CONNECTIONYOUNG ARCHITECTS FORUM

CELEBRATING20

1991

2011

YEAR ANNIVERSARY

IMAGERY A VISUAL JOURNAL

2012 YOUNG ARCHITECTS AWARDAIA MID-ATLANTIC REGION

MARCH 2012

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03Disclaimer: This publication is created by Young Architect members of the American Institute of Architects. Views expressed in this publication are solely those of the authors.

Thanks to YAF Connection Sponsor: AIA TRUST

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CONTENT

04 NEWSYAF News

YAF programs at AIA Grassroots Leadership Conference and AIA National Convention 06 EDITOR'S NOTE

ImageryDeepika Padam, AIA talks of the increasing distance of emerging architects from prose09 FEATURE

2012 AIA Institute Honors for Young Architects

14 IMAGERYA Visual Journal

Adam Mead, RAAaron Pilat, RA

Amaya LabradorAmy Baker, RA

Christopher Costanza, AIAChristina Crespo, Associate AIA

Daniel Ebuehi, Associate AIADaniel Toole, Associate AIA

David Ways, AIAEric Beron, AIA

Ernie Knoche, AIAJeff Suzda

Joshua Brueggeman, AIAJulie Babin, AIA

Kate JoyceKeith Johnson

Kimberly GerberMerlin Maley, AIA

Michael Johanning, AIARebekah Negrete

Rhet Fiskness, AIASean Stadler, AIA

73 EVENTNational Convention PreviewJon Penndorf, AIA shares the plans for 2012 AIA national convention at Washinton, DC74 EVENT

Architecture UncensoredPhil Wessell, AIA talks of the lecture series organized by AIA|DC Emerging Architects

committee 75 LEADERSHIP2011 AIA|DC Emerging Architect AwardPhil Wessell, AIA shares the story of his architecture journey from childhood to winning the award76 MENTORSHIP

Experiments with Mentorship ModelsAnn Dorough talks of AIA Potomac Valley's

mentorship programs 77 MENTORSHIPInspire. Connect. Evolve. (I.C.E.)Marlan Ky, Associate AIA gives details of AIA|DC's mentorship program

FEATURING MID-

ATLANTIC REGION

Map Showing Locations of Article Contibutors for this Issue. US Map Source: www.cardhouse.com

GRASSROOTS + CONVENTION

YAF PROGRAMS

12 LEADERSHIPArchitecture to Army to ArchitectureMajor Gregory Taylor, AIA shares his story of serving in the US Army and getting his architecture license

On the CoverBackground Image by Sean Stadler, AIA. Manipulated by Deepika Padam, AIA

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News

STAY CONNECTED

YAF at AIAYAF's Home webpage. www.aia.org/yaf

AIA ArchiblogThis blog provides YAF-related news in real time. Get involved in the discussion! www.blog.aia.org/yaf

YAF KnowledgeNetA knowledge resource for awards, announcements, podcasts, blogs, and valuable articles. The archives of YAF Connection and the Young Architect Award winners' entries... This resource has it all!www.network.aia.org/AIA/YoungArchitectsForum

Architect’s Knowledge ResourceThe Architect's Knowledge Resource connects AIA members and others to the most current information on architecture, including research, best practices, product reviews, ratings, image banks, trends, and more. It's your place to find solutions, share your expertise, and connnect with colleagues. www.aia.org/akr

YAF on LinkedInStay connected with the YAF leadership and all the young architects you meet at the convention, and get involved in group discussions.www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=2066423

YAF on TwitterFollow YAF on Twitter @AIAYAF

YAF on FacebookBecome a Fan of AIA Young Architects Forum on Facebook.

Know Someone Who’s Not Getting The YAF Connection?Don’t let them be out of the loop any longer. It’s easy for AIA members to sign up. Update your AIA member profile and add the Young Architects Forum under “Your Knowledge Communities.”

�� Go to www.aia.org and sign in.�� Click on “For Members” link next to the AIA logo on top.�� Click on “Edit your personal information” on the left side

under AIA members tab.�� Click “Your knowledge communities” under Your Account

on the left�� Add YAF.

CALL FOR ARTICLESWould you like to submit articles for inclusion in an upcoming issue?Contact the editor at deepika@belarquitexture.com.

2012 AIA NATIONAL CONVENTION,

WASHINGTON DC - YAF PROGRAMS

DURING THEIR FIRST DECADE OF SUCCESS - YOUNG

ARCHITECTS MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN OUR FIRMS, OUR

COMMUNITIES, AND OUR PROFESSION

Thursday, May 17, 2:00 - 3:30 pm

Program SummaryThe Young Architect Award recognizes leadership in Architects who have been licensed fewer than 10 years. This program will be a presentation and panel discussion featuring the recipients of the 2012 Young Architects Award. These young Architects have been recognized for their significant contributions in design, community and civic leadership, professional involvement, and in education. Join us for a discussion with this year’s recipients about their careers and their work and discover how you can begin to shape your own career path through mentoring, leadership, and fellowship activities.

LEADERSHIP FORUM: PROFILES OF ARCHITECT LEADERS

IN THE PROFESSION AND OUR COMMUNITIES

Friday, May 18, 4:00 - 5:30 pm

Program ConceptThis program will be an informal ‘Fireside Chat’ presentation with three architect/leaders sharing stories about their path to becoming recognized leaders in the profession and in their communities.

Abstract"Leadership skills are critical for architects in their professional and civic life. This program will consist of three leadership case study presentations followed by a moderated panel discussion. The panelists represent a diverse cross section of professional, civic/community, and academic leaders from around the country. Each will discuss their experiences and how leadership has shaped their successful careers. These discussions will stress the importance of cultivating leadership skills and the value of mentoring future leaders.

Attendees of all ages and experience levels will learn how to develop leadership skills, identify leadership opportunities and build confidence to begin taking on leadership roles.

This program is being developed in collaboration between the Young Architects Forum and the AIA Center for Civic Leadership."

PresentersDoug Steidl, FAIAJohn Pederson, AIARep. Cheri Gerou, FAIA Matthew Dumich, AIA (moderator)

YAF 20 SUMMITAt the AIA Grassroots Conference of 2012, YAF will host the YAF 20 Summit to commemorate the 20 year anniversary and to set the goals for the upcoming years. The participants will include invited COF and AIA members, Young Architect Regional Directors, and YAF Advisory Committee (AdCom). Complete the survey leading up to the summit and you might win a trip to join the Summit in Washington DC! See details on page 20.

Brief SummaryThis year the Young Architects Forum celebrates 20-years of serving Emerging Professionals at the development stages of their careers. In recognition of this milestone, leaders from all levels of the Architectural profession will gather for the YAF20 Summit to examine issues effecting young Architects today. Join us at Grassroots Conference for an interactive presentation detailing the outcomes identified during the YAF20 Summit. Nurturing Emerging Professionals is key to the long term future of the profession. Learn strategies for communicating and engaging Emerging Professionals in your component.

Learning Objectives1. Identify the importance of support for Emerging Professionals and how local components have developed programs to provide this support.2. Learn about successful programs being implemented around the country to strengthen and support Emerging Professionals as they establish themselves in their careers.3. Compare and contrast how Emerging Professionals view the challenges for the future.4. Discover how to communicate and engage with Emerging Professionals in your component.

Full Program Abstract“Young Architects” are defined as those licensed ten years or

less. This demographic consists of more than 40% of all licensed, AIA members. This year the YAF celebrates its 20th anniversary.

In recognition of this milestone, the YAF Advisory Committee has organized the YAF 20 Summit, a Grassroots preconference session, to bring together leaders from all levels of the Architectural profession to reflect, learn and celebrate from 20 years of achievements of the YAF. The Summit will serve as a forum for attendees to engage in a dialogue about issues facing young Architects and the future of the profession. Some of the top issues include: mentoring, leadership, career advancement, work/life balance, public awareness and relevance of licensed Architects, collaboration and integrated practice, and the long term effects of the poor economy.

Our proposed Grassroots session will feature select YAF leaders who participated in the YAF 20 Summit. We will outline the top issues affecting young Architects and other key outcomes from the Summit. The presenters will then discuss best practices for support of young Architects and other Emerging Professionals. We will also provide examples of programming and strategies for communicating and engaging Emerging Professionals at the local components. The dialog will continue with an interactive discussion between a moderator, presenters, and the audience.

2012 AIA GRASSROOTS LEADERSHIP

CONFERENCE, WASHINGTON DC- YAF PROGRAM

EMERGING PROFESSIONALS FORUM: LESSONS FROM

THE YAF 20 SUMMIT

Friday, March 9, 2012, 1:45 - 3:15 pm

Program ConceptJoin us for an interactive presentation detailing the outcomes identified during the YAF20 Summit. We will outline the top issues affecting young Architects and other key outcomes from the Summit. The dialog will continue with an interactive discussion between a moderator, presenters, and the audience.

PresentersMatt Dumich, AIADeepika Padam, AIAJason Pierce, AIAJennifer Workman, AIA

THEMES FOR 2012 YAF CONNECTIONIssue 10.01 January Scale in ArchitectureIssue 10.02 March ImageryIssue 10.03 May Design and ExpressionIssue 10.04 July Neighborhood ArchitectureIssue 10.05 September TravelIssue 10.06 November Green Building

2011 AIA YOUNG ARCHITECTS AWARD BOOK

AVAILABLE TO PURCHASEYAF has published a book as a compilation of the work and achievements of this year's AIA Young Architects Award winners. To order your copy, visit lulu.com and search "AIA 2011 Young Architects Award", or go to this link:www.lulu.com/content/paperback-book/aia-2011-young-architects-award/10503669

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By Deepika Padam, AIA

Deepika Padam, AIA, LEED AP bd+c is the Communications Advisor for the National AIA Young Architects Forum. Brought up in India and a graduate of University of Michigan, she is a Senior Designer and Project Manager with Heller Manus Architects based in San Francisco, California.

I WOULDN’T BEGIN by stating the obvious that architects are

visual people. Duh! It comes as no surprise that when the call for

submissions went out for submitting imagery for inclusion in this

issue of YAF Connection, the response was jaw-dropping. I received

numerous images from all over the country. Included on the

following pages are some of the unique pieces I received. Although

I received more photographs than artwork, the point is made.

Architects love to travel, and have a creative outlook to wherever

they go or whatever they do. They like to photograph and draw lot

more than write or read. Generally speaking, of course.

Although this issue is longer than usual, there are fewer

written words. This is in a way an experiment in response to some

of the reader comments I’ve received in the recent past. The up and

coming generation of architects is getting so visual, that reading

140 characters is a stretch. When I am sitting on Twitter, unless my

eye catches a keyword, I don’t bother to read 140 characters. I am

sure you can relate to it. There is too much to read already and no

time to read it all! The blogging world is getting further away from

prose everyday. It is so far from the blogs of the yesteryears that

some of the images bloggers post don’t have any associated title or

a tag cloud. The image stands by itself. Are we headed in the right

direction?

They say designers think in two dimensions, while an architect

thinks in three dimensions. Let us not get into the fourth or fifth

dimension discussion! Does it really matter? At the end of the day,

we are looking for a respite from our daily routines. When I read the

leadership profile of the AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award winner

in this issue, I related to it in a way... I ended up in architecture

while I was on track to become a doctor. Architecture just seemed

so much easier than my medical studies. At the time. I’ve always

enjoyed drawing, but architecture allowed me to do it for a living.

Well… not anymore. I rarely get to draw now, and find respite in my

paintings… when I can find time for it. Isn’t that what has happened

to many of us? We became architects so we could create. How

many of us truly get to do it though… therein comes the love for

photography and art that many of us share. You’d appreciate some

of the pieces to your taste included in this issue. I am curious to learn

the results of the experiment – would you rather see more visual

journals? The articles included in this bi-monthly publication are

meant to benefit the young architects. Do you find them beneficial?

Do you read them? Talk to me.

We started a discussion in the previous issue of YAF Connection

of January 2012 about Un-Competition being held at Chicago. In the

following issue of June 2012, we will be revealing the results of it

along the winning entries for a few other design competitions. The

reason I bring it up is because Marc Teer brought up a very important

question about the value of design competitions. If you didn’t see the

story, I’d encourage you to go back to read it. All our older editions

are saved here: http://network.aia.org/YoungArchitectsForum/Home/

CONNECTIONArchives. Design competitions are in a way related to

the concept of imagery. An integral part of design is the expression

of it. Some do it through sketches, while increasingly it has become a

software based platform. If you missed the discussion, check out the

article about "Is Drawing Dead" published in Architectural Record:

http://archrecord.construction.com/news/2012/02/Yale-Symposium-

Explores-Drawing.asp.

Whether we are expressing ourselves with the images of

our travels or renderings of our design interventions, expression

is personal, unique, and instructive. Enjoy this issue with visual

expressions of our contributors and check out the next issue with

design expressions through competitions. Don’t forget to share your

expressions with us.

Editor's Note

IMAGERY

Bow and Arrows, 2010. www.belarquitexture.com

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TIMOTHY C. BICKNELL, AIA

AECOMTimothy Bicknell is an award winning architect whose incredible

dedication to both community and craft has truly distinguished his

career.

Feature

2012 AIA INSTITUTE HONORS

FOR YOUNG ARCHITECTS

The Young Architects Award is given to individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession in an early stage of their architectural career. This year 13 young architects received this honor.

JAMES M. EVANS, AIA

COLLABORATIVE DESIGNWORKSIn a relatively short time, Jim has joined an elite group of Texas

architects who demonstrate nationally recognized design excellence

with a fundamental commitment to environmental stewardship.

BRIAN CAVANAUGH, AIA

ARCHITECTURE BUILDING CULTURE LLCOver Brian Cavanaugh’s 16 year career, he has demonstrated a

unique commitment to the practice of architecture and playing a

critical leadership role in his community.

SHARI G. GRANT, AIA

ARCHITECTURAL PRESENCEShari’s nontraditional career as architect, engineer and artist is

focused on developing simple, functional, and yet beautiful designs

using a personal approach and hand sketches.

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2012 AIA YOUNG ARCHITECTS AWARD JURY

2011 Chancellor:Chester A. Widom, FAIA

Los Angeles, CA

2011 Vice Chancellor:Norman L. Koonce, FAIA

McLean, VA

2011 Bursar:William J. Stanley, FAIA

Stanley Love-Stanley, PC

Atlanta, GA

Secretary:Ronald L. Skaggs, FAIA, FACHA

HKS, Inc.

Dallas, TX

2012 Incoming Bursar:Albert W. Rubeling, FAIA

Rubeling & Associates, Inc.

Towson, MD

This announcement was previously published by the American Institute of Architects. For more information

on the award and the award recipients, visit www.aia.org/practicing/awards/2012/young-architects

STUART MAGRUDER, AIA

STUDIO NOVA A ARCHITECTS, INC.Stuart's aesthetic tends toward California minimalism. Simplicity is

favored over complexity; an understated detail is preferred over a

flashy one.

JONATHAN PENNDORF, AIA

PERKINS + WILLJon has consistently and enthusiastically contributed to improving

the practice of architecture for young architects in Washington DC

and beyond. He founded the Emerging Architects Committee of the

Chapter, a highly successful outreach program for young members.

ADAM PALMER, AIA

SCHMIDT ASSOCIATES, INC.Adam Palmer, AIA, is a passionate servant leader, guiding young

people and building connections through his Young Architects

Forum service. He has distinguished himself as an energetic liaison,

inspiring young people to stay connected.

BRAD TOMECEK, AIA

STUDIO H:TBrad Tomecek, AIA believes that community Involvement, Education

& Outreach are integral with his passion for work.

MICHAEL J. HANRAHAN, AIA

CLARKE CATON HINTZMichael J. Hanrahan, AIA has been a key member of Clarke Caton

Hintz for over fifteen years.

THOMAS JACOBS, AIA

KRUECK + SEXTON ARCHITECTSThomas Jacobs has been contributing to our built environment

throughout his 16 year career in ways that define leadership for our

next generation of Architects. He has been an integral part in the

creation of some of the best buildings in Chicago and beyond.

MICHAEL HALFLANTS, AIA

HALFLANTS + PICHETTEMichael Halflants is a principal of Halflants + Pichette Architects in

Sarasota and a tenured professor at the University of South Florida.

KATIE M. HARMS, AIA

OPN ARCHITECTSDedication, passion, and thoughtful creativity are words that

describe Katie M. Harms, AIA. Katie’s dedication is evident in many

of the professional positions she has held both in the AIA and the

community at large.

HAO KO, AIA

GENSLERHao Ko brings his considerable talents to his role as Design Director

for Gensler’s San Francisco Architecture studio. His portfolio includes

diverse architecture and master planning work for corporate,

academic and institutional clients in the US and Asia.

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St. Vitus's Cathedral at Prague Castle

exercise called Bright Star. These buildings are simply designed with

no ornamentation or exterior veneer treatments like the ones in the

U.S. We refer to these structures as being ‘field expedient’ or quickly

constructed for the units who will use them.

Did the experience of pursuing your license through many

years of civilian and military work impact your perspective on the

value of an architecture license?

I decided to enroll in the IDP program in 1993 at the urging of

an architect I was working with at a retail firm in Dallas and received

my license in April 2010. I do see the value in becoming an architect

especially in the title and the perception that you have taken your

career to the next level of professionalism. I know that the licensing

process is not for everyone. It is a personal decision. My advice to

those that never get licensed and work their whole careers in the

profession is to really evaluate what they want to be in later in

their careers. My belief is that after licensure you can move faster

into project management and even upper level management and

eventually start your own practice.

What are you working on currently?

I am actually currently in between positions and actively

looking for a great career opportunity with an established A&E

firm. I am also pursuing enrollment in a M.A. in Sustainability and

Development in a nearby private university and I have completed

about 3 years of CEU courses in architectural related coursework

while deployed and back at home. Also, I completed a course in BIM

software that was offered as part of my severance package from the

last firm I worked at.

How has your experience in architecture and the military

shaped your outlook?

I am fortunate to have been able to serve in the military for

going on 22 years and also have a civilian career as an architect.

The background and experience which I have gained in both areas

have complemented one another and have made me a better

professional. I have received the most satisfaction from the people

I have worked with side by side in the architecture industry and also

in the military.

By Major Gregory J. Taylor, AIA

Major Gregory J. Taylor, AIA became a licensed architect in Texas following experience working in architecture and serving in the U.S. military.

Leadership

ARCH ITECTURE TO ARMY

TO ARCH ITECTURE

I ATTENDED TEXAS A&M University in the mid ‘80s and

received my Bachelor of Environmental Design degree from the

college. I was also a member of Texas A&M’s Corps of Cadets and

upon graduation was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.

S. Army Reserves in the Corps of Engineers. I held civilian jobs as an

intern with several architecture firms in the Dallas area over a period

of almost 20 years before getting licensed. This experience included

retail, educational, institutional, federal and religious architecture

while working in the Intern Development Program. Also, I have held

numerous positions throughout the Army Reserves as a Platoon

Leader, Executive Officer, Company Commander, Staff Officer and

Executive Officer of an Engineer Facilities Detachment which I

currently have. After two deployments to Afghanistan in 2005 and

then in 2010, I am now a Major and a veteran. I recently was selected

for Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Did your time in the military provide opportunities related

to architecture?

Yes, it most definitely helped to broaden my overall experience

in how buildings and the built environment are constructed and

the different styles of architecture throughout Europe and the U.S.

I have traveled to many areas of the world as part of my military

training and deployment. Most recently I traveled to Europe – Rome,

Prague, and Dusseldorf for my R&R break during my last deployment

in 2010. I spent about four days in each city and was able to take in

many of the major sites and take a lot of photographs. Also, while

deployed to Afghanistan my team supervised and helped construct

a fire station on a coalition base in Afghanistan.

How would you describe the design and construction process

for projects located in a war zone?

The projects in war zones are vastly different from projects

of the same type in the U.S. The projects are built within a

shorter period of time and are constructed with materials that

are readily accessible in that region. For example, in Egypt I was

Construction Officer of a shower-latrine building near Alexandria

which was built of CMU block and was used as a staging area for

armor forces to take showers while participating in a large military

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ADAM MEAD, RAAdam Mead is an architect, photographer, writer who lives and works in New York City. All of his imagery was wholly created within the iPhone and

various associated applications. Several of his images have been featured on www.pixelexhibition.com and in the site's bi-annual publication Pixels,

which is dedicated to iPhone Photography.

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ADAM MEAD, RA YAFCONNECTION10.02

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AARON PILAT, RAI lived in Rome for a year and published a book about the City's lessons and strategies for reuse. I have hundreds of sketches and drawings. But, my

most memorable and favorite drawings have been the ones that capture the overall experience, not just the architecture. This sketch documents

one of the best meals I have ever experienced.

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AMAYA LABRADORGraphic art done while at UPR-Architecture

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AMY BAKER, RAAlexandria YAF

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AMY BAKER, RAPrague YAF

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CHRISTOPHER COSTANZA, AIAZero-energy house built based on a small lego model YAF

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CRISTINA CRESPO, ASSOC. AIACristina Crespo is an Intermediate Architect with 5 years of experience

in the design field. While acquiring her professional BArch in Puerto

Rico she had the opportunity of getting involved in various AIAS

competitions, for which she won an honor award, and getting featured

in both local and national publications. She decided to make the move

to Washington DC on 2008 to join Gensler. Since then, she has been

actively involved in public outreach programs and local-community

activities, such as mentoring for the NBM, Architecture in the Schools,

CAN-struction, WE*care and Habitat for Humanity. Cristina developed

a strong interest in sustainability while working in Gensler and decided

to pursue graduate studies in this field. She received a MSc Degree in

Sustainable Environmental Design from the Architectural Association in

London in 2010 and returned to Gensler to collaborate with an emerging

sustainability studio that the firm had just launched. She continues to

serve as a leader in her studio, firm and local community. Cristina enjoys

travelling, photography, painting and anything that stimulates her

creativity. Her artwork is pure reflection of her personal background,

architectural interests and passion for life.

Pictured: Madrid Mosaic

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CRISTINA CRESPO, ASSOC. AIABoston Musgo YAF

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CRISTINA CRESPO, ASSOCIATE AIACuba Vecindad

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DANIEL EBUEHI, ASSOC. AIA

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DANIEL TOOLE, ASSOCIATE AIADaniel Toole, Associate AIA, LEED AP BD+C is a designer with Perkins + Will

who enjoys research through travel and investigation - recently studying

alleyway urbanism throughout the U.S., Japan, and Australia.

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DAVID WAYS, AIACactus: University of Arkansas, School of Architecture Design Studio study

using graphite on paper.

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ERIC BERON, AIAEric serves as a Principal and Office Leader for DLR Group,

a nationally recognized, full-service design firm with

offices nationwide. His professional experience centers

on Educational Facility Design and project management,

having provided design services for numerous school

districts throughout Iowa. In addition to his architectural

career, Eric also enjoys a passion for photography.

Pictured: NOMADE: The lattice-like sculpture by Jaume

Plensa allows viewers to see through the sculpture and

enjoy a new perspective of its environment. This piece is

located at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in

downtown Des Moines, IA.

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ERIC BERON, AIAT8: This dynamic steel sculpture by Mark di Suvero is located at the

John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, IA.

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ERNIE KNOCHE, AIADubrovnik

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JEFF SUZDAJeff is an American jazz saxophonist living and working in Paris, France. He has become fascinated with photography since moving to Europe in

2008 and began integrating photographs into his music recently to create multi-disciplinary works.

Pictured: Independent Venice (4th of July in Venice, Italy) - Jeff and his partner were walking and trying to get lost in Venice, Italy when they

discovered a restaurant that still remains the BEST Italian food either of them has eaten. It was a very hot 4th of July, and a warm plate of possibly

the world's best pasta followed by a cool glass of house wine that made the moment so special.

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JOSHUA BRUEGGEMAN, AIAJoshua Brueggeman graduated from Iowa State University in 2002. He is

licensed in Minnesota and Iowa. He enjoys photography, art, and outdoor

sports. Joshua and his wife take volunteer photography for the historic

Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. They also like to photograph their

family, friends, and pets whenever they get the chance. They consider

photography and art a great way to share their view of life with the world.

Everyone can experience something different in a picture.

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JOSHUA BRUEGGEMAN, AIA YAFCONNECTION10.02

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JULIE BABIN, AIAJulie is a Project Manager at studioWTA l Wayne Troyer Architects, a collaborative design firm in New Orleans. Julie graduated from Tulane University

as the recipient of the John William Lawrence Memorial Medal for Design Excellence. In 2010 Julie and her colleague, Ross Karsen, were awarded

first place by the Louisiana Chapter of the USGBC Natural Talent Design Competition for their affordable and sustainable housing submission

“Extending Roots".

Pictured: Left top to bottom - Barcelona Pavilion, Displaced. Right - Olympic Discipline

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JULIE BABIN, AIA

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KATE JOYCEKate Joyce is from Santa Fe, NM, currently based in Chicago, IL. Her work is influenced by documentary processes, architecture, literature, the

transformative presence of light and the goemetry of space. To view more work or to be in touch with Kate, visit www.kate-joyce.com.

Pictured: Left to right - Landscape Study / Rural Plains, I-29, South Dakota; Goose Island, Chicago; Landscape Study / Urban Lakeside, Chicago

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KEITH JOHNSONThree passions that Keith holds close to his heart are: architecture, travel, and

photography. Throughout five rigorous years of his architectural education,

he explored notions of concept and form, among others, giving him an eye

for composition that he brings into his photographs. He continues to explore

these ideas on a daily basis working in an architectural firm. Upon graduating,

he backpacked across Europe discovering the cultures of eight different

countries. He documented his entire trip through photographs, as he believes

every image tells a story. This eye‐opening trip was truly what has inspired him

to explore photography. He considers photography as his escape from the

daily grind of routine and regularity. It is his goal in life to travel to a new place

each year documenting his experience through photographs that capture the

attention of the public viewer. Visit www.kejphotos.com for more images.

Pictured: Cliffside Village - Positano, Italy

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KEITH JOHNSONDog Overlooking Canal - Bruges, Belgium

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KEITH JOHNSONOrnamental Stair - Philadelphia, PA

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KIMBERLY GERBERValencia

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KIMBERLY GERBERWeathered Door

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MERLIN MALEY, AIAIreland YAF

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MERLIN MALEY, AIAIreland YAF

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MICHAEL JOHANNING, AIAMichael Johanning is an Architect and amateur photographer in Portland, Maine. He is interested in images of the built environment showing

nature's slow process of reclaiming itself.

Pictured: Willard Beach, South Portland, Maine

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REBEKAH NEGRETE YAFCONNECTION10.02

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RHET FISKNESS, AIAThis photo was taken during the last week of March, 2011 after a spring storm dumped 8” of fresh snow in downtown Fargo, ND. The vibrant colors

of the peacock feathers caught Rhet's attention while commuting home from work. He spent the remainder of the evening enjoying the sun’s

warmth and photographing the art and architecture of downtown Fargo.

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SEAN STADLER, AIA YAFCONNECTION10.02

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Featuring

A IA M ID -ATL ANT IC REG ION

By Jon Penndorf, AIA

Jon Penndorf, AIA, LEED BD+C is a Project Manager and the Sustainability Leader at the DC office of Perkins+Will. He is the current President of AIA|DC, and the immediate past YAF Regional Director for the Mid-Atlantic Region.

Event

NAT IONAL CONVENT ION

PREV IEW

YAFCONNECTION10.02

Platinum certification through the U.S. Green Building Council. We

have tours that allow you to experience the renaissance of some

of our vibrant neighborhoods, including Penn Quarter, Adams

Morgan, and Georgetown. Our Host Chapter Party will take over

the Newseum for an evening that promises great food, camaraderie,

entertainment, and wonderful views of the National Mall.

There are a number of education sessions either provided by or of interest to Young Architects. The YAF is officially presenting two sessions - “Leadership Forum: Profiles of Architect Leaders in the profession and our communities” and “During Their First Decade of Success - Young Architects Making a Difference in Our Firms, Our Communities, and Our Profession”. There will be plenty of time for networking with other emerging professionals from around the country, including the annual NAC/YAF Reception.

If you need a break from architecture for a few hours, we’ve

got some fun events scheduled that you can sign up for with your

registration that will give you a different vantage point on our fair

city. You can tour the National Zoo, take in a Washington Nationals

game, taste the flavors of some local vineyards, and even try

your hand (both hands, and legs really) on a flying trapeze. I can

personally vouch for all four of those activities and any or all would

complement the education and inspiration you’ll take away from

the 2012 AIA National Convention.

I hope to see you in May!

FOR A FEW days this May, Washington, DC will be home to

thousands of architects, designers, and allied professionals as our

city hosts the 2012 AIA National Convention. As the President of

AIA|DC (the Host Chapter), I would like to personally invite you to

spend a few days in our nation’s capital and experience all the city

has to offer as DC shows just how “Design Connects.”

Washington, DC was designed in 1793 by Pierre L’Enfant using a

simple orthogonal grid made slightly less simple by adding diagonal

streets and traffic circles. While it may take a day or so to master our

grid and the quadrants that also identify our city, the design sets up

long, framed views of major buildings and public art. Even hundreds

of years ago, DC showed how design can facilitate connections.

Our chapter has been working with AIA National for over a year

to plan a Convention that provides inspiring education opportunities

and showcases the richness and variety of Washington, DC. We are

the home to the federal government, and often some people think

that’s all there is to experience, and perhaps some monuments and

museums too. Our city is so much more than that, it is a vibrant,

pedestrian and bicycle-friendly city of over 600,000 residents.

We’ve got great architecture that spans centuries – from Mt. Vernon

just across the river in Virginia to the new U.S. Institute of Peace.

DC has great restaurants and nightlife, with new eateries opening

nearly every week over the course of the last year. Our theatre scene

is energetic and second only to New York in terms of the number of

houses that produce and perform original works. Add in multiple

professional sports teams, hundreds of acres of parkland, and

comprehensive public transportation and you’ve got a city that is

steeped in tradition, kinetic and engaging all at the same time.

DC is home to marvelous examples of classical architecture as

well as unique contemporary spaces. We have 130 tours planned

in and around Washington that will help you experience these

examples. You will have opportunities to visit structures that have

played key roles in our nation’s history, like Mt. Vernon, Monticello,

and the Library of Congress. There are tours available highlighting

the latest trends in educational space design and others showcasing

multiple commercial interiors projects that have obtained LEEDNewseum in Washington, DC. Image Credit: James P. Blair/Newseum

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By Phil Wessell, AIA

Phil Wessell, AIA, LEED AP is an architect in the Washington DC office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Since 2010 he has served on the Board of Directors for the Washington D.C. Chapter of the AIA and is the recipient of the 2011 AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award.

Event

ARCH ITECTURE

UNCENSORED

were willing to be brutally honest about their businesses and the

lessons they had learned without sugarcoating anything. We had

three speakers in the 2009 series who had started their own firms,

and one speaker who specialized in insurance and risk management

for design professionals. It was obvious from the packed house

at our first lecture that those of us on the committee weren’t the

only ones who wanted to learn more about the business side of the

profession, and the speakers provided us with the "uncensored"

insight we were hoping for.

Since the first lecture in 2009, the “Architecture Uncensored”

series has continued successfully in 2010 and 2011. The range of

topics has broadened with themes such as “Oh The Places You’ll

Go” focusing on the many different paths one can take with an

education in architecture, and “Designing Your Career” focusing

on professional and career development strategies for young

professionals. Through all of the lectures, we have worked hard

to remain focused on addressing those topics and issues that are

most often over looked by both firms and the AIA when reaching

out to young professionals. Between the jam packed curricula at

most architecture schools and the tight budgets and schedules

at most firms, many young professionals feel like they’re missing

something in their education. Historically, as young architects rose up the ranks to become firm leaders, it was expected that they would pick up the management and business skills needed along the way through on the job training and mentoring. Very little value has been placed on additional business or management education in many firms in the past. However, as the business and legal world in which we all practice becomes more complex, emerging professionals and seasoned architects alike are starting to question if the "figure it out as you go" approach is really the best. To the

extent that the AIA|DC Emerging Architect's Committee and the

"Architecture Uncensored" lecture series can help fulfill the desire

of young professionals to learn about and understand the business

and management side of the profession, we plan to continue to do

so. The fourth year of the series is being planned right now, and will

take place in the fall of 2012.

WHEN “ARCHITECTURE UNCENSORED” was first suggested

as the title for a lecture series focused on young architects, I must

admit I was a bit skeptical. It didn’t exactly conjure up the most

“professional” of images for a lecture series sponsored and organized

by a group of young, emerging professionals. However, the more

we all talked about what we wanted the series to accomplish, the

more fitting the title seemed. “Architecture Uncensored” was started

in 2009 by a group of us who were serving on AIA|DC’s Emerging

Architects' Committee, and grew out of a realization that there is a

large gap between the skills that we have all been taught in school

and the skills needed to run a successful architecture practice.

Issues related to business, management, finance, risk

management, and the law are rarely discussed in depth with young

professionals at most firms; however, an understanding of these

issues is critical in the success of any practice. In the fall of 2008

as we began to think about creating a lecture series, there were a

lot of young professionals who had been impacted by the faltering

economy and who were looking around trying to figure out what

their options were. Since few, if any, established firms were hiring, the

focus of the series the first year was on starting your own firm. This is

where the “uncensored” part came into play: in order for the lectures

to be valuable to emerging professionals, we needed speakers who

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By Phil Wessell, AIA

Phil Wessell, AIA, LEED AP is an architect in the Washington DC office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Since 2010 he has served on the Board of Directors for the Washington D.C. Chapter of the AIA and is the recipient of the 2011 AIA|DC Emerging Architect Award.

Leadership

2011 A IA |DC EMERG ING

ARCH ITECT AWARD W INNER

two years before passing my responsibilities on as I prepared to

graduate. My time with the AIAS introduced me to the AIA and to

the work that the Institute does on behalf of its members.

After graduating from Penn State in the spring of 2008, I moved

down to Washington D.C. and started working. While I enjoyed

my work, there is only so much fulfillment you can get sitting

at your desk for 8-10 hours a day. I wanted to meet other young

architects in the city, and I figured the best way to do that was to get

involved with the local AIA chapter. Luckily for me, AIA|DC had an

active Emerging Architects group, and I started attending monthly

mentoring workshops which were hosted at different firms around

the city. I worked with other members of the chapter’s Emerging

Architects committee to begin the “Architecture Uncensored”

lecture series in the fall of 2009.

In the fall of 2009, I was approached by AIA|DC and asked if

I would be willing to serve as the Associate AIA member on the

chapter’s Board of Directors. I went back and forth on whether or

not I wanted to take on this new responsibility. I came back to the

idea that “decisions are made by those who show up”. Around my

office I’d hear people complain that “The AIA should do…” or “I really

wish the chapter had a program for …” I viewed the chance to serve

on the board as an opportunity to address some of these issues and

work to bring added value to the members of the profession, and

agreed to join the Board.

Since joining the AIA|DC Board of Directors in the spring of 2010,

I’ve had the opportunity not only to meet some amazing people, but

to work on some great projects. For the past year I’ve co-chaired the

chapter’s Emerging Architects committee, and have been involved

in the planning for the 2012 AIA National Convention which is being

hosted in Washington D.C this year. Perhaps the biggest and most

exciting thing that the chapter has accomplished during my time on

the board is the creation of the District Architecture Center. In the

fall of 2011, I was truly honored to receive the Emerging Architect

Award from the chapter in recognition of my work, and I look

forward to continuing to serve the AIA and my fellow architects in

the future.

I SORT OF stumbled into architecture. There are some people

I know who can tell stories about being five years old and spending

hours with a ruler, pencil, and sheet of graph paper designing their

future dream house, and knowing that they were going to grow up

to be an architect. I was not one of those. If I think back as far as I can

and try to remember all of the different things I wanted to be when I

grew up, the list includes a dozen different jobs and architect wasn’t

one of them. Architect wasn’t anywhere on the list. It wasn’t until

my junior year of high school that one of my friends encouraged

me to take a CAD class with him as an elective that I started to think

about going to school for architecture. I was never very artistic and

couldn't draw to save my life - two skills which I was told were critical

if I was ever going to get into architecture school.

The one thing I had going for me was that I liked to build stuff.

I was probably the only five year old with a set of actual “grown up”

hand tools, and before long my parents discovered that having a

live-in contractor was a pretty good deal. By the time I was applying

to colleges, I had amassed a decent portfolio of furniture and

renovation projects, and luckily, Penn State accepted me.

It has been said “decisions are made by those who show up”.

I’m not sure what the origin of this quote is, but it’s a pretty good

embodiment of one of the biggest lessons I learned during my time

in school. Architects are really good at complaining, and architecture

students are even better at it, as were my fellow architecture

students. I started taking advantage of opportunities to meet with

the head of the Architecture Department and to talk to the faculty

outside of class, and realized that the only reason that many of these

problems existed is that no one had bothered to bring them up and

work to get them resolved. It was amazing to me how simple many

solutions were - all that was needed was for someone to “show up”

and put in a little effort to improve the situation for everyone.

In my third year of school, a group of us decided to start a

chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS)

in response to a growing number of complaints from our fellow

students that Penn State didn’t have a professionally focused

architecture student group. I served as the chapter’s treasurer for

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By Marlan Ky, Associate AIA

Marlan Ky, Associate AIA, LEED AP BD+C, is an architectural intern at Franck and Lohsen Architects, a full service classical architectural firm located in Washington, DC and has been an active member in the AIA since 2009.

Mentorship

INSP IRE . CONNECT.

EVOLVE . ( I .C .E . )

Beyond the Inaugural

Since the inaugural, several platforms reported on various activities

such as informal non-design oriented happy hours for further

‘getting to know you’ discussions that progressed to ‘let’s catch up’

discussions. Activities initiated by platforms included tours of each

other’s offices, site visits to ongoing or finished local projects, a trip

to view the National Building Museum Lego exhibit, an evening

gathering at the National Portrait Gallery Asian American Artists

opening event, walking tours of DC, attendance at local lectures on

various topics, and participation in Gingertown,a holiday initiative

that matches architects in the D.C. area with members of the public

to create a town made of completely of ginger bread.

Follow Up and Moving Forward

Although some platforms admittedly have become less active

since the first few gatherings due to scheduling difficulties, other

more active platforms have been able to meet more than the

suggested 5-6 times per year. These active platforms anticipate

additional happy hours, building tours, meetings with other

architects, meetings with non-industry related professionals,

introductions to developers, and attendance and volunteering at

the AIA 2012 Convention. More importantly active platforms have

found that rotating the responsibility of meeting organization

as well as sensitive timing of the events promotes more meeting

opportunities. In the future, the committee plans to further

evaluate the program and has considered modifying the quantity

of platforms and introducing additional intra-platform gatherings

such as dinner and dessert networking events, and participation

with other industry related professionals.

THE ICE PROGRAM began with a goal to expand on the

traditional one-on-one mentoring format by introducing a small

“platform” consisting of design professionals at various stages of

their career. The program was founded by a four person committee,

Christopher Arnold AIA; Elizabeth Kinkle Associate AIA, and

Marlan Ky Associate AIA, and Timothy So, AIA who compared ICE

to “a personal board of directors.” The program duration would take

place over a period of one year. The committee members served

as an active channel of communication for a maximum of two

platforms and participated as a member in a platform in order to

have a front-line understanding of a platform’s activities. Platforms

consisted of an emerging unlicensed professional with 0-5 years

experience, two mid level licensed/unlicensed professional with

6-14 years of experience, and a seasoned licensed professional

with 15 or more years of experience. The varied experiences of

the participants established a network for potential personal and

professional development.

Summer 2011: The Inaugural

The inaugural forming of 7 platforms took place summer

2011 in Washington, DC and was generously hosted by RTKL.

Members of each platform were grouped based on the information

they provided during registration such as breadth of experience,

alma maters, location of employment, or personal interests. Each

platform designated a member who was responsible for being the

point of contact to an assigned committee member. The committee

suggested that each platform meet between 5-6 times throughout

the year. Attendance was near perfect.

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By Ann Dorough

Ann Dorough is the Executive Director of the AIA Potomac Valley (Maryland) chapter.

Mentorship

A IA POTOMAC VALLEY EXPER IMENTS

W ITH MENTORSH IP MODELS

at Perkins + Will; and Mark McInturff, FAIA, of McInturff Architects.

Feiner, former chief architect of the U.S. General Services

Administration, championed top-quality design in federal buildings

and left a particularly strong mark on federal courthouses across

the nation in the last decade. McInturff, arguably the most prolific

design award winner in chapter history, has a residential portfolio

that has been recognized by juries from all over the United States.

Feiner and McInturff shared some lessons from their very different

journeys into leading roles in the profession. They agreed that what

architects provide brings permanent value to society and is worth

pursuing, despite the turbulence of the business cycle.

Post-dinner feedback convinced the chapter leadership to

repeat the dinners, but with variations on the theme. Some wanted

smaller, informal sessions to minimize the stress of meeting senior

practitioners. Others asked for a more diverse mix of students and

professionals, reflecting all stages of the career ladder. Taking the

comments into account, the chapter plans a mentoring dinner in

late winter for members of the University of Maryland AIAS chapter,

introducing them to new and mid-career architects in a casual

setting.

Also in the concept stage are “vertical mentoring” sessions,

which would bring together a sampling of people from all career

stages (student to principal), scheduling not just a single event, but

bringing that group together for a series of gatherings to build a

continuing mentoring relationship.

IN 2010 AND early 2011, AIA Potomac Valley was failing to

retain and attract Associate and newer Architect members. After

reaching out to some members who had left, the Chapter heard that

one thing which was missing was opportunities to network and get

mentoring help as they sought a foothold in the industry. Although

the chapter’s office is located on the campus of the University

of Maryland and members worked closely with the School of

Architecture, there was no guarantee that alumni who stayed in the

area would connect with the chapter after graduate school.

Searching for programs to give emerging professionals a

boost, the chapter decided to test a program borrowed from

AIA Charleston, which won an AIA National award for its Mentor

Dinners in 2011. The simple idea was to gather 10 Associates and

interns around a dinner table, add two senior Architects, and let

conversation develop in that relaxed setting.

The first dinner was held at LEAFHouse, Potomac Valley’s net-

zero Chapter house, which in itself points to the contribution of

young professionals, since Maryland students designed and built

it for the U.S. Department of Energy 2007 Solar Decathlon. At 800

square feet, it was a snug venue, but LEAFHouse’s open plan, wood

paneling and natural light offered a congenial environment. At the

first dinner in June, each guest brought a bottle of wine, and the meal

was catered, courtesy of event sponsor, Nemetchek Vectorworks.

Joining the Associates and graduate students were special

guests Ed Feiner, FAIA, Director of the Design Leadership Forum

2012 YAF ADVISORY COMMITTEE

2012 ChairJennifer Workman, AIA

Vice ChairBrad Benjamin, AIA, CSI, LEED AP

Past ChairAdam W. Palmer, AIA, LEED AP

Programs AdvisorMatthew M. Dumich, AIA

Communications AdvisorDeepika Padam, AIA, LEED AP bd+c

Young Architect Regional Directors AdvisorJason Dale Pierce, AIA, LEED AP

Events AdvisorVirginia Marquardt, AIA, LEED AP, CDT

Public Relations AdvisorJoseph R. Benesh, AIA, CDT, LEED AP

College of Fellows LiaisonWilliam J. Stanley, III, FAIA, NOMA

AIA Board RepresentativeWendy Ornelas, FAIA

AIA Staff Director, Emerging ProfessionalsErin Murphy, AIA, LEED AP

The American Institute of Architects

Young Architects Forum

1735 New York Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20006

http://network.aia.org/AIA/YoungArchitectsForum

WHAT IS THE YOUNG ARCHITECTS FORUM?

The AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF) gives AIA

members who have been licensed 10 years or less

a voice throughout the Institute. Approximately

23,000 AIA members are represented by the

YAF; our 25 volunteer leaders are Young Architect

members in the AIA national, regional, state,

and local components.

YAF programs, activities, and resources serve

young architects by providing information

and leadership; promoting excellence through

fellowship with other professionals; and

encouraging mentoring to enhance individual,

community, and professional development.

All YAF members receive a national publication,

the bimonthly Connection newsletter. Members

also receive electronic communications from the

YAF social networking accounts on Facebook and

LinkedIn. Additionally, they have access to the YAF

page on the AIA.org website.