by their peers and selected by the Fellows & Honors committee each spring. AIA Seattle is delighted to recognize these recipients for their exceptional contributions to the profession and our community.

Please join us in congratulating the 2022 Honorees! We will celebrate their achievements at the 2022 AIA Seattle Parti on Monday, December 12 at The Forum at Town Hall.

 

 

 

2022 HONOREES


2022 AIA COLLEGE OF FELLOWS

Kjell Anderson FAIA, LEED Fellow

AIA Fellows are recognized with the AIA’s highest membership honor for their exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society. The prestige of FAIA after your name is unparalleled and the judging is rigorous.  Only 3 percent of the AIA members have this distinction.

AIA SEATTLE GOLD MEDAL

Richard E. Mohler FAIA

The AIA Seattle Gold Medal, the highest award that AIA Seattle can bestow on one of its members, recognizes distinguished lifetime achievement in architecture, including design and professional practice and service to the profession, the community, education and the arts.

AIA SEATTLE COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

Casey Riske AIA

AIA Seattle annually recognizes an individual or group for achievement of significant community service and for exemplifying the application of architectural skills, values, and dedication to the advancement of community goals.

AIA SEATTLE YOUNG ARCHITECT AWARD

The AIA Seattle Young Architect Award This award is given to individuals licensed fewer than 10 years who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in an early stage of their architectural career. A young architect may be recognized for contributions to design excellence, sustainable design, community engagement, the practice of architecture, technological innovation or education.

Crystal Day AIA

Mona Zellers AIA

HONORARY AIA SEATTLE MEMBERSHIP

AIA Seattle annually recognizes individuals who are not otherwise eligible for AIA membership who have contributed notably to AIA Seattle’s mission and goals.

Allison Mills

Amarpreet Sethi

Cory Hitzemann

Stacy Smedley

Cory Hitzemann from Coughlin Porter Lundeen headshot

ALLIED ORGANIZATION AWARD

Africatown Community Land Trust

AIA Seattle annually recognizes an organization which has notably contributed to AIA Seattle’s mission and goals.

Posted in Fellows and Honors

2022 Honor Award Winners

Collage of Honor Award 2022 Winners

SEATTLE, November 8, 2022 – Last night, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Seattle hosted the 72nd annual Honor Awards for Washington Architecture to celebrate excellence in design.

The distinguished jury included Billie Faircloth FAIA, LEED AP BD+C (KieranTimberlake), Ghazal Khezri (LOHA), and Kimberly Garza ASLA, PLA LEED AP (Atlas Lab), with Ken Tadashi Oshima (UW College of Built Environments) as moderator.

From 100 submissions, the jury chose 15 award winners from three categories – Built, Conceptual, and Research & Innovation. This was the fifth year of the Research & Innovation category, recognizing strides in research and innovation coming out of our region, elevating our communities’ awareness of advancement in architectural practice. This was the seventh year of the Energy in Design Award to commend projects that have made quantifiably significant strides in energy reduction while also maintaining the highest qualitative design caliber.

Across the spectrum of project types, the jury acknowledged the strong design culture represented in our region and were so impressed with the “high level of design excellence in projects that delight, inspire and enrich their communities all while having a positive impact on the environment.”

In addition to the main juried awards, it was the fifth year of the Young Voices Selection (YVS), a program with the aim to engage and elevate the voices of young designers through direct participation and representation in AIA Seattle’s Honor Awards for Washington Architecture. The three YVS panelists, Alyssa Mitchell Assoc. AIA, NOMA (Weber Thompson), Mariel Dougoud (Perkins&Will), and Nikki Sugihara Assoc. AIA (Wittman Estes), selected 1 Built project as the Young Voices Selection award winner.

Congratulations to all the winners, and thank you to our esteemed jury, moderator, and Honor Awards Committee!

Visit the 2022 Honor Awards Digital Publication and the Online Gallery to learn more about the projects, as well as project team and collaborator information. Missed the live show? You can catch the replay here!

AWARD OF HONOR

Mini Mart City Park (MMCP) by GO’C is a new arts-oriented community center in Georgetown. The project, which sits directly across from Boeing Field, has transformed a former gas station site into a Seattle hub for art events and community gatherings. The jury commended the team for creating an architecture that amplifies community and ecological agency.

 

 

Phinney Mini by Best Practice Architecture is a remodel and micro-addition to an existing 1907 16-and-a-half-foot-wide two-story farmhouse. This project shows how a building can be adapted to new times, prioritizing quality over quantity – more by doing less – something that the jury greatly appreciated.

 

 

 

The Bush School New Upper School by Mithun is a building inserts itself into a tight urban campus site adjacent to the school’s original facility, historic Gracemont Hall. This symbiotic connection creates a unique narrative between generations of learning spaces built a century apart that are woven into a common educational alignment. Most importantly for the jury, it defines a new visible edge of the campus to inspire broader change in the community.

 

 

ENERGY IN DESIGN AWARD

The Bush School New Upper School by Mithun was also the recipient of the Energy in Design Award. It is a modest-scale building that features a wide array of indoor and connected outdoor learning and social spaces that amplify the Bush School curriculum while honoring site ecology and campus context. The jury also greatly appreciated the use of extensive passive strategies to reduce the load on renewable energy sources.

AWARD OF MERIT

A Workplace That Resonates by NBBJ (Research & Innovation)
Ballard Food Bank by Graham Baba Architects
The Hive by Integrus Architecture
Heartwood Mass Timber/Steel Hybrid Workforce Housing by atelierjones (Research & Innovation)
ReHOME: Resilience + Regeneration by Coates Design (Research & Innovation)
The Roost by Neiman Taber Architects

HONORABLE MENTION

Alma Clark Glass Hall by Mahlum Architects
Byrd Barr Place by SHKS Architects
Juanita Beach Park Bathhouse by EHDD Architecture

YOUNG VOICES SELECTION

Living Watershed by Weber Thompson

To view all 100 submissions to the 2022 Honor Awards, visit the:

Click here for online gallery

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Honor Awards

2022 Honor Awards

Click here for online gallery

 

LIVE EVENT ON NOVEMBER 7 AT TOWN HALL SEATTLE

The Honor Awards for Washington Architecture is AIA Seattle’s annual marquee program, drawing hundreds of attendees to a lecture-style event of unique rigor and breadth. This nationally-recognized program provides an important opportunity for the design community to share and celebrate its achievements, both among practitioners and with the community at-large.

Click here for more info

THE JURY PROCESS

Every year, jurors praise submissions that reveal the story behind the marketing images. What concepts and considerations drove the design? How did the design team creatively address the project parameters? Did the true design intent materialize in the project? What is the project’s benefit or impact? Ultimately, what makes this an award winning project? Submitters were encouraged to use the project narrative, captions, and inclusion of process work as opportunities to tell a design story.

In addition to the jury’s own criteria, the AIA Seattle community has identified four considerations for the submission review process: Inspiration, Problem-Solving, Environmental Sensitivity, Social Impact. The integration of the Common App into the submission process also raises awareness of the Framework for Design Excellence.

Initial Jury Deliberations will take place virtually this year before the jury joins us in Seattle November 5-7.

  • Starting October 6, each juror individually receives and reviews all projects submitted before group deliberations.
  • On Friday, October 14, the jury will meet online, agree on criteria, and together determine a shortlist of projects in consideration for award. From this shortlist, the jury will determine which BUILT projects they would like to visit in Seattle.
    • An Honor Awards Committee member will coordinate site visits leading up to jury arrival. Site Visit Contacts must be authorized to organize a hosted site visit on Sunday, November 6. SITE VISITS ARE ANONYMOUS. The project design team shall not be present.
  • On Sunday, November 6, following site visits, the jury will participate in final deliberations and select this year’s award recipients for all categories.
  • On Monday, November 7, the jury will discuss and present their official award selections on-stage at the Live Event at Town Hall Seattle.

Awards are the final determination of the jury.

MEET THE JURY

Billie Faircloth FAIA, LEED AP BD+C | KieranTimberlake | Philadelphia, PA
Billie Faircloth guides firm-wide, project-based research to achieve ambitious outcomes for people and the environment while constructing award-winning, high performing buildings. As the firm’s Research Director, she oversees a transdisciplinary group of professionals who collaborate with architects to investigate opportunities for sustainability and innovation. In addition to working directly on architectural projects, Billie leads the development of a diverse portfolio of proactive, award-winning research with an emphasis on novel software and hardware applications for architects. These tools advance the practitioner’s understanding of the built environment, such as Tally®, a life cycle assessment app that calculates embodied carbon and other environmental impacts of building materials. Billie is presently a member of the AIA COTE Advisory Group. She is the 2017 recipient of Architectural Record’s Women in Architecture Innovator Award and the author of numerous peer-reviewed articles and the book Plastics Now: On Architecture’s Relationship to a Continuously Emerging Material.
Ghazal Khezri | LOHA | Los Angeles, CA
Since joining LOHA in 2015, Ghazal has played a substantial role as a Director and project Lead for a number of projects, most notably 3434 Wesley, Esri Campus Center and Sandi Simon Center for Dance. Prior to joining LOHA, she worked on number of  international projects as a designer with award-winning architecture firms. Her contributions span a variety of project types including affordable housing and residential projects to museums, and educational. She sees architecture as a way to strengthen communities and give character to neighborhoods, as well as a vehicle for expressing an organization’s culture while establishing new cultures. Ghazal holds Architectural Design and Architectural Engineering bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and has served as a guest Juror at Angewandte, University of Innsbruck, Tehran University and University of Southern California. She is a licensed architect in California.
Kimberly Garza ASLA, PLA, LEED AP | Atlas Lab | Sacramento, CA
Kimberly Garza is Founder and Principal of ATLAS Lab Inc, a woman- and minority-owned, mission-driven landscape architecture, community development, and public art studio based in Sacramento, California. She is a landscape architect, artist, and educator with 15 years of experience working with private and public developments across the country. Her work has been internationally recognized, published, and exhibited, including juried selection for the Market Street Prototyping Festival, International Garden Festival in Quebec, Canada and winning proposal for the Sacramento Capitol Mall design competition. She was named 40 Under 40 Urban Innovator by NextCity.org. and 40 Under 40 Honoree by the Sacramento Business Journal. Kimberly frequently serves on national design and academic juries, and lectures on placemaking and socially conscious design. She holds degrees in landscape architecture from Harvard University and UC Berkeley.
Moderator: Ken Tadashi Oshima | University of Washington | Seattle, WA
Ken Tadashi Oshima is Professor at the University of Washington, Seattle, where he teaches trans-national architectural history, theory and design. He has also been a visiting professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and UCLA. He is a Fellow of the Society of Architectural Historians for lifetime achievement and served as President of the Society of Architectural Historians from 2016-18. Dr. Oshima’s publications include Kiyonori Kikutake: Between Land and Sea, International Architecture in Interwar Japan: Constructing Kokusai Kenchiku and Arata Isozaki. He curated “GLOBAL ENDS: towards the beginning” (Gallery MA, 2011), “SANAA: Beyond Borders”” (Henry Art Gallery 2007-8) and was a co-curator of “Frank Lloyd Wright at 150: Unpacking the Archive” (Museum of Modern Art, NY, 2017). He was an editor and contributor to Architecture + Urbanism for more than ten years, co-authoring the two-volume special issue, Visions of the Real: Modern Houses in the 20th Century (2000).

YOUNG VOICES SELECTION

Initiated in 2018, the Young Voices Selection (YVS) program aims to elevate and engage the voices of young designers through direct participation and representation in AIA Seattle’s Honor Awards for Washington Architecture. Three young designers, nominated by firm leaders and selected by the Honor Awards Committee, will be given the opportunity to review, deliberate, and select ONE Built project submission. This chosen project, the “Young Voices Selection,” will be recognized at the live event in November and selected by this year’s Young Voices…

  • Alyssa Mitchell Assoc. AIA, NOMA | Weber Thompson 
  • Mariel Dougoud | Perkins&Will 
  • Nikki Sugihara Assoc. AIA | Wittman Estes 

QUESTIONS?

Questions about Submitting? Contact AIA Seattle Programs Manger, Zoe Guckenheimer.

Questions about attending the Live Event? Contact AIA Seattle Programs Coordinator, Andrea Aguilera.

Sponsorship Questions? Contact AIA Seattle Executive Director, Melissa K. Neher.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2022 HONOR AWARDS SPONSORS

 

 

BetterBricks  |  Dovetail  |  Arup  |  Berger Partnership  |  Coughlin Porter Lundeen | Fremont Brewing
FSi Engineers  |  Holmes Structures  |  Inform Interiors  |  Kolbe Gallery Seattle | KPFF Consulting Engineers
Lane Powell  |  Magnusson Klemencic Associates  |  Malsam Tsang Structural Engineering
PCS Structural Solutions  |  Quantum Consulting Engineers  |  Säzän Group  |  Schuchart  |  Schultz Miller
 Swenson Say Fagét  |  GRAY

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Honor Awards

Continued Connection

A message for our valued AIA Seattle Community, 

Summer has finally found us in Seattle, and all around us are signs of increasing community engagement. In our highly hybrid and virtual times, our committees and staff team at AIA Seattle are continuing to explore ways to leverage flexible formats, while eagerly embracing the in-person engagement opportunities we’ve hosted in the past few months. We appreciate the resilience and community care demonstrated by our members who have joined in-person events with respect and support for ever-shifting Covid protocols.

AIA Seattle has delivered Continuing Education and Committee Programs in multiple formats, including:

  • Climate Summit: Practicing Equity and Advocacy in Rapid Decarbonization was delivered virtually and is now available online for continuing education credits.
  • Housing Forum: Precedents & Possibilities Transforming Residential Practice, was our first return to an in-person forum and was recorded for online education credits as well (coming later this summer).
  • Solstice Celebration: Creative Convergence, a collaborative program hosted by AIA Seattle Diversity Roundtable, Seattle Architecture Foundation, and Seattle Design Festival in celebration of the Diversity by Design Exhibit highlighting designers, designers of all genders, LGBTQI + designers, designers with disabilities, immigrant designers and more.

AIA Seattle advocacy activities with a focus on climate and housing persist, with significant engagement with the City of Seattle’s Comprehensive Plan Update.

Engaged members are providing input to the current urban village growth strategy, with a focus on speeding up and reducing barriers to housing production, fostering 15-minute neighborhoods, prioritizing and protecting BIPOC communities, promoting sustainability, and addressing city design.

Looking forward – AIA Seattle is excited to support CONNECTION, the theme of Seattle Design Festival 2022, with an expanded Festival August 20-26 to unleash the design thinker in everyone. The 2022 Festival kicks off with the Lake Union Park Block Party with 40+ Installations & Pop-Up Experiences and also includes Community Spotlights, Virtual Mainstage programming, and a Closing Party.

As we welcome back summer to the Pacific Northwest, we look forward to welcoming you, our valued members and community partners, to future programming and events.

Thank you for your engagement!

Warm Regards,
Melissa K. Neher
Executive Director, AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival
Posted in Uncategorized

2022-23 Board of Directors

Vote today for our 2022-23 slate of new/moving board members

AIA Seattle’s Board Nominating Committee is pleased to present this slate of accomplished members to fill open seats on our Board of Directors or current board members moving to officer positions or different positions beginning September 1, 2022. All AIA and Associate AIA members are eligible to vote. Votes are yes or no for each nominee, and write-in votes are allowed. Voting by at least 10% of the membership is required to validate an election.

Voting will close on July 19, 2022

Click here to vote

Michele Hill, AIA – (President Elect Candidate) 2022 – 2023
Member since: 2006 | Pronouns: She/Her

Michele is an architect and Urban Planner at BuildingWork with 12 years of experience in commercial, institutional, ecclesiastical, and residential architecture. She is currently AIA Seattle Board Secretary. Michele also serves on the Member Advancement Steering Committees, and the JEDI Task Force.

Statement of Interest:

AIA Seattle has placed itself at the forefront of AIA and the architecture field as a leader in responding to climate change and, more recently, in addressing diversity, equity, and inclusion within our profession. The visionary work that has elevated our chapter as a national leader is due to the collaborative efforts of our members, AIA Seattle staff, and the Board of Directors. I look forward to continuing this legacy of leadership as we remain focused on addressing today’s wicked problems. I am particularly excited about the concrete steps we are taking toward becoming a truly inclusive profession, enriched and empowered by the diverse voices we contain and we serve.

Carrie Anderson, AIA, LEED AP, CPHC® – (Secretary Candidate) 2022 – 2023
Member since: 2013 | Pronouns: She/Her

Carrie is an architect at Nest Design/Build and is currently serving on the AIA Seattle Board as a Director of Professional Practice. She has been engaged in custom residential architecture in the Puget Sound Region since 2004, with projects ranging from small remodels and additions to multi-million-dollar new construction.

Statement of Interest:

Through my active participation in AIA Seattle’s Diversity Roundtable committee for the past 6 years, I learned to appreciate the importance of amplifying diverse perspectives within our profession. With my personal investment in this goal, as well as experience as co-chair of the Diversity Roundtable committee, I believe I can be an asset to the AIA Seattle Board of Directors, specifically to Membership Steering Committee. I strongly believe in members shaping the future of our AIA chapter and am excited for the opportunity to serve and channel our members’ input towards that future.

Heather Pogue, AIA – (Treasurer Candidate) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 2008 | Pronouns: She/Her

Heather is a sole practitioner whose firm specializes in the design of custom single-family residences and boutique commercial retail and restaurant projects. Heather has shared that her background running her own practice has taught her the importance of sound budgetary practices, and she looks forward to bringing her perspective to the Executive Committee and Finance Committee.

Statement of Interest:

There are two intentional reasons why I joined AIA. As a member, to be engaged through thoughtful programming and as an architect, to find abundant resources. I was in Austin at the time of my early career and AIA had pulled me in with its zeal to serve the community. They ran the hippest homes tour every year, screened the indie architecture films when they came to town, and engaged the public as much as the architects. Most importantly, they actively listened to what the architects were seeking and used agility to find the answers, and adjusted programming to meet those needs. This kept their position of relevancy to the members they were serving. I found that time to be rewarding and thrilling because I was always looking to AIA Austin for ways to be inspired and ways to have a more successful career.

I became interested in serving on the board in Seattle to provide the same to others what I found early in my Austin career as an emerging architect. I see AIA Seattle as a place to knit that kind of community, mingling architects with the public to spread the audience we reach, and serving the members’ needs with agility and relevancy. I would like to make use of my position on the board to give back to others what I received during those early days of my career, to find ways to provide sources for community, connection, and encouragement to those we serve.

Nicole DeNamur, Hon. AIA (Development) 2022 – 2024
Member since: 2019 | Pronouns: She/Her

Nicole is a sustainability leader who brings her perspective as a lawyer to multiple spaces. Building from her decade of experience in construction and insurance law, she is an affiliate instructor at the University of Washington, and provides additional community learning through her writings and engagements.

Statement of Interest:

I am interested in serving on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors because it presents the opportunity to support an industry and an organization that is positioned to drive real change. I have truly enjoyed co-chairing the Professional Practice Steering Committee, and look forward to applying the skills I learned, and the relationships I built in that role, to a leadership position with the Board.

The design community, and related industries, play a significant and important role in shaping our communities. I believe that diverse perspectives, and collaboration across industries, are some of the keys to solving big challenges like climate change. I want to lend my personal and professional perspective to this role, and the Board’s work. I also know how much representation matters and I would bring my whole self to Board service. As an organization, I believe AIA Seattle should be working on driving deeper and broader equity through the built environment. And while I recognize and appreciate that as an organization the AIA has already prioritized this work, I know that there is a long way to go and a lot of work to be done – I look forward to diving even deeper into this work.

I want to be an active voice in this critical dialogue, even if these conversations are uncomfortable or awkward at times. Equally important, I look forward to actively listening and learning from my peers.

Mark Smedley, AIA (Finance) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 1986 | Pronouns: He/Him

Mark is an Architect at Bassetti Architects, with over 38 years of experience in architecture and urban planning. His work ranges from cultural and institutional projects to a special interest in Senior Living communities and Public Housing neighborhoods. Mark has served on the Finance Committee as a nonboard member for the past year, supporting efforts to increase transparency and improve financial processes.

Statement of Interest:

I am interested in serving on the AIA Seattle Board of Directors as a way to represent the membership from individual practitioners to small, medium, and larger firm members. Having worked in Seattle since 1986 I have seen how this vibrant design community has evolved and responded to emerging issues in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Working with the Finance Committee over the last year, I helped Lisa Richmond and her team in making the transition for the new Executive Director as seamless as possible. From those interactions, I see the possibilities for continuing to address the many needs within our community and will work diligently to meet them.

Becca Book, AIA (Public Policy Candidate) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 2017 | Pronouns: She/Her

Becca believes in using the power of good design to solve ecological and social problems. As an urban designer at Mithun, she applies her design expertise and research and analytical skills to projects promoting coastal resiliency and equitable access to the city.

Statement of Interest:

AIA Seattle has provided me with a venue to explore how local policies shape the built environment, and to advocate for changes that will promote more equitable and sustainable designs. As a member of the board, I would work to help other members understand how policy decisions impact our profession and the daily lives of everyone who lives, works, or plays in our region.  

Our contributions to the design of our community will have long-lasting impacts on the health of residents, the climate, and who is able to access the wealth of opportunities our region has to offer. We have a responsibility not only to design architecture that strengthens our communities, but also to help policymakers and the public visualize how changes in their community could help facilitate a more sustainable future that is accessible to people from all walks of life. I look forward to lending my voice to AIA’s advocacy efforts, and to inviting input from diverse perspectives across industries and identities to better inform how we can work towards realizing our shared values.

Sarah Burk, AIA (Professional Practice) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 2018 | Pronouns: She/Her

Sarah is an architect at Johnston Architects. She grew up in rural communities in Oklahoma and Montana, which shaped her appreciation for design that speaks to residents at every scale and in every place. After spending summers interning in Seattle, Sarah earned her BA in Environmental Design and Master of Architecture at Montana State University in Bozeman and decided to make the Emerald City her new home base.

Statement of Interest:

I’m interested in serving because I believe that advocacy for the profession of architecture and for the architect is what one of the most important roles I can have as an architect. We have a huge responsibility for the future of our built-environment and the impact that has on generations to come. What we decide matters. We are a powerful voice when united – one that has a say on climate change, social equity, sustainability, preservation, infrastructure, and policy. All of these topics are just as prevalent in Seattle as they are nation-wide. I look forward to diving in and learning what we can do in creating effective change in architecture.

Mark Chubb, Assoc. AIA (Affiliate Development Candidate) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 2020 | Pronouns: He/Him

Mark is the Director of Technical Services with Code Unlimited, LLC. He is an experienced emergency management and public safety executive with diverse professional, technical and academic experience in public, private and non-profit organizations.

Statement of Interest:

AIA Seattle is the most active and visible advocate for inclusive design in our region. The chapter’s members are thought leaders in the profession nationally and internationally. In my tenure as an AIA committee member and co-chair, the dedication of chapter members to social justice, environmental justice, sustainability, and resilience have made a powerful impression on me. Beyond the groundbreaking work they do for clients every day, Seattle AIA’s members and committees are actively engaged in efforts to address the affordable housing crisis, create more inclusive spaces for people of every age and ability, and use design to inform just culture and addresses persistent inequities. As an allied professional, I am inspired by these efforts and eager to empower others in the design and construction industry to embrace these efforts alongside AIA Seattle members.

Melissa Falcetti, AIA (Membership + 10 County) 2022 – 2023 Appointment
Member since: 2014 | Pronouns: She/Her

Melissa is a licensed architect, passed the CSI’s Construction Documents Technologist exam, and is a Certified Construction Specifier. She has served as the education chair of the Puget Sound Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute since 2012 and has been an active member of AIA Seattle advisory groups.

Statement of Interest:

As cheesy as it sounds, volunteering for industry organizations has truly enriched not just my career but also my life. We’re in a small and collaborative industry so the more of us that succeed, the better off we all are. I want to help AIA Seattle reach as many of our colleagues as possible to help them flourish and reach heights they didn’t realize were possible. Especially during/after the pandemic, it’s so easy to isolate ourselves from one another, but I’ve found that the true value of this industry is in its personal relationships. One of the most efficient ways to develop those relationships is through an organization – by volunteering and helping one another. I’m excited that AIA Seattle is working to reach out to those in our Chapter who don’t live within King County and bringing them opportunities so we can all thrive regardless of location or access.  

Rushyan Yen, AIA (AIA WA/Public Policy Candidate) 2022 – 2025
Member since: 2017 | Pronouns: She/Her

Rushyan is a sustainability consultant with 9+ years of experience advising clients, conducting research, and driving impact toward equitable, regenerative, and resilient organizations and infrastructure. Deep experience in energy efficiency and decarbonization with particular emphasis on the built environment.

Statement of Interest:

As an architect, my efforts to make the world a better place have often resulted in a design concept or built form. I have come to see however that it is through deep collaboration and meaningful interactions with the design community and local stakeholders that fundamental change is possible. I believe that AIA Seattle is the glue that brings people together and allows this important collaboration to take place.  

After two inspiring and empowering years as a Board Associate on the AIA WA Council, I’m excited to bring my experience to the AIA Seattle Board of Directors and serve as a liaison between the two organizations as well as to the greater design community. Through this collaboration, I know we will be able to address and respond to the challenges that face our community and profession, together.  

Posted in For the Profession, Home Page

2022 YAF/WID Happy Hour Series

White text on blue/teal background. Imperial logo in top-right which reads: AIA Seattle. White text in top-right reads: Presented by Young Architects Forum & Women in Design. Centered text reads: 2022 Happy Hour Series. Below, two clip art pieces of glasses and beer glasses "cheers"-ing. Center-left text reads Looking Forward What is the Future of Seattle Architecture? bottom silhouette of a black Seattle skyline with Mount Rainier in the background.

The AIA Seattle Happy Hour Series is a monthly gathering presented by the Young Architects Forum and Women in Design committees to encourage connections within the Seattle design community. This year’s series will explore the exciting innovations and advancements that will change the future of Architecture in Seattle.

JOIN US EVERY SECOND THURSDAY THROUGH NOVEMBER!

Mark your calendar & click to print the 2022 AIA Seattle Happy Hour Series Poster to pin up at your firm!

2022 SCHEDULE

June 9: DLR Group

July 14th: The Miller Hull Partnership

**August 11: Dykeman, Inc.

September 8: MKA

October 13: Gensler

November: Cushing Terrell

**NOTE: Dykeman is located in Everett.

All happy hours are presented in-person by AIA Seattle’s Women in Design and Young Architects Forum. At this time, all happy hours require proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test in the last 72-hours, to be presented at entry. Proof of vaccination may be in the form of a physical card or image of one, or MyIR record. When not actively eating or drinking, guests are required to remain masked. Acting in accordance with these precautions allows AIA Seattle to continue offering safe, in-person gatherings to as wide of an audience as possible.

All venues feature zero-step entry and an accessible restroom onsite. Please indicate on your registration for each respective happy hour whether you would like to be contacted regarding specific accommodations to fully participate in each program.

Contact Connor Descheemaker, Member Engagement Manager, with any questions or concerns.

Posted in For the Public

2022 Small Firm Series

In this 3-part Small Firm Series, Rena M. Klein and her colleagues at CVG will share fundamental knowledge, strategies, tools, and resources for successful small firm adaptation and transformation. Tailored to the needs and interests of small firm practitioners, these interactive half-day sessions will include compelling presentations, case study features, workshop activities, and ample time for peer-to-peer discussion. Both full series registration and single-session registration are available.

Join us in-person on July 6, and online September 7 and December 7 for AIA Seattle’s highly-interactive 2022 Small Firm Series. Register for the full series to maximize and build upon your learning (12 AIA LU), or register for a single session for a more tailored focus (4 AIA LU each). Space is limited to 60 total registrants per session. 

SESSION DATES + A LA CARTE REGISTRATION

Session 1 | Stabilize Your Small Firm with Strategic Business Planning
July 6, 2022 // IN-PERSON at  MG2 ( 1101 2nd Ave #100, Seattle, WA  98101) // 9:00am-1:00pm PT // Class Credit: 4 LU

  • Rena M. Klein, FAIA | Partner, CVG
  • Lucas Gray, Assoc. AIA |  Senior Management Consultant, CVG

Registration has closed.

Session 2 | Effective Strategies for Advancing Emerging Leaders and Transitioning Ownership 
September 7, 2022 // ONLINE // 9:00am-1:00pm PT // Class Credit: 4 LU

  • Rena M. Klein, FAIA | Partner, CVG
  • Sun Joo Kim | Senior Management Consultant, CVG

Registration has closed.

Session 3 | Operations and Design: New Approaches to Old Ways of Working 
December 7, 2022 //  ONLINE // 9:00am-1:00pm PT // Class Credit: 4 LU

  • Sun Joo Kim | Senior Management Consultant, CVG
  • Erin Murphy AIA |  Senior Management Consultant, CVG

Registration has closed.

All sessions and speakers subject to change. 

FULL SERIES COST

Includes continuing education credit (12 AIA LU) + breakfast and light refreshments for Session 1 in-person. All sessions and speakers subject to change. 

$214 $246 AIA Member
$214 $246 Government + Partners
$122 $140 Associate Member
$354 $407 Non-Member
$30 $34 Student

Registration has closed.

Early Bird Deadline: Tuesday, June 21, 2022. After this time, the price increases 15%. Final Registration Deadline: Tuesday, July 5, 5:00pm PT. 

Reduced rate options are available! Please submit the Continuing Education Scholarship / Reduced Rate Request form via email by Tuesday, June 21, 5:00PM PT. 

SESSION DESCRIPTIONS + LEARNING OBJECTIVES

July 6, 2022 | Stabilize Your Small Firm with Strategic Business Planning (In-Person)

Managing a growing design firm offers a variety of unique challenges and opportunities. An unpredictable business environment and a quickening pace of change requires firm owners to adapt, but how can firm owners proactively prepare for growth in uncertain times? We will demystify the business planning process. Each attendee will develop their own business plan outline in this interactive workshop – so you can leave inspired, organized, and one step ahead of the competition!

  • Explore strategies for business planning within an environment of unpredictability, including case studies & best practices.
  • Understand basic business plan components including the interconnection between
    purpose, finance, marketing, & operations.
  • Learn how to use critical tools and processes for successful firm business planning.
  • Develop the outline for your own firm’s business plan.

September 7, 2022 | Effective Strategies for Advancing Emerging Leaders and Transitioning Ownership (Online)

How do firms succeed in transitioning ownership and leadership? When should firm leaders begin thinking about ownership transition, and what options are available to firm founders approaching retirement? How can successors truly leverage the knowledge and connections of the founder? Planning for leadership transition brings up many questions and few answers; however if a firm leader intends to transfer ownership to the next generation, emerging leaders need mentorship, tools, and skills to succeed. This session will outline structured stages of professional development for emerging leaders as a key component to effective ownership transition.

  • Discover the importance of setting goals and understanding preferred outcomes in planning for
    ownership transition.
  • Understand options for ownership transition pathways depending on timeframe to retirement
    and openness to sharing leadership.
  • Explore best practices for identifying the right person to be a successor and how to create a
    framework for a partnership agreement.
  • Learn how to prepare emerging leadership for a future ownership role through structured stages
    of professional development.

December 7, 2022 | Operations and Design: New Approaches to Old Ways of Working (Online)

Business planning and professional development mean little without proper implementation. How will you structure your team for the greatest results? What bottlenecks are slowing down your design execution? How can adopting new ways of working transform your firm? This session will explore alternative ways of thinking about your day-to-day operations using case studies from other small design firms. Equitable business practice will be discussed as a paradigm-shifting leadership model with a wide lens of understanding.

  • Visualize your firm’s structure and potential for growth using organizational design tools.
  • Hear case studies about other small firms experimenting with alternative organizational design
    and shaking up their operational norms.
  • Learn about different technological resources available that are helping small firms streamline
    operations.
  • Explore different approaches to incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion into small firm
    leadership and team management.

SPECIAL THANKS TO CVG AND OUR SMALL FIRM SERIES SPONSORS:

 

AP Design Professionals | Hargis Engineers, Inc. | Precision Property Measurements

Registration or Credit Questions?
Contact Andrea Aguilera, Programs Coordinator at AIA Seattle

Program Questions?
Contact Zoe Guckenheimer, Programs Manager at AIA Seattle

Sponsorship Questions?
Contact Melissa K. Neher, Executive Director at AIA Seattle

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Uncategorized

Advocacy Update – March 2022

STATE NEWS

State Legislative Session Update
The state legislature adjourned for the year on March 10. Thank to you all of you who supported AIA’s efforts in Olympia. Here is a list of AIA’s highlights from the session (you can read an overview of non-AIA issues here); look for more details from AIA|WA next week.

Climate
Key building electrification bills fell afoul of opposition from the gas utilities, homebuilders, and some unions, including HB 1770 to develop a voluntary residential energy reach code that local governments could opt to use instead of baseline state code and two bills that would have required utilities to begin the transition to electric power and allow public utilities to offer customer incentives for electrification. Bills that passed included SB 5722 to extend some state building performance requirements to smaller commercial and multi-family buildings and HB 1280 to require an analysis of the use of all-electrification systems as part of the pre-design work for large state buildings. The biggest loss was HB 1099, which would have added a climate element to the state’s Growth Management Act requirements. This legislation needed to pass this year to impact the 2024 comp plan updates. It passed both houses and passed the Senate a second time but failed to receive a vote on the House floor to approve the conference committee version of the bill in the final minutes of the session.

AIA|WA opposed legislation that would have required a combination of green roof technology and solar on all commercial and multi-family buildings over 50,000 sq ft because it did not offer flexibility or choice; we expect to see a version of this bill back next year.

Housing
The legislature continues to be good at passing bills related to SEPA and local government taxing mechanisms for affordable housing, but its record is poor at providing state mandates on local zoning to increase housing capacity. AIA-supported legislation that passed included SB 5818 to limit SEPA and GMA appeals on affordable housing projects and HB 1643 to provide for a real estate excise tax (REET) exemption for selling property to nonprofits and public housing authorities to use for affordable housing. Legislation that did not pass included HB 1660 to prohibit restrictions related to ADUs and, most notably, HB 1782 on missing middle housing, which started out by requiring fourplexes to sixplexes in areas traditionally dedicated to single-family detached housing (depending on city size and proximity to frequent transit). HB 1882 to create a housing benefit district pilot program to plan and fund land acquisition for affordable housing near major transit stops also failed to pass.

Practice
AIA opposed HB 2049 to eliminate local plan review for most plans stamped by an architect or engineer; the bill did not pass but the concept drew a number of Republican and Democratic co-sponsors in the belief that it would speed up housing production. AIA will be meeting with these legislators over the summer to talk about the importance of plan review and to offer alternative ideas on how the state could support expediting the permitting process (if you have ideas on this, please let us know!). HB 1592 would have allowed provisional licenses for military spouses moving to Washington with a license from another state. AIA|WA was neutral on the legislation because it would have allowed licensing authorities, including the Board for Architects, to determine whether another state’s qualifications are equal to Washington’s – but the bill failed to pass.

For questions about any of these bills or other legislation under consideration, contact Kirsten.

LOCAL NEWS

Comprehensive Plan
Seattle has released a name for its Comp Plan effort due in 2024 – One Seattle Plan – and it now has a website. Required by the state to plan for how the city will accommodate growth over the next two decades, the Comp Plan will address crucial questions around how we distribute opportunity, what our neighborhoods should look like, and what changes we need to make to create a more sustainable and resilient city. You can provide feedback directly to the city  via its Comp Plan Survey. You can be part of AIA’s effort by joining our Comp Plan Work Group, which meets every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 12-1pm. Or, you can sign up to receive updates about our efforts so that you can plug in wherever you like. Contact Kirsten for more info.

Seattle Tree Ordinance
Seattle is considering new rules on tree protections which are significantly more restrictive than existing requirements. The ordinance would expand the types and sizes of trees that are regulated, require more notice of tree removal, establish payment in lieu of for tree replacement, and more. More info about the proposals is available here. Most of the provisions are currently being appealed after the city issued a finding of non-significance under SEPA, but there is current legislation (CB 120207) related to tree service providers and public notice requirements around tree removal before the City Council’s Land Use and Neighborhoods Committee. A public hearing will be held on that bill on March 23 at 2pm. You may comment by calling in to the hearing or by emailing committee members directly. A vote on the bill will be scheduled for a future meeting.

AIA is seeking member feedback on all the provisions in the draft tree ordinance, as well as on how these rules should be prioritized when balancing other city priorities. We’ll use your feedback to help inform our work on these issues. Please consider submitting your comments via our Tree Ordinance Survey or contact Kirsten with feedback.

Seattle Building Performance Standards
Seattle’s Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE) is conducting stakeholder and community engagement on creating draft legislation for new building performance standards for commercial and multifamily buildings 20,000 sq ft and larger to reduce carbon emissions and transition towards cleaner buildings. The legislation will set carbon emissions targets that would become gradually stronger over time, reaching net-zero carbon emissions buildings by 2050. OSE will present on the potential regulations and take your comments on April 5, noon-1:30pm via Zoom. Register here.

Design Review
As mandated by the City Council in this year’s budget, OPCD and SDCI are working to put together a plan to evaluate the city’s Design Review program by conducting a Race and Equity Toolkit (RET) analysis of Design Review; reviewing Design Review outcomes and departures; analyzing whether the program increases housing costs; reviewing best practices from other cities; and putting together a stakeholder group to recommend program revisions. AIA is interested in hearing about your experiences with Design Review in Seattle and other cities; we’ll use your answers to help inform AIA Seattle’s position and ongoing work on the program. Please take our Design Review Survey or contact Kirsten with feedback.

OPPORTUNITIES

Seattle Planning Commission Seeks New Member
The Seattle Planning Commission is seeking a new commissioner. The Commission advises the mayor, City Council, and city departments on citywide planning goals, policies, and plans and provides them with independent advice on land use, zoning, transportation, housing, and related issues. The Commission also stewards the city’s Comprehensive Plan. Applicants must be current residents of Seattle and be able to attend a minimum of three Commission meetings per month (currently held online), with occasional community meetings. Send a letter of interest and resume by April 1 via email to Vanessa Murdock, the Commission’s executive director.

Washington Board for Architects Position Open
The Washington State Board for Architects will have a Board Member position available starting in June 2022. The seven-member, governor-appointed board is made up of one member of the public and six registered architects who reside in Washington and have at least eight years of experience in responsible charge of architectural work. The Board’s primary function is to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare through regulating the practice of architecture. Board member responsibilities include:

  • Attending board meetings (approx. four a year)
  • Participating in board committees for specific projects
  • Acting as a case manager or as part of the judicial panel in disciplinary cases
  • Representing the board to the profession and the public
  • Attending national council meetings as needed
  • Reviewing applications as needed

More information about this position is available here. Applications can be found via the governor’s website, here (nomination to join the board is a gubernatorial appointment), and should be submitted by April 15.

Public Comment Period Open for West Seattle and Ballard Light Rail Extension
Members of the public can comment on the Draft EIS analysis for extending light rail to West Seattle and Ballard, including providing feedback on routes and station alternatives. The survey is open until April 28. Virtual public meetings are also scheduled throughout March. More info here.

We would love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Kirsten Smith
Manager of Policy + Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-708-3199 | kirstens@aiaseattle.temp312.kinsta.cloud

Posted in Advocacy

Seattle Tree Ordinance

In February, the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) and the Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE) released a draft SEPA ordinance on tree protections. The ordinance would expand the types and sizes of trees that are regulated, require more notice of tree removal, establish payment in lieu of for tree replacement, and more. AIA is seeking member feedback on these provisions, most of which are currently under SEPA appeal.

The below information comes from Councilmember Dan Strauss’ office and this overview document from SDCI and OSE. The document provides additional background information as well as more detail on each of the recommended actions.

SEPA Draft Director’s Report: Tree Protections Update

SDCI and OSE have prepared draft updates to the Land Use and Tree Protection Codes that would implement the strategies from Resolution 31902 (2019) to increase tree protection consistent with the goals and policies of the 2015–2035 Comprehensive Plan and the 2020 Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP). This draft legislation would respond to the direction in the resolution from City Council and allow for the expansion of the tree protections by accomplishing the following:

  1. Expand the types and sizes of trees that are regulated, including a new definition of significant trees;
  2. Regulate significant trees 12 inches in diameter and larger;
  3. Simplify provisions, including allowing development standards to be modified to aid in tree preservation as an administrative process without requiring Design Review, while maintaining Design Review as an option in multifamily and commercial zones;
  4. Establish a payment option for tree replacement (payment in lieu);
  5. Support tracking of tree preservation, removal, and replacement; and
  6. Increase penalties for violations of tree regulations.

The draft ordinance and updated business practices fall into these major categories:

  1. Requires tree service providers to register with the City
  2. Prohibits tree service providers who significantly violate tree protections from working in Seattle
  3. Requires public notice for tree removals

These changes are provided for in Council Bill 120207, currently before the Council’s Land Use and Neighborhoods Committee. The language is not part of the SEPA draft.

  1. Limits property owners tree removals to trees under 12” in diameter and establishes property owner self-reporting
  2. Defines significant trees as 6” diameter or greater
  3. Requires replacement of significant trees 12” diameter or greater removed through development
  4. Increases illegal tree removal penalties by 50%

  1. Establishes species-by-species size thresholds for Exceptional Trees (starting at 6” diameter), which cannot be removed in many circumstances
  2. Expands overall Exceptional Tree threshold to 24” in diameter from 30” and add tree groves and heritage trees

Significant trees and tree replacement requirements
The draft ordinance would require any significant tree 12 inches or greater in diameter removed as part of development to be either replaced on-site or mitigated by payment in-lieu of replacement, unless hazardous. This would allow for a property owner to remove up to three smaller diameter trees per year that are under 12 inches in diameter outside of development, which aids and supports a private property owner’s decision such as to have a garden and/or increase solar access.

Tree replacement requirements would continue to be based on the size of the tree removed as well as the proposed payment option. The replacement requirements are:

  • Each exceptional and significant tree that is removed in association with development in all zones shall be replaced by one or more new trees, the size and species of which shall be determined by the Director.
  • The tree replacement required shall be designed to result, upon maturity, in a canopy cover that is at least equal to the canopy cover prior to tree removal.
  • Preference is for onsite replacement. When onsite replacement cannot be achieved, or is not appropriate as determined by the Director, preference for offsite replacement is on public property.

Ecological Function
The draft ordinance would give SDCI arborist staff discretion to evaluate the ecological function of significant trees over 12 inches in diameter and all exceptional trees and potential exceptional trees and determine the likelihood that the trees will live to maturity due to factors including health and physical condition, development site constraints, and environmental conditions external to the development site. Ecological function would be further used to determine whether trees in these two categories would be required to be protected or, if removed, replaced according to the provisions of the tree code.

  1. Charge $436 for removal of significant trees larger than 12” in diameter
  2. Charge $17.87/square inch of trunk for removal of exceptional trees
  3. Payments calibrated to allow City replanting to replace lost tree canopy

 

SEPA Appeal

The city received a SEPA appeal from the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish County and several real estate entities challenging items 2-4 above. The appeal challenges the city’s determination of non-significance and seeks to force the city to prepare a full EIS. The Hearing Examiner will take up this appeal, and the City Council cannot consider these three proposals until that appeal is resolved.

Posted in Advocacy

2022 Fellowship Announcement

Kjell Anderson FAIA

Kjell Anderson FAIA, LEED Fellow, practices architecture and serves as a Principal and the Director of Sustainable Design at LMN Architects, working with all of LMN’s clients to set and exceed sustainable design goals. He wrote the first architect-centered book on energy modeling, co-authored AIA’s first policy statement on climate change, and has spoken extensively on energy, water, materials, and embodied carbon. He founded the Seattle Hub of the Carbon Leadership Forum and serves on the AIA National Committee on the Environment and the Washington State Building Code Council where he chairs the Energy Code Technical Advisory Group. A lifelong Washingtonian, he lives in Seattle with his wife and two daughters and enjoys playing music and soccer.

Posted in Fellows and Honors

International Women’s Day 2022

A collage of Women

In principle and in practice, AIA Seattle values and seeks diverse and inclusive participation within the field of architecture. Over 60% of AIA Seattle leaders are women, including Board, Committee Chairs, and Staff, and our chapter continues to exceed the national average for women members.

Learn more about our committees working to advance equity within the profession, including Women in Design and Diversity Roundtable.

Women in Design Committee Updates

The Women in Design Committee (WiD) celebrates women in the design professions and supports their professional development and leadership growth by providing a forum for thoughtful discussion and networking. The committee meets the fourth Thursday of every month at noon, currently via Zoom due to COVID-19. AIA Seattle members, allied members, and sponsors are encouraged to join as well as other professionals in the design community. New and interested members are welcome at any monthly meeting, no pre-registration is required.

Subscribe to WiD’s newsletter for updates, events, and meetings.

Articles of Note

Posted in Uncategorized

2022 Culture Change in Practice: A Leadership Cohort

This four-part, peer-based learning program was designed by a team of architects and allied professionals to specifically provide architecture and allied firms the tools and community to meet the explicit goals and metrics laid out in NOMA NW’s Call-to-Action. It is the second edition of the Culture Change in Practice program. 

The architectural profession is still predominantly white and predominantly male. Of the AIA Seattle’s over 2,600 members, just 27 are Black or African American, and 3 are Indigenous American, while only 32% are women or nonbinary according to AIA members’ self-reported data. Creating culture change within architecture firms is a critical step to creating a more diverse and equitable profession. And through this professional change, AIA Seattle hopes to influence broader cultural change, due to the unique role of architects in crafting our physical environment. 

This program builds off AIA Seattle’s Intercultural Leadership Program and Conversations Toward A More Equitable Practice series in 2019, and is part of our Racial Justice Commitments. It serves as part of an ongoing response to racist violence, inequitable firm culture, and a segregated built environment, with a lens on architecture’s specific role in creating equity both within the profession and in the projects we carry out. It is created in partnership with NOMA NW, and Planning in Color. 

TARGET PARTICIPANTS – FIRM LEADERS

We invite a dedicated cohort of 40 firm leaders who have committed to, or are considering, the NOMA NW Call-to-Action Pledge. This peer-to-peer learning cohort, facilitated by Dr. Anu Taranath, will support firms’ ability to live up to the goals of the pledge and equip leaders to catalyze change outward in their own firms. 

  • (40) Firm Leaders: lead firms, lead practice groups, lead teams, are direct supervisors, make key decisions and have significant influence and power in shaping the culture and staffing of the firm or projects i.e Principals, Partners, Owners – with the intent of facilitating broader impact within their firms and industry 

Space is limited to 40 total registrants. Firms are encouraged to sign up to two (2) participants for this cohort. 

In response to requests from BIPOC participants in our first cohort, we are also asking participants to opt-in at registration to the White Male, White Female/nonbinary, or BIPOC affinity group. Each of these three groups will have one, shorter lunchtime gathering at a time TBC, convened by our facilitator to provide safe(r) space for discussions, alongside the four, cohort-wide learning sessions. 

FULL SERIES COST 

PLEASE NOTE: Each registration confirms a spot for one individual based on the size of their firm. Up to two (2) individuals per firm may participate in the program. Cost includes continuing education credit (12 AIA LU HSW).

$500 (per person)  1-7 Employees (firm size)
$1000 (per person)  8-49 Employees (firm size)
$1500 (per person)  50+ Employees (firm size)
$1500 (per person)  CAP Sponsors

Registration has closed

In order to implement feedback from past cohort members and our planning team, and to allow time for ongoing conversations with prospective registrants, we have delayed the March session of the Culture Change in Practice cohort, and extended the registration deadline to Monday, May 16. A new session date has been added on Monday, December 5; all other dates remain the same. 

Registration includes all four courses in the series (12 AIA LU HSW). Individual course registration is not available. Participants must attend all courses in order to receive continuing education credit or a certificate of completion. All registration questions can be directed to Andrea Aguilera.  

In recognition that this fee may present a hardship to some firms who are nevertheless committed to investing in the work, limited reduced rate options are available on a first come, first serve basis (priority given to AIA members). Please submit the Scholarship / Reduced Rate Request Form via email by Monday, May 9, 5:00pm PT.   

While we are striving to prevent or minimize the labor that BIPOC firm leaders are often asked to carry out in equity-related conversations, we recognize that our world’s power dynamics may unintentionally arise in this space. With that in mind, we encourage BIPOC and other marginalized participants to submit a Scholarship/Reduced Rate Request Form with their participation.  

COMMITMENT + SCHEDULE

Series registrants commit to participate in all four courses, understanding that the content will be designed sequentially for cohort-based learning. Program dates subject to change with notice to all registrants.

Session 1 | Monday, March 28, May, 23*, 9:00am-12:00pm PT 

*We have delayed the March session of the Culture Change in Practice cohort, to occur Monday, May 23.

Session 2 | Monday, August 29, 9:00am-12:00pm PT 

Session 3 | Monday, October 3, Friday, October 7, 9:00am-12:00pm PT

Session 4 | Monday, December 5, Friday, December 2, 9:00am-12:00pm PT

Click here for attendee resources

As noted above, participants who opt-in to the affinity groups will be invited to one, additional lunchtime gathering at three respective dates, to be confirmed. 

Guiding questions and readings will be sent to participants prior to, and following, each session. 

MEET THE FACILITATOR

Dr. Anu Taranath, Dr. Anu Consulting: dialogues for justice | Dr. Anu Taranath brings both passion and expertise to her work as a speaker, facilitator, author and educator. A University of Washington professor for the past 20 years, she teaches about race, gender, equity, and global literatures. As a DEI and racial equity consultant, she offers coaching, training, facilitation and other types of partnerships. Her book Beyond Guilt Trips: Mindful Travel in an Unequal World was named a Finalist for four book awards including the Washington State Book Award. Included in Fodor’s Travel’s “13 Books to Inspire Your Travels” and Oprah Magazine’s “Best 26 Travel Books of All Times,” Dr. Anu and her book have been profiled in YES!, AFAR, Bitch, Mindful and National Geographic magazines. Please visit www.anutaranath.com for more on Dr. Anu and her work.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Assess design practices and community/firm integration, to understand how current firm management and top-down design practices are affecting the health and wellbeing of those who occupy the buildings architects design.
  • Share best practices around mentorship, clear metrics, and paths-to-leadership for BIPOC and other historically marginalized people which are not typically seen in leadership positions in architecture.
  • Define and more intentionally cultivate a safe/safer space for BIPOC staff and occupants, and widen the understanding of “user/client” in design practice. Through this, attendees will recognize and respond to environmental racism and White supremacist design principles to produce healthier buildings.
  • Develop skills and language to weave DEI and anti-racism into specific project work – to better equip participants to assess the diverse social, physical, and emotional needs of clients who will use their buildings.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PLANNING TEAM

Whitney Lewis Assoc. AIA, Diversity Roundtable/AIA Board of Directors/GGLO | Susan Frieson AIA, Diversity Roundtable/NOMA NW/Weber Thompson | Mark Chubb Assoc. AIA, Code Unlimited | Mathew Albores AIA, The Miller Hull Partnership | Genevieve MacNeil Assoc. AIA, Diversity Roundtable/Gensler | Kristen Riley Assoc. AIA, LMN Architects | Stephanie Velasco, Planning in Color | Meredith Everist AIA, AIA Board of Directors/Baylis Architect | Jennie C. Li, Planning in Color | Simba Mafundikwa Assoc. AIA, NOMA NW/AIA Membership Steering Committee/GGLO | Marijana Misic AIA, AIA Board of Directors/Mahlum | Patreese Martin AIA, Bohlin Cywinski Jackson | Leon Holloway AIA, Professional Practice Steering Committee/NOMA NW/DLR Group | Veronica Barrow Assoc. AIA, NOMA NW/Veronica Barrow Design 

PARTICIPATING FIRMS

Olson Kundig | Weber Thompson | The Miller Hull Partnership | Nakano Associates | Dykeman | SHKS Architects
+ many more

Registration or Credit Questions?
Contact Andrea Aguilera, Programs Coordinator at AIA Seattle

Program Questions?
Contact Zoe Guckenheimer, Programs Manager at AIA Seattle

Sponsorship Questions?
Contact Kristen Lound, Associate Director of Growth & Operations at AIA Seattle

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Uncategorized

Advocacy Update – February 2022

NATIONAL NEWS

National Building Performance Standard Effort
At the United States Conference of Mayors winter meeting in January, President Biden announced a new partnership with state and local governments to reduce carbon emissions from the built environment. Known as the Building Performance Standards Coalition, participating jurisdictions include the states of Washington and Colorado and 31 cities, including Seattle. This partnership will support Seattle and state efforts to equitably transition our buildings off fossil fuels to a clean energy future and energize policy innovation. We’re currently working with Seattle’s Office of Sustainability and Environment and the Washington Dept. of Commerce to determine how architects can participate in this effort.

STATE NEWS

State Building Code Council – 2021 Commercial Energy Code
The 2021 commercial energy code amendments will be voted on by State Building Code Council members on April 22. You can view the proposed rule here. Written comments may be submitted through March 11. The SBCC will also have public hearings on the amendments on Feb. 25 and March 11 – signups are being accepted for verbal (remote) testimony at the Feb. 25 meeting, with overflow expected at the March 11 meeting. AIA is paying close attention to new requirements for the use of efficient electric heat pumps for space and water heating in new commercial and large multifamily buildings. We encourage architects and firms who support these amendments to weigh in with the Council in one of the following ways:

  • Submit written comments by March 11 to sbcc@des.wa.gov;
  • Provide verbal comments to the SBCC at its Feb. 25 meeting (contact Kirsten for more info); or
  • Sign on to a building industry letter in support of the heat pump provisions (as an individual or a firm)

AIA|WA Energy code info session: Kjell Anderson AIA, the architects’ representative to the SBCC, will hold an info session on the proposals that are up for consideration TODAY, Feb. 17, at 2pm. More info here.

State Legislative Session Update
Tuesday was the cutoff date for all bills to have passed out of their house of origin and move on to the second house. Those that failed to pass are dead. Here is a review of key AIA bills that remain alive and will be considered in their second house:

Climate

  • HB 1770 – Requires the State Building Code Council to develop a residential energy reach code that local governments can opt to use instead of baseline state code; also includes net zero ready requirements.
  • SB 5722 – Extends building performance requirements to smaller buildings.
  • HB 1280 – Requires an analysis of the use of all-electrific systems as part of the pre-design work for large state buildings.
  • HB 1099 – Adds a climate element to the state’s Growth Management Act requirements.

ACT NOW: If your senator is a member of the Senate Environment Committee (check here), please consider emailing them to ask for support on HB 1770 and HB 1280. We expect them to vote on both bills in committee early next week. Contact Kirsten if you need help with messaging or the email address.

Housing

  • HB 1882 – Creates a housing benefit district pilot program to plan and fund land acquisition for affordable housing near major transit stops (this bill did not pass its house of origin but it has an exemption because it impacts the budget).
  • HB 1660 – Eliminates local restrictions related to ADUs, including owner occupancy requirements and some parking requirements.
  • SB 5818 – Limits SEPA and GMA appeals related to affordable housing projects.

Note: HB 1782 on missing middle housing was eligible for a vote on the House floor, albeit in very reduced form, but Democratic leadership did not allow a vote. This almost always means that the bill did not have the votes to pass. This bill is dead for this year, but it will be back in some form next year. In the meantime, AIA will work with legislators to provide the kind of envisioning of missing middle housing that AIA Seattle’s Comp Plan Work Group will be working on, as well as ideas on how housing projects can move through local review more quickly (without eliminating local review – which was the subject of two bills this year) 

Practice
HB 1592 – Provides for provisional licenses for military spouses with a license from another state, but allows licensing authorities to determine whether the qualifications are equal to Washington’s.

For questions about any of these bills or other legislation under consideration, contact Kirsten.

How you can participate

  • You can contact your three legislators at any time about legislation or a policy issue. You can find their emails here. If you need to look up who your legislators are, you can do so with your home address here.
  • You can register your position on bills, sign up to testify at a committee hearing, or offer written comments on a bill. Contact Kirsten for help.

 Thank you to the AIA Seattle members who have testified “in” Olympia since our last report!

  • Christopher Patano AIA | EHDD | SB 5722 – building performance standard extension
  • Duane Jonlin FAIA | City of Seattle | HB 1770 – energy codes
  • Chris Hellstern AIA | The Miller Hull Partnership | HB 1770 – energy codes

LOCAL NEWS

Seattle Land Use Omnibus
SDCI has drafted new land use omnibus legislation to fix smaller issues with the land use code. The legislation is currently in the SEPA appeal process and will then be transmitted to the City Council. AIA is asking members to review the provisions and let us know if you have concerns or suggested edits. For more info or to submit comments, go to AIA’s worksheet or contact Kirsten.

OPPORTUNITIES

Seattle Planning Commission Vacancy
The Seattle Planning Commission is looking for a new member to help advise the Mayor’s Office and City Council about planning and development related decisions. Candidates must be current residents of Seattle and be able to attend three meetings per month, with additional time out of meetings to attend events or review materials as needed. Additional info from the Commission:

Ideal candidates add diverse experience to the Commission, and can bring to light issues facing all parts of the city as a result of their professional and lived experiences. We look for applicants who have a combination of the following characteristics:

  • Bring a commitment to making Seattle a great place to live and have interest in, knowledge of, or professional experience in land use, zoning, or other aspects of planning.
  • Have a strong understanding of racial equity, and the impacts of racialized policies and practices in the field of planning.
  • Have a commitment to community-building and community engagement.
  • Understand transportation investments and how they impact the neighborhoods around them.
  • Can speak to the needs of affordable housing and/or understand what role affordability plays in the city.
  • Have a passion for communicating planning topics to a diverse audience.

Please contact Planning Commission staff for more information about applying.

Washington Board for Architects Position Open
The Washington State Board for Architects will have a Board Member position available starting in June 2022. The seven-member, governor-appointed board is made up of one member of the public and six registered architects who reside in Washington and have at least eight years’ experience in responsible charge of architectural work. The Board’s primary function is to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare through regulating the practice of architecture. Board member responsibilities include:

  • Attending board meetings (approx. four a year)
  • Participating in board committees for specific projects
  • Acting as a case manager or as part of the judicial panel in disciplinary cases
  • Representing the board responsibly to the profession and the public
  • Attending national council meetings as needed
  • Reviewing applications as needed

More information about this position is available here. Applications can be found here, and should be submitted by April 15.

EVENTS/WORK GROUPS

AIA’s 2022 Policy Projects: Comprehensive Plan & Design Review    
In 2022 we’ll be working on two major public policy efforts: the Seattle Comprehensive Plan and ongoing work to make Seattle’s Design Review process more effective for everyone. We’d like your input and participation! Specific opportunities are below, but please reach out to Kirsten if you have comments at any time.

Comprehensive Plan
Seattle’s update of its Major Comprehensive Plan (2022-24) is arguably one of the most critical points in the city’s history. Required by the state to plan for how the city will accommodate growth over the next two decades, the Comp Plan will address crucial questions around how we distribute opportunity, what our neighborhoods should look like, and what changes we need to make to create a more sustainable and resilient city. You can be part of this effort by joining our Comp Plan Work Group, which meets every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 12-1pm. Or, you can sign up to receive updates about our efforts so that you can plug in wherever you like. Contact Kirsten for more info.

Design Review
We’re looking for architects’ feedback on Seattle’s Design Review process and how it might be improved to achieve the design and community objectives it was intended to accomplish. Join us for AIA’s Design Review Work Session on Friday, March 4, 1-2pm. Member and non-member architects, designers, and associates welcome.

We would love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Kirsten Smith
Manager of Policy + Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-708-3199 | kirstens@aiaseattle.temp312.kinsta.cloud

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

Black History Month – 2022

Celebrating Black History Month graphic

At AIA Seattle we share this vision and celebrate the contributions of Black architects and designers to our profession. We are committed to a process of transparency in what measurable actions we are taking in pursuit of racial justice. We have established an evolving list for the sake of mutual accountability in our member-led organization. Read the full evolving list of Racial Justice commitments here.

 

Chapter Updates

This past year encouraged each of us to find new ways to grow, adapt, and challenge the world around us. In 2021, the JE:DI Council worked in support of the Chapter’s ongoing EDI work, naming and confronting systemic discrimination within the AEC professions. Currently, this group is evaluating the impact of the policies that guide our Chapter, with the goal of proposing recommendations to provide greater access and foster a culture of inclusion and fairness. This group meets twice a month, with lunchtime listening sessions planned on the second Tuesday of each month. Connect with the JE:DI Council chairs to learn more about how to get engaged.

As a corollary to our 2019 Intercultural Leadership Program and 2021 Culture Change in Practice leadership cohort, AIA Seattle is continuing its partnership with NOMA NW and Planning in Color to convene its second architecture and allied firm leadership cohort for 2022. Through peer-based learning, this group will develop and share with one another best practices to meet the objectives laid out in the NOMA NW Call-to-Action. This year’s series registration launches next week!

Congrats to Alison Pride AIA who received the Black Engineer of the Year Award!

 

Diversity Roundtable Committee Updates

Diversity by Design: Equity in Architecture, the latest exhibit @ the Center, showcases 7 Northwest Regional projects submitted to Diversity Roundtable’s open call to celebrate the work of underrepresented designers. This show, which complements the Diversity by Design website, offers an opportunity for underrepresented architects to showcase their work and highlights the experience and impact community involvement has on the architect of color, the design of the building, and the community in which the building resides.

While the “Architects in Schools” program is still on pause, Diversity Roundtable (DRT) has been working with the Wild Students in collaboration with Sawhorse Revolution, virtually mentoring high school students about the design and build process. In 2021, together they transformed the design of the Garden Shed for Danny Woo Gardens.

Join Diversity Roundtable! DRT attracts, retains, and empowers individuals of underrepresented backgrounds in the profession of architecture through scholarship, community service, and activism. DRT meets (virtually until further notice) the first Tuesday of every month at 5 pm.

 

NOMA Updates

NOMA National‘s Prescott Reavis, with help from Rachel Bascombe, curated a month of Black history in architecture spotlights, Looking Black on Instagram. We offer our condolences to the NOMA community and the family and friends of Prescott Reavis, who passed away earlier this week.

NOMA partners with Black Spectacles to ease the licensure process for minority architects.

 

Extended Community Events and Resources

The 2022 Black History Month Virtual Festival explores Black Health and Wellness. Black Bodies: From Exploitation to Excellence, kicks off tomorrow, featuring panel discussions exploring historic exploitation of Black bodies for the advancement of scientific and medical discovery. See the full schedule and purchase tickets now!

Fireclay Tile and the Architecture Foundation have sponsored a Diversity Advancement Scholarship to support Black Women in Architecture. More information here.

Learn about Black history in five minutes a day with 28 Days of Black History. Curated by Black artists, educators, curators, and visionaries, this interactive series will center on stories of Black marginalized voices that are often overlooked in Black history narratives.

Hip Hop Architecture Camp positions Hip Hop culture as a catalyst to introduce underrepresented youth to architecture, urban planning, and design. It is a one-week intensive experience, designed to introduce underrepresented youth to architecture, urban planning, creative placemaking, and economic development through the lens of hip hop culture. Volunteer or host a camp with them now!

#EQxD2022 – The JE:DI Agenda in Action Series is an augmented series of panels and workshops that proposes a new paradigm for designing a just future in which the built environment cultivates dignity, belonging, agency and mutualism.

The AIA Guides for Equitable Practice are a resource to help ensure organizations meet professional and cultural awareness expectations of employees and clients.

 

Articles of note:

 

Have another event or resource we should share? Tell us about it here.

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Missions, Visions, Values

Seattle Comprehensive Plan: AIA Work Group

AIA Seattle believes the vision for City of Seattle should be a livable city with a variety of housing near many types of amenities, retail cores, and transit that is accessible to everyone, where everything residents need can be reached within 15 minutes by walking, rolling, or public transit. 

AIA Seattle Members are encouraged to get active and share input to impact the future of the City of Seattle by (1) attending an upcoming Open House and (2) creating a profile on the engagement hub to share written comments 

AIA Seattle’s input on the Draft Comprehensive Plan includes multiple recommendations which members can use as talking points, based on place types within the proposed plan.

DOWNLOAD AIA Seattle’s Draft Comprehensive Plan letter and recommendations to City of Seattle Staff and elected officials.

The following recommendations are based on the 2024 Draft One Seattle Plan and 2024 Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The future of Seattle relies on a more robust plan than the current draft versions to truly provide a roadmap for where and how our city will grow and invest in communities over the next 20 years and beyond.

Urban Centers/ Regional Centers 

Recommendations: 

  • Expand the number of Urban Centers around parks, open spaces and waterfront areas, even if they are on the periphery of the city to right the wrong of excluding housing options near parks and public schools.
  • Maintain OPCD’s proposed expansions of existing Urban Centers and include additional expansions to take advantage of the walk/roll accessible area[1] of Link at places such as Columbia City and University of Washington Stations
  • Create additional Urban Centers at all future Link Stations locations including NE 145, Interbay, and North Delridge.
  • Add Urban Centers near our coastlines and adjacent to open spaces such as Discovery and Magnuson Parks.
  • Maximize the potential for housing and allow high rise zoning in all Regional Centers and within Urban Centers adjacent to Link Stations.
  • Allow eight story residential construction on the majority of land within all Urban Centers.

AIA Seattle supports the expansion of the Urban Centers and the naming of Ballard as a Regional Center. AIA Seattle recommends expanding the number of Urban Centers to other areas around parks, open spaces and waterfront areas, even if they are on the periphery of the city. Expanding the number of Urban Centers would create more livable neighborhoods and reduce reliance on cars, which will allow the City to achieve its goal of reducing carbon emissions by 58% by 2030 as outlined in the City’s 2020 GHG Inventory.

Neighborhood Centers 

Recommendations: 

  • Include in the final Comprehensive Plan all 42 potential areas studied in the DEIS as Neighborhood Centers.
  • In the final EIS, study the addition of Neighborhood Centers within ¾ of a mile of every parcel not already served by more dense areas such Corridors, Urban Centers, or Regional Centers.
  • Consider Neighborhood Centers within ½ mile of each other as a single Neighborhood Center.
  • Increase the maximum height limit in Neighborhood Centers to be no less than five stories (the maximum Seattle allows for solely wood construction) with a bonus of three additional stories for projects that are deemed affordable by the City.

AIA Seattle strongly supports the idea of Neighborhood Centers as a significant and energetic improvement to Seattle as a city. Neighborhood Centers have already formed organically, and with intentionality added by the Comprehensive plan could become more vibrant, walkable and rollable areas that everyone can enjoy. Neighborhood Centers will allow Seattleites to be able to access their daily needs within a short walk/roll of their home, in line with the City’s stated goals of achieving a 15-Minute City.

The current plan has only 24 Neighborhood Centers indicated. The areas studied during scoping and removed from the Draft Comprehensive Plan are more affluent areas, and counter to the city’s own statement that the plan approach addresses past exclusionary policies and practices and the need to expand housing and neighborhood access. AIA Seattle recommends all 42 potential areas originally included during scoping be studied in the DEIS and be included in the final Comp Plan.

In addition, AIA Seattle recommends studying in the final EIS the addition of a Neighborhood Center within ¾ of a mile of every parcel not already served by denser areas such as Corridors, Urban Centers, or Regional Centers. Additional Centers could be located around large open spaces, parks and other existing public amenities like libraries and community centers.

Neighborhood Centers could become the main street of a neighborhood by increasing the proposed zoning area from 800’ radius to ¼ mile radius. 800 feet is too small an area for this type of development and future use of these areas.

Neighborhood Centers within ½ mile of each other should be considered as a single Neighborhood Center to create areas that will attract locals and visitors to shop and support businesses. Neighborhood Centers in close proximity to each other and considered to be a single Neighborhood Center could become an entrenched part of their community and exist for many decades to come.

In that spirit, AIA Seattle recommends the maximum height limit in Neighborhood Centers be no less than five stories (the maximum Seattle allows for solely wood construction) with a bonus of three additional stories for projects that are deemed affordable by the City.  Measures to mitigate displacement of existing small businesses should be considered in zoning and development standards for Neighborhood Centers. Refer to the work of Africatown Community Land Trust and their work with the Liberty Bank Building in the Central District for example policies.

Urban Neighborhoods/Neighborhood Residential 

Recommendations: 

  • Allow flexibility for/incentivize more housing types such as stacked flats instead of creating rules that only incentivize townhouses.
  • Remove Floor Area Ratio (FAR) as a limiting factor in the draft EIS and as part of the Comprehensive Plan.
    • if FAR must remain, the FAR requirement should at least meet the Department of Commerce guidelines (1.2 for 4 units) and preferably higher; allowed FAR should increase as the number of units increases.
    • incentivize retention of existing houses by not counting them towards lot coverage/ FAR/ unit count.
  • Incentivize more units with lot coverage—for example: allow 35% lot coverage for two units or less, 50% lot coverage for three units, and 65% lot coverage for four or more units.
  • Remove unit limits.
    • Allow AADUs without counting AADUs towards the number of units on a parcel, so long as the AADUs are not pedunculated.
  • Allow subdivision of parcels by right so homeowners can stay in their homes and sell off parcels.
  • Eliminate parking mandates while providing on street EV charging.
  • Study allowing four stories in the Final EIS to maximize flexibility.

AIA Seattle supports the concept of Urban Neighborhoods. The Draft Comprehensive Plan limits possibilities and flexibility in what is stated and implied in the plan. Though the Washington State Department of Commerce created a guide for how cities could modify their residential zones, such guidelines are a baseline, not a ceiling. Not every lot will be feasible to develop. Not every lot will be available in the marketplace to develop.  Infill will happen incrementally over time. Flexibility now and in the future is key so that those parcels that do become available for development are able to provide needed infill housing instead of being limited for development. The Comprehensive Plan should not be based on what small builder developers construct right now under existing conditions and instead should maximize what is possible so that other unit types such as stacked flats and others can be constructed in the future.

AIA Seattle recommends removing Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in Urban Neighborhoods from the Comprehensive Plan. Spokane has already implemented changes through zoning to maximize flexibility for parcels that provide infill housing. Spokane does not use the concept of density limits or FAR and instead controls height (35’ maximum) and lot coverage (65% maximum). These changes would allow for more projects to be feasible in more areas of the city, increasing both availability of homes for purchase as well as housing options that can serve residents in all parts of the city.

Corner Lots 

Recommendation: 

  • Expand corner store concept to allow greater flexibility of uses for corner lots and “through lots” to encourage development.

AIA Seattle supports the development of corner stores included in the Draft Comprehensive Plan. AIA Seattle recommends expanding the corner store concept to include corner lots and “through lots”, those lots that have a street on each end of them. Additional flexibility would allow the following:

  • Variety of use, not just retail or food restaurant, including clinics, live-work, office, community space, daycare.
  • Increased maximum building height for the interior 12′-0″ to 14′-0″ height necessary for ground level retail.
  • Setback flexibility to include zero lot line structures.
  • Simplified and reduced tree, stormwater, and utility requirements to incentivize development.
  • Subdivision by right for corner lot and through-lot parcels.
  • Taller heights and greater lot coverage/FAR by right even if only including housing.
  • Corner lot use of adjacent small open spaces such as parklets.

Corridors 

Recommendations: 

  • Expand the definition of Corridors as communicated in the draft plan with an increased walk/roll area, increased allowed height, elimination of FAR or at least increase FAR requirements to the minimum embodied in the TOD bills HB 1517/SB 5466.
  • Leverage the right of way for multi-modal transportation and consider future policies to incentivize land owners to participate in such systems.
  • Create affordable housing development bonuses in Corridor areas.

AIA Seattle supports the Draft Comprehensive Plan proposal to increase density along corridors. The area for development should go beyond Corridors as communicated in the Draft Comprehensive Plan, with an increased walk/roll area to allow more dense housing to be built on the transit corridor and in adjacent areas. Commercial uses should be allowed on corridors to contribute to the 15-minute city concept and ultimately to connect Neighborhood Centers.

The allowed height should be increased to what was studied in the DEIS: 5 stories in residential zones and 7 stories in commercial/multifamily zones with flexibility of use over time. If FAR is a continuing requirement, AIA Seattle recommends increasing the FAR to the minimums beyond the EIS scoping document. See the requirements in the TOD bill (HB 1517/SB 5466) from the 2023 legislative session:

  • FAR 6 within 1/4 mile of high-capacity transit + 50% FAR bonus for affordable housing (FAR 9)
  • FAR 4 within 3/4 mile of high-capacity transit + 50% FAR bonus for affordable housing (FAR 6)

AIA Seattle also recommends creating affordable housing development bonuses in Corridor areas.

Conclusion

The above recommendations, if implemented into the final 2024 One Seattle Plan and 2024 Environmental Impact Statement, would provide a roadmap for the next 20 years for a livable city with a variety of housing options near many types of amenities, retail cores, and transit that is accessible to everyone, where everything residents need can be reached within 15 minutes by walking, rolling, or public transit.

[1] Note: ‘Walkshed’ is a commonly used term which does not recognize accessibility by means other than walking. Throughout these recommendations are references to walking/rolling in place of the term ‘walkshed’.

Comp Plan Work Group
Meets every 1st Wednesday, 12-1 pm
Email Melissa K. Neher for the calendar invites

Comp Plan email sign up
Email Melissa K. Neher to be added to our list for email updates on our work on the Comp Plan and related programming.

Seattle’s update of its Major Comprehensive Plan (2022-24) is arguably one of the most critical points in the city’s history. Required by the state to plan for how the city will accommodate growth over the next two decades, the Comp Plan will address crucial questions around how we distribute opportunity, what our neighborhoods should look like, and what changes we need to make to create a more sustainable and resilient city.

AIA Seattle members have come together to move forward positions for a livability 15 minute city!

  • How can we harness architects’ skills and experience to inform questions and ideas about how Seattle will grow?
  • How can we engage the public in design thinking around housing, complete neighborhoods, access, and more?
  • And how can we use our understanding of land use code to promote equitable opportunity and prevent displacement?

We’re looking to tackle these questions and more as we engage in discussion, design experimentation, and deep thinking about Seattle’s future.

You can be part of this effort by joining our Comp Plan Work Group. Contact Melissa K. Neher for more information.

 

Posted in Advocacy Tagged with:

Advocacy Update – January 2022

STATE NEWS

State Building Code Council Releases 2021 Commercial Energy Code
The 2021 commercial energy code amendments have been released by the State Building Code Council; you can view the proposed rule here. Public comments can be emailed to sbcc@des.wa.gov through March 11. The SBCC will also have public hearings on the amendments on Feb. 25 and March 11. AIA is paying close attention to new requirements for the use of efficient electric heat pumps for space and water heating in new commercial and large multifamily buildings. We encourage architects and firms who support these amendments to weigh in with the Council in one of the following ways:

  • Submit email comments by March 11 – we’ll send more info on this soon
  • Provide comments to the SBCC at its Feb. 25 or March 11 meetings (more info coming)
  • Sign on to a building industry letter in support of the heat pump provisions (as an individual or a firm)
  • Share this letter with others in the AEC industry!

State Legislative Session Update
The state legislative session kicked off last week and things are already moving quickly. Look to AIA|WA for a full recap. Here is a review of key AIA bills that have been heard in committee during the first two weeks of session:

Climate

  • HB 1770/SB 5669 – Requires the State Building Code Council to develop a residential energy reach code that local governments can choose to adopt instead of baseline state code.
  • SB 5722/HB 1774 – Extends the state’s building performance standard to smaller buildings.
  • *HB 1280 – Requires an analysis of the use of all-electrification systems as part of the pre-design work for large state buildings.
  • *HB 1099 – Adds a climate element to the state’s Growth Management Act requirements.

Housing

  • HB 1782/SB 5670 – Requires additional middle housing near transit and in areas traditionally dedicated to single-family detached housing.
  • HB 1880 – Creates a housing benefit districts pilot program to plan and fund land acquisition for affordable housing near major transit stops.
  • ADU legislation: HB 1660 (prohibits owner occupancy requirements); HB 1337 (local gov’t requirements related to ADUs); HB 1711 (incentives for building ADUs).
  • SB 5818 – Limits SEPA and GMA appeals related to affordable housing projects

Practice

  • HB 1592 – Provides for temporary licenses for military spouses

*These bills passed the House last year but must pass the House again to move on. They are both awaiting a vote on the House floor. All other bills are new (or have a new version) in 2022 and were heard in committee in the last two weeks. The next step is to be voted on in committee.

For questions about any of these bills or other legislation under consideration, contact Kirsten.

How you can participate

  • You can contact your three legislators at any time about legislation or a policy issue. You can find their emails here (click on the link under “Rosters”). If you need to look up who your legislators are, you can do so with your home address here.
  • You can register your position on bills, sign up to testify at a committee hearing, or offer written comments on a bill. Contact Kirsten for help.

Thank you to the AIA Seattle members who have testified “in” Olympia thus far this session!

  • Christopher Patano AIA – building performance standard
  • Sadie Carlson Assoc. AIA – targeted electrification
  • Matt Hutchins AIA – missing middle housing
  • Duane Jonlin FAIA – energy codes
  • Grace Kim FAIA – housing benefit districts

LOCAL NEWS

AIA’s 2022 Policy Projects: Comprehensive Plan & Design Review
 In 2022 we’ll be working on two major public policy efforts: the Seattle Comprehensive Plan and ongoing work to make Seattle’s Design Review process more effective for everyone. We’d like your input and participation! Specific opportunities are below, but please reach out to Kirsten if you have comments at any time.

Comprehensive Plan
Seattle’s update of its Major Comprehensive Plan (2022-24) is arguably one of the most critical points in the city’s history. Required by the state to plan for how the city will accommodate growth over the next two decades, the Comp Plan will address crucial questions around how we distribute opportunity, what our neighborhoods should look like, and what changes we need to make to create a more sustainable and resilient city.

We need interested members to help AIA creatively respond to the questions inherent in this process. How can we harness architects’ skills and experience to inform questions and ideas about how Seattle will grow? How can we engage the public in design thinking around housing, complete neighborhoods, access, and more? And how can we use our understanding of land use code to promote equitable opportunity and prevent displacement? We’re looking to tackle these questions and more as we engage in discussion, design experimentation, and deep thinking about Seattle’s future.

You can be part of this effort by joining our Comp Plan Work Group, which kicks off in February. Or, you can sign up to receive updates about our efforts so that you can plug in wherever you like. If you’d like to receive info on the Work Group, or just be added to our email distribution list, you can sign up here.

Design Review
We’re looking for architects’ feedback on Seattle’s Design Review process and how it might be improved to achieve the design and community objectives it was intended to accomplish.

We’ll be organizing a session in February for architects and designers to discuss Design Review, including what’s working and what’s not; what changes you would like to see; and what you would like Design Review to achieve – as applicants, board members, and community participants.  We’ll also distribute a survey for architects and designers who prefer to participate in writing. We don’t have a date yet, but we’d love to know if you’re interested. You can add your name to our list here and we’ll send you more info soon. Non-member architects are welcome.

We’d love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Kirsten Smith
Manager of Policy & Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-708-3199 | kirstens@aiaseattle.temp312.kinsta.cloud

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

Register Now for our Upcoming Road to Code Seminars

Join us for four upcoming sessions to learn from Code experts. 

Session 1 | Road to Code | Code Requirements for Doors and Hardware
February 17, 2022 | ONLINE | 12:00PM – 2:00PM // Class Credit: 2 LU/HSW

Session 2 | Road to Code | Beyond the IBC- Expanding Knowledge Across the Code Family
April 19-20, 2022 | ONLINE | 12:00PM – 2:00PM // Class Credit:  4 LU/HSW

Session 3 | Road to Code | Significant Changes to the ICC/ANSI A117.1 – 2017
September 21-22, 2022 | ONLINE | 12:00PM – 2:00PM //Class Credit: 4 LU/HSW

Session 4 | Road to Code | Topical Issues in Residential Design
November 15-16, 2022 | ONLINE | 12:00PM – 2:00PM //Class Credit: 4 LU/HSW

All session dates and times subject to change.

Special Thanks to our 2022 Code Series Sponsors

Allana Buick & Bers | Beacon | Code Unlimited | McKinstry | Prosoco | Woodworks

Degenkolb Engineers | Puget Sound Energy | Windows, Doors, & More 

Code Committee

Special thanks to the Code Committee for planning this series of sessions!

COMMITTEE CHAIRS:

Skye Bredberg, AIA

Mark Chubb, AIA

Program, Registration or Credit Questions?
Contact Andrea Aguilera, Programs Coordinator at AIA Seattle

Sponsorship Questions?
Contact Melissa K. Neher, Executive Director at AIA Seattle

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Uncategorized

2021 Year in Review

AIA Seattle will be closed December 24 through January 3

Dear AIA Seattle Community,

Thank you for the warm welcome to lead AIA Seattle’s mission to champion the central role of architects in creating and sustaining a better built environment. It’s a pleasure to share with you a reflection on our work in 2021 and our plans for 2022. We’ve come a long way in the past year through the availability of vaccines and evolving understanding of COVID 19. 2022 holds the promise of continuing impactful programs and our work to move forward our vision of design that fosters equitable, resilient, and thriving communities.

In 2021, disruptions transformed into opportunities as we adjusted how we provide programs for our members and the community. Over the past year, AIA Seattle has maintained focus on the core elements of our strategic plan, to prepare our profession to lead, to deploy design to make a difference, and to sustain a healthy chapter. We move forward in service to the membership in ten counties which we serve.

We are launching into 2022 with a steady focus on three areas of highest priority for advocacy, engagement, and programming: 

  • Housing
  • Climate
  • Justice and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

We will continue to engage as problems solvers in an evolving environment, and have plans for 2022 to provide education for our members through a broad range of programming including everything from the Small Firm Series to the Climate Leadership Summit. Advocacy plans include hosting sessions for members of the public and profession to learn how they can engage in the City of Seattle’s Comprehensive Plan process, perhaps the most urgent and valuable step forward the city we want to become. In fall we plan to gather together for the Honor Awards, as an opportunity to share and celebrate nationally recognized excellence in design by architects in Washington State.

In 2022, I am personally looking forward to continuing to develop my understanding of your interests and relationships with you as a stakeholder. Your first opportunity to express your interests is below in our brief Programming Feedback Survey, and in early 2022, I’m also hosting ‘Ask Me Anything‘ Sessions in a virtual format. I encourage you to consider what questions you have for me as AIA Seattle’s Executive Director. Submit your questions here and we will group those by theme and announce dates early in the year for interactive zoom sessions.

Thank you for your engagement, and I look forward to our future connections in 2022!

Melissa Neher Executive Director Headshot

Melissa K. Neher
Executive Director, AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival

A Look Back – 2021 Events and Programs

So many great programs were delivered in 2021. Highlights include:

Stay tuned for 2022’s lineup of educational programming and events. First up – the Diversity by Design exhibit – online and at the Center (by appointment) January 19 – July 14.

The Staff of AIA Seattle Welcomed Five New Members to the Team in 2021:

  • Melissa K. Neher, Executive Director
  • Anthony Collins, Membership & Development Coordinator
  • David Le, Communications Coordinator
  • Andrea Aguilera, Programs Coordinator
  • Mitch Britton, Graphic Designer

From all of us at AIA Seattle, we wish you the best for your holiday season and look forward to seeing you all again in 2022!

Note on Holiday Hours: AIA Seattle + Seattle Design Festival will be closed December 24, 2021, through January 3, 2022, for Winter Break.

Posted in For the Profession, Home Page

Advocacy Update – December 2021

STATE NEWS

Washington’s Redistricting Process Ends
Washington’s redistricting saga has ended, with the state Supreme Court declining to develop its own district maps and allowing the maps approved after the deadline by the state’s redistricting commission to take effect. You may view the final Congressional and state legislative district maps here. While redistricting bodies generally try to avoid kicking a sitting legislator out of her own district (by drawing the boundaries outside her home address), there are always some casualties. The new maps draw seven legislators out of their districts, although three were already planning to leave office. The remaining four are: Sen. Bob Hasegawa (D-Seattle); Rep. Shelley Kloba (D-Kirkland); Rep. Jeremie Dufault (R-Selah), and Rep. Vicki Kraft (R-Vancouver). For the 2022 elections, these legislators will have to do one of three things: move into their old district boundaries; run against a sitting incumbent in their new district; or choose not to run again.

Washington’s Legislative Session Kicks Off in January
The state legislative session begins on January 10, 2022 and will be virtual for the public again this year. The Senate will hold sessions in person for senators only while the House is expected to continue the hybrid model with some members in person and some participating virtually. Public testimony and member meetings with the public will continue to take place online, although face-to-face meetings with senators may be possible. Look for additional information on the session from AIA Washington Council in the weeks ahead. Note AIA|WA’s legislative-related events in the “Events” section below.

LOCAL NEWS

Seattle City Budget Finalized
Seattle’s budget wrapped up on Nov. 22 with councilmembers voting 8-1 to approve a $7.1 billion budget package that prioritizes affordable housing, homelessness, and responding to economic crises caused by the pandemic. Mayor Durkan signed the Council’s budget on Dec. 2. Spending highlights include:

  • $355 million for the Seattle Police Department including funds to hire 125 officers in 2022, a $7 million decrease from last year and a $9.9 million reduction from Durkan’s proposed budget;
  • A $194 million investment in affordable housing, including $97 million funded by revenue from the council’s JumpStart payroll tax;
  • Authorization of up to $100 million in bonds to repair bridges around the city;
  • $16.4 million for Green New Deal and climate resilience investments;
  • $15.4 million in new funding for homelessness services under the new Regional Homelessness Authority;
  • Over $10 million for tiny house village short-term housing solutions;
  • $5 million to help create a high acuity shelter with community and county partners to help stabilize unsheltered people experiencing health crises;
  • $2.5 million to expand mobile mental and behavioral health crisis services;
  • A $3.9 million increase for the city’s LEAD post-arrest/pre-booking diversion program; and
  • $1.5 million in Vehicle Residency Outreach and Safe Lots for people living in vehicles;

Source: Seattle Times

AIA supported a successful amendment by Councilmember Dan Strauss to require the Seattle Dept. of Construction & Inspections to report on Design Review-related program outcomes, process improvements, and equity outcomes in 2022.

Seattle Commercial Energy Code Amendment Passes
On Dec. 13, the City Council passed legislation to amend the 2018 Seattle Energy Code adopted Feb. 1, 2021. As originally adopted, the 2018 Seattle Energy Code requires that central water heating in multi-family and hotel uses be performed by heat pump water heaters (HPWH) rather than gas or electric resistance water heaters. Commercial buildings were exempted from this requirement, allowing them to continue to use systems that rely on fossil fuels. The new legislation extends the HPWH requirement to include new commercial buildings that incorporate more than minimal water heating capacity for permits applied for after April 1, 2022. There are several exceptions, most notably that this requirement does not apply to replacement of water heaters in existing commercial buildings. The legislation also includes several technical changes to make the code provisions more coordinated and enforceable. More info here.

Seattle City Council Passes Resolution on URM Buildings
Also this week, the Seattle City Council passed a resolution declaring the city’s intent to ensure that all unreinforced masonry buildings in Seattle are seismically retrofitted. Per the bill summary: “This resolution represents the joint commitment by the Mayor and City Council to work on establishing a URM retrofit program, with a work plan that will be led by the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections and the Office of Emergency Management.” Read the full text here.

Shoreline Updates its Commercial Energy Code
In early December the Shoreline City Council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance that eliminates most uses of fossil fuels for space heating and hot water in newly constructed commercial buildings and multifamily buildings four stories or taller. With the vote, Shoreline became the second city in the Pacific Northwest, after Seattle, to adopt a policy that aids in accelerating the transition to all-electric buildings by eliminating most fossil fuel uses from new commercial and large multi-family development.

Bellingham Considers Stronger Commercial Energy Code
Bellingham’s City Council held a public hearing on Dec 13 to consider an advanced commercial energy code, modeled after Seattle’s. Council will continue consideration early in 2022. Highlights include:

  • Restrictions on heating systems to exclude fossil fuel and electric resistance;
  • Exclusion of fossil fuel and electric resistance central water heating systems; and
  • Increased on-site renewable energy requirements.

Snohomish County Approves C-PACER
This week the Snohomish County Council voted to approve a C-PACER ordinance that will bring low-cost, long-term financing to support energy efficiency and resiliency projects in commercial (including agricultural and industrial) and multi-family buildings of five stories or more. As we have previously reported, C-PACER programs have also been authorized in Thurston, Whatcom, Clark, and most recently King counties. The Snohomish County ordinance authorizes staff to work on developing a program over the next year.

OPPORTUNITIES

Job Opportunity: Policy Researcher, Carbon Leadership Forum at UW
The Carbon Leadership Forum, a research organization based out of the University of Washington’s College of Built Environments, is seeking a collaborative Policy Researcher to help execute its mission to accelerate the decarbonization of the building sector through eliminating the embodied carbon in building materials and construction. More info.

EVENTS

AIA Seattle Housing Task Force
The Housing Task Force meets monthly via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month at noon. All are welcome. For info on how to access the meeting, contact Kirsten.

AIA Washington Council Pre-Legislative Session Events
AIA|WA is hosting three webinars (with CE credit) the week before the state legislative session begins in January:

AIA Washington Council Capitol Connections
Capitol Connections is AIA|WA’s annual lobby event in Olympia, where architects discuss issues important to the profession directly with their legislators. It’s a great opportunity to learn about architect advocacy and the state government process! All meetings in 2022 will be virtual. Learn more here.

We’d love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Kirsten Smith
Manager of Policy & Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-957-1926 | kirstens@aiaseattle.temp312.kinsta.cloud

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

Recipient Announced for 2021 Northwest Washington Section Scholarship

2021-22 Recipient:
My name is Ciera Gordon. After graduating from Burlington-Edison High School, I studied architecture and mechanical engineering with a minor in energy studies at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. I am currently in the final year of the Master of Architecture program at the University of California, Berkeley and will be graduating in 2022.

As I continue my graduate education and prepare to enter into professional practice, I would like to further advance my design skills, delve into the practicalities of materials, construction, and structure, and develop my interests in energy efficiency in the built environment. I am particularly interested in the potential for increased energy efficiency through passive thermal strategies in buildings, building on my second undergraduate major in mechanical engineering and minor in energy studies. I hope to carry this interdisciplinary background into my future work to allow me to approach architectural design from varied perspectives and make informed technical decisions both as a graduate student and professionally. 

About the Northwest Washington Section Scholarship Fund
The goal of the AIA Northwest Washington Section Scholarship is to encourage and assist local residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island and San Juan Counties who are pursuing a degree in architecture in an accredited School of Architecture. Entering its 9th year, the scholarship fund is primarily funded by funds raised at the annual Scholarship Golf Tournament. Despite the cancellation of the 2020 tournament, the Section remains committed to funding the program throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to help students in the region.

About the Northwest Washington Section of American Institute of Architects Seattle Chapter
AIA Northwest Washington is a section of AIA Seattle that provides events and programs for AIA members in Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan counties.

About the Seattle Chapter of the American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1894, AIA Seattle is a not-for-profit professional association of architects, allied professionals, and laypeople. AIA Seattle provides the architecture community with resources and relationships to make a difference through design. unrestricted scholarship support through the Northwest Washington Section’s annual support fund.

Posted in Uncategorized

Advocacy Update – November 2021

STATE NEWS

Washington Redistricting
Washington’s redistricting commission, charged with determining new state and Congressional legislative districts after the 2020 census, failed to meet its Nov. 15 deadline to agree on new district maps. The failure of the panel, made up of two Republicans and two Democrats, means the state’s election maps for the next decade will be determined by the state Supreme Court. At least three of the four commission members are required to agree before maps can be finalized. The Supreme Court now has until April 30 to draw its own maps. This is the first time since Washington adopted a constitutional amendment creating the redistricting commission in 1990 that the commission has failed to produce final maps on time.

State Legislative Session Kicks Off in January
The state legislative session begins on January 10, 2022, and will be virtual for the public again this year. The Senate will hold sessions in person for senators only while the House is expected to continue the hybrid model with some members in person and some participating virtually. Public testimony and member meetings with the public will continue to take place online. Look for additional information on the session from AIA Washington Council in the weeks ahead. And note the legislative preview events under “Events” below.

LOCAL NEWS

King County Council Passes C-PACER Ordinance
This week the King County Council unanimously adopted a C-PACER ordinance that will bring low-cost, long-term financing to support energy efficiency and resiliency projects in commercial and multi-family buildings. C-PACER, Commercial-Property Assessed Clean Energy & Resilience, provides private loans that can be used by building owners to finance deep energy and resilience-related retrofits. Importantly, these loans are treated as liens by the county, so they do not show up on an owner’s books and they stay with the building when sold, not the owner. This allows owners to make long-term investments in their buildings even if they do not plan to maintain ownership over the long term.

AIA helped to pass state legislation to authorize C-PACER financing in Washington, but each county must authorize its own C-PACER program. These loans will support the county’s climate goals and allow larger commercial building owners to make improvements required by the state’s Clean Buildings program. To date, C-PACER programs have also been authorized in Thurston, Whatcom, and Clark counties.

Seattle Announces New Building, Transportation, and Workforce Climate Actions
As part of the COP26 climate summit, Mayor Durkan announced a new Executive Order directing Seattle departments to implement new actions toward net-zero emission buildings, healthy and equitable transportation, and clean energy workforce development. The executive order will do the following:

  Building sector

  • Direct the Office of Sustainability & Environment to create legislation for carbon-based building performance standards for existing commercial and multi-family buildings 20,000 sq ft or larger in 2022 (the state’s building performance standard applies to buildings 50,000 sq ft or higher). AIA will be meeting with OSE staff in December to help flesh out this program.
  • Prohibit fossil fuels in city-owned buildings by 2035.
  • Provide options to lower upfront and operating costs for affordable housing.

  Transportation sector

  • Expand free transit for Seattle Public Schools middle and high school students with additional ORCA cards for middle school students.
  • Expand Seattle’s Stay Healthy Streets to establish the first urban pedestrian zone. Potential sites will be identified by December 31, 2021, for implementation in summer 2022.
  • Take legislative and permitting action to incentivize transportation electrification.
  • Launch a $1 million pilot to convert heavy-duty diesel trucks operating in the Duwamish Valley to electric.

Just transition

  • Launch a clean energy workforce committee to advance the economic equity goals of Seattle’s Green New Deal in alignment with the Green New Deal Oversight Board.
  • Deploy new 2022 clean energy workforce investments and identify capacity and funding needs and regional partnerships to prepare, connect, and diversify workers in the growing clean energy sectors.

OPPORTUNITIES

AIA Seattle Launches Comp Plan Programming in January
Seattle’s upcoming update of its Major Comprehensive Plan (2022-24) is arguably one of the most critical points in the city’s history. Required by the state to plan for how the city will accommodate growth over the next two decades, the Comprehensive Plan will address crucial questions around how we distribute opportunity, what our neighborhoods should look like, and what changes we need to make to create a more sustainable and resilient city.

AIA Seattle will participate in this process in two ways:

  1. As a group of citizens working to identify our collective priorities around growth, housing, and more and providing this feedback to the city.
  2. As an interpreter, educator, and resource for our members and the public to equip them with the tools they need to participate in the process.

We will use our skills and creativity as architects, design thinkers, and urban planners to educate our members and the public on the big ideas that are driving Seattle’s civic conversation about its future while providing opportunities to discover and debate key questions and policy choices. AIA’s Public Policy Board and Housing Task Force will be leading this effort; if you’d like to join in the event planning, whether that’s one event or more, we’d love to have you! Please let Kirsten know.

Seattle Design Commission Seeks Architect
The Seattle Design Commission is looking for an architect to join the commission for a two-year term beginning in March. Members do NOT have to reside in Seattle. The Commission reviews city-funded capital projects and projects that seek long-term or permanent use of a right of way. Commissioners typically serve 15 hours a month in meetings that occur during the day. Commissioners receive a small stipend for their time. Materials must be submitted by Nov. 29. More information is available here.

Seattle’s Design Review Boards Looking for Members
Seattle is looking for qualified candidates to fill 14 upcoming openings on the city’s Design Review Boards. Board members evaluate the design of new buildings based on citywide and neighborhood-specific design guidelines. The boards review large mixed-use developments, multifamily housing, and commercial projects. The volunteer positions will start on April 4, 2022. Read more about the specific positions open on each board, as well as qualifications and expectations, here. Application materials must be received by Dec. 15.

Associates: AIA National Associates Committee
AIA Washington Council is seeking candidates to serve as Washington’s state representative to the AIA National Associates Committee (NAC) for a 2-year term. The NAC represents associates in both traditional and non-traditional paths by providing information and leadership to AIA components. The NAC representative will be involved in addressing local and national issues and will help to shape new policies. The appointed representative will also become an AIA|WA Board Associate and ex-officio member of the AIA|WA board of directors for the duration of their NAC term. Applications are due November 30, 2021.  More information, including qualifications and how to apply, is available here.

EVENTS

AIA Seattle Housing Task Force
The Housing Task Force meets monthly via Zoom on the second Thursday of each month at noon. All are welcome. For info on how to access the meeting, contact Kirsten.

AIA Washington Council Pre-Legislative Session Events
AIA|WA is hosting three webinars the week before the state legislative session begins in January:

THANK YOU!

Thanks to AIA Seattle members who met with our reached out to elected officials in the last month!  Your advocacy makes a huge difference.

  • Carrie Anderson | Sen. Reuven Carlyle | building decarbonization
  • Geoff Anderson | Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley | building decarbonization
  • Kjell Anderson | Sen. Reuven Carlyle | building decarbonization
  • Jed Ballew | Sen. Liz Lovelett, Rep. Debra Lekanoff, Rep. Sharon Shewmake | building decarbonization
  • Adam Bettcher | Sen. Derek Stanford & Rep. Davina Duerr | building decarbonization
  • Julie Blazek | Sen. Liz Lovelett, Rep. Debra Lekanoff, Rep. Sharon Shewmake | building decarbonization
  • Carl Dominguez | Sen. Reuven Carlyle | building decarbonization
  • Kristen Dotson | King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer | C-PACER
  • Mike Fowler | Sen. Christine Rolfes | building decarbonization
  • Anjali Grant | Rep Steve Bergquist & Rep David Hackney | building decarbonization
  • Bert Gregory | Sen. Reuven Carlyle | building decarbonization
  • Chris Hellstern | Sen. Reuven Carlyle, Rep. Liz Berry, Rep. Noel Frame | building decarbonization
  • Nancy Henderson | Rep. Kirsten Harris-Talley | building decarbonization
  • Doug Ito | Rep. Cindy Ryu | building decarbonization/housing; letter to City of Shoreline Council | commercial energy code
  • Annalee Shum | King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn | C-PACER
  • Pepe Valle | Sen. Derek Stanford | building decarbonization

We’re sorry if we missed you!

We’d love to hear from you! To comment or for more information on these or any other topics, please contact:

Kirsten Smith
Manager of Policy & Advocacy
AIA Seattle & AIA Washington Council
206-957-1926 | kirstens@aiaseattle.temp312.kinsta.cloud

Posted in Advocacy, Public Policy Board

2021 Honor Award Winners

2021 Awards of Honor Fort Worden Building 305 and Loom House

SEATTLE, November 9, 2021 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Seattle hosted the 71st annual Honor Awards for Washington Architecture to celebrate excellence in design on November 9, 2021.

The distinguished jury included Katherine Darnstadt AIA, NOMA, LEED AP (Latent Design), Sharon Johnston FAIA (Johnston Marklee), and Helena Zambrano AIA, CPHC (Mahlum). Co-Chairs for the 2021 AIA Seattle Honor Awards were Ming-Lee Yuan AIA (Olson Kundig) and Catherine De Almeida, ASLA (UW Department of Landscape Architecture, College of Built Environments).

From 103 submittals, the jury chose 16 award winners from three categories – Built, Conceptual, and Research & Innovation. This was the fourth year of the Research & Innovation category, recognizing strides in research and innovation coming out of our region, elevating our communities’ awareness of advancement in architectural practice. This was the sixth year of the Energy in Design Award to commend projects that have made quantifiably significant strides in energy reduction while also maintaining the highest qualitative design caliber.

Across the spectrum of project types, the jury acknowledged the strong design culture represented in our region and were so impressed with the “high level of design excellence in projects that delight, inspire and enrich their communities all while having a positive impact on the environment.”

In addition to the main juried awards, it was the fourth year of the Young Voices Selection (YVS), a program with the aim to engage and elevate the voices of young designers through direct participation and representation in AIA Seattle’s Honor Awards for Washington Architecture. The three YVS panelists, Kayla Ford Assoc. AIA (Integrus Architecture), Alex Ianchenko Assoc. AIA (The Miller Hull Partnership), and Ryan Nungester Assoc. AIA (Environmental Works), selected 1 Built project as the Young Voices Selection award winner.

Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to our esteemed jury and Honor Awards Committee!

Visit the Online Gallery to learn more about the projects, as well as project team and collaborator information. Missed the live show? You can catch the replay here!

AWARD OF HONOR

Loom House by Miller Hull Partnership and Charlie Hellstern Interiors - Award of HonorThe Loom House by Miller Hull Partnership and Charlie Hellstern Interior Design is an extensive renovation of a classic mid-century home achieving full Living Building Challenge certification. The jury admired this particular residential example due to its thoughtful restrained approach to the existing building, seamlessly layering in extensive new technologies all while carefully integrating the home with the landscape.

 

Fort Worden Building 305 by Signal Architecture + Research - Award of HonorFort Worden Building 305 by Signal Architecture + Research is a historic military warehouse converted to a vibrant art center. The jury appreciated the dualities of this project: it has a precise technical approach to renovating a landmark building while also being an adaptable, open-ended, programmatically generous final result.

 

 

ENERGY IN DESIGN AWARD

Mukilteo Multimodal Ferry Terminal by LMN Architects is a transportation hub influenced by the Pacific Northwest’s native people. The jury appreciated this team’s thoughtful solution that skillfully and artfully incorporated civic needs with indigenous art, while also improving the health of the site.  They also greatly appreciated the use of extensive passive strategies to reduce the load on renewable energy sources.

AWARD OF MERIT

Rain Harvest Home by Robert Hutchison Architecture & JSa Arquitectura

HONORABLE MENTION

Clyde Hill Elementary School by Integrus Architecture
Constitution SHED by atelierjones
Duwamish Crossings by Wittman Estes 
Hayward Field by SRG Partnership
Othello Gardens by Wittman Estes 
Riverfront Pavilion by NAC Architecture & Berger Partnership
The Seattle Street Sink by The Clean Hands Collective
TOMO by Graypants
University Unitarian Church by Hacker Architects

YOUNG VOICES SELECTION

Fort Worden Building 305 by Signal Architecture + Research

To view all of the 2021 submissions, visit the:

Click here for online gallery

THANK YOU TO OUR 2021 HONOR AWARDS SPONSORS

Alaska Airlines | BetterBricks | Dovetail | Hoffman Construction Company | Sellen Construction
USI Insurance Services | AHBL  | Berger Partnership | Cary Kopczynski & Company, Inc.
Atlas Supply / Dowsil | Eakman Construction | FSi Engineers | GLY Construction, Inc.
Hargis Engineers, Inc. | Inform Interiors | KPFF Consulting Engineers | Lane Powell
Magnusson Klemencic Associates | Malsam Tsang Structural Engineering | Microsol Resources Corp.
PCL Construction Services, Inc. | PCS Structural Solutions | Quantum Consulting Engineers
RJM Precision Instruments | Schuchart | Skanska | Swenson Say Fagét | Thomas Fragnoli Construction Thornton Tomasetti | GRAY

Posted in For the Profession, For the Public, Honor Awards

AIA Seattle DRT + Sawhorse Revolution Collaboration

Danny Woo Garden Shed and Volunteers

AIA Seattle Diversity Roundtable (DRT) committee attracts, retains, and empowers individuals of underrepresented backgrounds in the profession of architecture through scholarship, community service, and activism.

Sawhorse Revolution is a non-profit that teams professional carpenters and architects with high-school-aged youth to design and build real structures for their own communities.

In late 2019, through ongoing talks Sawhorse Revolution established a partnership with InterIm CDA, a community organization under whose purview is Danny Woo Garden. The community was in need of a garden tool shed, which is where DRT & Sawhorse’s collective expertise came to play. The crucial part of the process was the involvement of WILD youth program since mentorship is of essence to their three organizations.

This design/build program was originally planned to be an in-person program; due to COVID_19, it was transformed into a virtual design program for Fall of 2020. Thirteen WILD youth, seven mentor architects (members of DRT), builders, educators, and InterimCDA staff, contributed to nine-week virtual design programming and mentorship. They learned about the Danny Woo community, the Chinatown-International District’s past and present architecture and design, and how to work in-and-for the community. Danny Woo Garden was started in 1975 as a community effort to revitalize the international district. With 1.5 acres of space in the heart of Seattle, Danny Woo Community Garden provides over 100 garden plots for elders of Asian descent, as well as 77 fruit trees, garden sheds, staircases, and more.

Finally, Sawhorse partnered with 13 youth to build the project in an in-city summer camp in 2021, led by Sawhorse Revolution staff and a team of dedicated volunteers and builders. On October 20th together with community members, the organizations held a public celebration as an official completion and opening of the project.

Photos courtesy of Lauren Greathouse.

Posted in Diversity Roundtable

2021 NWW Design Awards Winners Announced

Collage image of a waterfront, three-story mixed-use building, and a series of townhomes/congregate housing against farmland

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Northwest Washington Section hosted its virtual Design Awards on October 7 to celebrate excellence in Design.

The jury included Dr. Sharon Egretta Sutton, FAIA  (New York, Parsons School of Design), Rik Allen (Skagit County, Artist), and Tiffani Candler (Greater Seattle Area, Lydig Construction). The jury worked with AIA Northwest Washington members Dave Christensen AIA (Christensen Design Management) and Julie Blazek AIA (HKP Architects), who guided the Design Awards process.

From 17 submissions, the jury chose 12 projects for recognition with Citation, Merit, and Honor Awards across commercial, residential and unbuilt project designs. The submissions highlight the scope and quality of architectural design accomplished by the architects of our Northwest Washington region. While each of the projects had elements deserving commendation, the jury agreed that seven of the submissions are worthy of the Citation Award, three are worthy of the Merit Award, and two are worthy of the Honor Award.

Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to our esteemed jury and Design Awards committee!

Click here to view the full Design Awards “winner” presentation.
Click here to view the full recording of the awards ceremony and keynote lecture.
Click here to view the full event program.

Honor Awards

Skagit County Seasonal Farmworker Housing, Burlington, WA

view of farmland with large tractor tilling a field, with blue sky, clouds, and beige housing in background

 

The jurors applauded the team’s success in adapting a traditional house pattern to heavy-duty use, while still maintaining a home-like environment. They emphasized that this project exemplifies design that lifts the human spirit and respects the earth, and it did so while adhering to strict budgetary and regulatory constraints.  The jurors agreed this is a true measure of excellence.

 

 

RMC Architects
Neil McCarthy, Architect AIBC, AIA, RMC Architects, Principal-in-Charge
Tony Cava, RMC Architects, Project Manager
Office of Rural and Farmworker Housing, Development Consultant
2020 Engineering, Civil Engineer
Kingworks Structural Engineers, Structural Engineer
Harris Group, Mechanical Engineer
K Engineers, Inc., Electrical Engineer
MMLA, Landscape Architect
GeoTest Services, Inc., Geotechnical Engineer
The Woolsey Company, Cost Estimating
Faber Construction, General Contractor
Owner/Client: Housing Authority of Skagit County
Photo credit: © Benjamin Benschneider All Rights Reserved

Spring Street Landing, Friday Harbor, WA

View from water of a boat against stacked-rock harbor, with a three-story mixed-use building in gray-and-yellow, with green trees

 

The jury agreed that the special environmental considerations, the creation of a public space that can be utilized by all regardless of economic resources, and the efforts given towards sustainability made this project worthy of the Honor Award. Notable features include daylighting, access to transit, on-site bicycle and shower facilities, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and low-impact building materials.

 

 

RMC Architects
Brad Cornwell, AIA, RMC Architects, Principal-in-Charge
Jason Williard, AIA, RMC Architects, Project Manager
BC+J Architecture, Concept Design & Land Use Permits
San Juan Surveying, LLC, Land Surveyor
J.A. Brennan Associates, PLLC, Landscape Architect
2020 Engineering, Civil Engineering
PND Engineers Inc., Civil Engineering/Marine Bulkhead
Kingworks Structural Engineers, Structural Engineer
Rice Group LLC, Mechanical Engineer
K Engineers, Inc, Electrical Engineer
Bargreen Ellingson, Kitchen Equipment
Wellman & Zuck, General Contractor
Owner/Client: Port of Friday Harbor
Photo credit: ©Mark Bergsma, All Rights Reserved

Merit Awards

Little Colt Lane Residence, Winthrop, WA

Mid-day view of timber cabin on bluff high above a valley, with cars parked under port, with blue skies

 

Many elements of this residential project stood out to the jurors due to the mindfulness the team applied in developing a home that would not only be a beautiful home to live in, but also includes many environmental and longevity considerations.

 

 

 

Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects, Principal Architect
Matt Radach, Designs Northwest Architects, Project Designer
Equilibria, Structural Engineer
Impel Construction, General Contractor
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: Entreri Photography

Squalicum Mountain Residence, Bellingham, WA

Dusk view of a luxurious mansion with dramatic lights and a many-car garage with wraparound driveway

 

In this beautifully effective home, the jury appreciated the utilization of passive solar coupled with thermal mass wall system, Geothermal heat pump, photovoltaic solar, and a rain catchment system, all being commendable energy offsets for this large residence. Notable features include cantilevered roof canopies, patio deck and natural light.

 

 

 

Zervas Architects
Terry Brown, AIA, Zervas Architects, Principal-in-Charge
Kelsey Gates, Zervas Architects, Project Manager
Freeland & Associates, Civil Engineering
Kingworks Structural Engineers, Structural Engineering
Pearson Construction, General Contractor
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: Benjamin Benschneider, Photographer

Graphite Arts Center, Edmonds, WA

Dusk image of an arts center with jaunty, asymmetrical roofline, and glowing light from inside along a street

 

The jury found the design elements connecting the industrial and Mill town history of Edmonds to this contemporary community art space very compelling. They appreciated the adaptable, open spaces for multiple functions for art creation, exhibitions, classes and events, designed with community in mind.

 

 

 

 

Pelletier + Schaar
David Pelletier, Pelletier + Schaar LLC, Designer and Architect of Record
Scott Miller, Scott G Miller Design Services, Design Architect
Bill Lentz, Ryan GC, Contractor
Carolyn Jewett, CG Engineering, Structural Engineer
Jared Underbrink, CG Engineering, Civil Engineer
Lauren Ruskauff, Pelletier + Schaar LLC, Project Manager, Photographer
Johnny Liu, Number 7 Studio PLLC, Architect
Robert Gregg, Gregg Property Associates, LLC, Owner’s Representative
Michael Aliaga, GLUMAC, Mechanical Engineer
David Fox, RDH Building Sciences, Envelope Consultant
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: William Wright, Wright Photography

Citation Awards

1318 Chuckanut Residence, Bellingham, WA

Portrait shot of tall, single-family residence with prominent garages and driveway, intersecting deck and rooflines against steep natural incline

 

Elements of this residential project stood out to our jury because of the complex challenges and creative solutions that the architect faced to create a home that not only met the client’s requests but exceeded their expectations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christensen Design Management
Design Team: David Christensen AIA, Architect
Collaborators: Istvan Harsanyi, Associate Architect, COM
Ryan Long, PE, Structural Engineer, Jones & Associates
Douglas Campbell, PE, Civil Engineer
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: David Christensen

Liv House, Stanwood, WA

 

The jurors commend the overhanging roof that, along with the cement slab, will eliminate the need for air conditioning even as the planet warms, and the efficient interior space that accommodates guests with a wide range of physical abilities. The jurors emphasize the embrace of aging in place, health and wellbeing, and sustainability.

 

 

 

Pelletier + Schaar
David Pelletier, Pelletier + Schaar, Architect of Record
Frank Silvestri, Brothers Construction, Contractor
Dan Parent, Perco Engineering, Structural Engineer
Joseph Smeby, Omega Engineers, Civil Engineering
Moris Moreno, Moris Moreno Photography, Photographer
Owner/Client: David & Karen Pelletier
Photo credit: Moris Moreno

Woodbluff Lane Residence, Camano Island, WA

Sunset image with purple clouds on the fringes of of home entry - oxidized panels on one half, wood beams on the other, wood-and-metal overhang at center to demarcate entry

 

The jury responded to the layout design considerations this home offers for the retiring clients, and elderly extended family. The use of low maintenance materials, and access to all the amenities on a single floor layout are well considered.

 

 

 

 

Designs Northwest Architects
Dan Nelson, Designs Northwest Architects, Principal Architect
Wayne Lovegrove, Designs Northwest Architects, Project Designer
Equilibria, Structural Engineer
Impel Construction, General Contractor
Lankford and Associates, Landscape Architect
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: S. Brousseau Photography

700 Harris Avenue Building for Evil Bike, Bellingham, WA

Slope-roofed light-industrial buildingwith large windows, and prominent second-floor deck, marked by "EVIL" logo on window

 

The jury found this commercial space, at the edge of historic Fairhaven, to be a pleasing compromise of aesthetics and function for an industrial space. They responded to the natural light shafts into the central gathering spaces and offices, the open mezzanine, and ample windows that make this a uniquely pleasant PNW work place.

 

 

Christensen Design Management
Design Team: David Christensen AIA, Architect
Lyle Erlewine, Associate Architect
Collaborators: Muni Vimavala SE, PSM Engineers, Structural Engineer
Erin Russell, PE, Axe Engineering, Civil Engineer
Tom Rengstorf ASLA, Rengstorf Associates, Landscape Architect
Don Harman, Heritage Design, PEB Consultant
Dawson Construction, Inc., General Contractor
Owner/Client: Haskell Corporation
Photo credit: David Christensen

Children’s Museum of Skagit County, Burlington, WA

Dusk shot of stripmall with Children's Museum in playful font, lit from the inside

 

The jurors were impressed that the firm’s services during the museum’s relocation involved strategic planning for a move that kept the museum operational, and in redeploying the exhibits, the firm reused materials and reconfigured them for new site conditions.

 

 

 

HKP Architects
Julie Blazek, Christine Baldwin, and Omar Velasco, HKP Architects, Architect
Jordan Janicki, PE, DCG, Structural Engineer
Owner/Client: Children’s Museum of Skagit County
Photo credit: Mike Penney Photography

Fairhaven Tower, Bellingham, WA

Urban, mixed-use building clad in brick on corner lot with clocktower placed at center

 

Elements of this project stood out to the jury due to the nod they give to its historical surroundings while paying tribute to the original building that stood in its place over 100 years ago. The clock tower is one of the nods to the original occupant of its predecessor, The Fairhaven Hotel.

 

 

 

 

 

Zervas Architects
Terry Brown, AIA, Zervas Architects, Principal-in-Charge
Jon Butcher, Zervas Architects, Project Manager
Freeland & Associates, Civil Engineering
Kingworks Structural Engineers, Structural Engineering
RAM Construction, General Contractor
Owner/Client: Not Available
Photo credit: Benjamin Benschneider

Meditation Retreat Center, Stanwood, WA

Rendering of two-story wood building with wraparound second-floor porch and pitched roof, on a hill

 

The jurors appreciated that the architects have created a compact, two-story building that is accessible without stairs and has functions tucked within a dramatic hip roof. The jurors emphasized its conserving approach to site planning that was made possible by thoughtful programming.

 

 

 

HKP Architects
Brian Poppe, Austin Miles, and Spencer Olsufka, HKP Architects, Architect
DCG Inc., Structural Engineer
FSi Engineers, Mechanical Engineer
TFWB Engineers, Electrical Engineer
Greenbusch Group, Inc., Acoustical Engineering
Food Services Design, Clevenger Associates
DCW Cost Management, LLC., Cost Estimator
Owner/Client: Bhakti Marga North America
Photo credit: HKP Architects

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2021 DESIGN AWARDS SPONSORS

Grey text on white background: Title Sponsor - blue flag logo "F" Freeland & Associates Civil Engineers www.freelandengineering.com. Platinum: TFWB Engineers, fsi Engineers, Tiger Construction, Aldrich, Fisher Construction Group. GOLD: Dawson, Judd & Black Appliance, Kingworks Structural Engineers, Zervas Architecture | Interior Design, HKP Architects, GeoTest, The Greenbusch Group Inc, Lund Opsahl

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