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Tuesday Newsletter
February 18, 2025
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AIA|LA on Wildfire Recovery | |
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Following the devastating January 2025 wildfires, AIA Los Angeles recognizes the critical need to support community-driven rebuilding efforts.
Key principles for successful recovery include:
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Prioritizing community needs and input — Rebuilding efforts must center on the needs and aspirations of affected communities.
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Embracing sustainable and resilient design — Incorporating best practices for fire-resistant construction, including defensible space, drought-tolerant landscaping, and the use of non-combustible materials.
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Addressing housing affordability and equity — Explore options like ADUs and alternative housing models to increase housing stock and affordability.
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Modernizing infrastructure — Advocate for the transition to underground utilities, including all-electric systems, to enhance safety and resilience.
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Protecting the environment — Recognize the importance of trees in the urban landscape while implementing strategic fuel modification strategies.
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Advocating for policy changes — Work with city officials to streamline permitting processes and implement policies that support sustainable and equitable rebuilding.
Priorities for AIA Los Angeles:
Community Engagement
- Organize workshops and forums to gather community input and facilitate dialogue on rebuilding priorities and concerns.
Policy Advocacy
- Advocate for streamlined permitting processes that support rapid and equitable rebuilding.
- Advocate for building code updates that incorporate the latest in fire-resistant design and construction.
- Support policies that incentivize sustainable and resilient building practices.
Resource Development
- Create a central hub of information for homeowners on rebuilding options, including financing, contractors, and available resources.
- Create a library of design guidelines and best practices for fire-resistant and resilient construction.
Volunteer Programs
- Mobilize AIA|LA members to provide support to affected homeowners and businesses.
- Offer workshops and educational programs on fire-safe building practices and disaster preparedness.
By actively engaging with communities, advocating for policy changes, and providing valuable resources, AIA Los Angeles will support the successful and equitable recovery from these devastating wildfires.
Read the Advocacy Report
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One Week Left! Showcase Your Work in the AIA|LA Residential Architecture Awards!
Designers, this is your final call to showcase your best residential work in the AIA|LA Residential Architecture Awards! With just one week left to register, now is the time to put your projects in the spotlight and get the recognition they deserve.
Students, this is your moment too! We’re looking for visionary projects that explore resilience in residential design—from wildfire-resistant homes to adaptive, sustainable solutions. Let your ideas shape the future!
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Master Accessible Design – Earn 5 Mandatory CE Hours on February 28
License Renewal Deadlines Approaching!
Have a February renewal due? Act now and secure your required CE hours for licensure.
Join us in person on February 28 for a critical ADA seminar with Janis Kent, FAIA, CASp. This session will cover Accessible Routes, Circulation Paths, and Path of Travel in both new and existing projects.
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AN EVENING WITH EVELYN LEE, FAIA & 2025 AIA NATIONAL PRESIDENT
February 19 @ 5:30P - 7:30P
Please join us for a discussion with Evelyn Lee, FAIA who will share her insights on the evolution of architectural practice, leadership development, diversity in design, and the integration of technology within an ever-evolving world.
Story and registration
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STEEP SLOPE ROOFING PERSPECTIVES & LEARNING TO DESIGN FOR PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY: DAWN DISCUSSIONS - FREE
February 26 @ 8:00A - 9:00A
Steep Slope Roofing Perspectives provides architects with knowledge about unique asphalt shingle granules, the benefits of polymer modified asphalt manufacturing and how a roofing shingle is sustainable.
The primary goal of this 1 hour presentation is to provide...
Story and registration
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TECH RIZE LA: THRIVING IN DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
March 7 @ 8:00A - 4:00P
Extraordinary times call for extraordinary leadership. We’re standing at the crossroads of a tech super cycle that’s rewriting the playbook across industries. Artificial Intelligence, the ecosystem of connected things, biotechnology and a wave of digital innovation are...
Story and registration
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Transform LA Wrap-Up: Students Designing a Greener Future
The future of sustainable design is bright! Transform LA, hosted by ACLA, brought together the next generation of architects and designers for a high-energy charrette focused on tackling climate change and reimagining a more resilient Los Angeles. From bold urban strategies to innovative green solutions, students showcased their creativity and commitment to a more equitable, eco-friendly city.
A huge thank you to all participants, mentors, and supporters who made this event a success!
Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA) champions education and fosters the next wave of changemakers. Please find out more at www.ac-la.org and let us know how you would like to get involved.
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10 Must-have leadership skills for running a successful architecture firm
Now perhaps more than ever, architecture needs great leaders to address the changes and challenges facing the profession. Whether you aspire to lead your own firm, are on the path to senior management, or are already helming a company, here are 10 qualities and strategies that five proven practice leaders below have identified as instrumental to their success.
Read the Article
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2025 Silver Annual Sponsor | |
The Los Angeles Chapter of the American Institute of Architects | | | | |
