After three jam-packed days filled with seminars, workshops, and connecting with our esteemed colleagues from around the nation, we are back from the 2015 AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in Atlanta invigorated with creative energy and design inspiration. Bill Bonstra, FAIA, David Haresign, FAIA and Project Architect Aaron Margolis, AIA attended on behalf of B|HA. They’ve shared 4 things they learned at the convention (by no means an all-inclusive list).

Make An Impact!

Impact was the convention theme for AIACon2015; programs and speakers focused on how architects can impact their communities locally and globally. This theme was driven home in a keynote speech delivered by Bill Clinton. “There is no question in ways large and small, those of you who are designing the built environment are going to have a big impact,” remarked the former president. Clinton urged us to design buildings that reduce greenhouse gases and our carbon footprint: “If I had another life to live, I’d be an architect, especially in this age of climate change.” Impact resonated loudly with B|HA where the ethos of community involvement and of green design are deeply rooted and practiced.

Vision Beyond Sight

On day two, the AIA launched a new phase of the #ilookup campaign when they released An Architect’s Story: Chris Downey.  Chris Downey, an architect who lost his sight after surgery to remove a brain tumor in 2008, described how his loss of sight completely transformed his urban experience.  Chris Downey reminded us that while he is without sight, he is not without vision. He challenged us to “look into unexpected places, and to see things and experience things that you might otherwise miss out on.” Chris’s perspective inspires and reminds us to explore the multisensory experiences that architecture provides.

City of Brutalism

With the #ilookup campaign in mind, we #lookedup in Atlanta and were struck by the vast network of skywalks and the brutalist concrete hotels and towers designed by John Portman. Walking into the dynamic and towering modern hotel atriums of Portman’s Marriott Marquis and Hyatt Regency, we couldn’t not look up and snap a picture or two. The striking architecture of the Peachtree Center district of downtown Atlanta offered a distinct and provocative context in which to spend three days considering building design and the urban condition.

Give Back + Create Cultural Value

Peter Eisenman, FAIA was honored at the convention for his contributions to the profession, specifically through architectural education.  The recipient of the 2015 Topaz Medallion for Excellence in Architectural Education, Peter Eisenman has practiced a long and successful career molding and shaping the next generation of architects. Eisenman’s commitment to the profession extends beyond education; he is regarded for his design, writings, research, and scholarship and is very much the public intellectual. Upon receiving his award, Eisenman’s remarks struck a chord: “The difference between heroes and star architects is important,” he said. “Stars are interested in power relationships. Heroes create cultural value. I hope the award you are giving me today salutes that difference.”