Summer Gala Celebration
AIA UK Highlights: Summer Celebrations, Sustainability, and Innovations
Over the past three months, AIA UK has been buzzing with exciting events and initiatives!
Summer Gala Celebration
This summer, AIA UK hosted the spectacular 2024 Design Awards Summer Gala at the Royal College of Physicians, celebrating the chapter’s 30th anniversary alongside the annual Excellence in Design Awards. Guests enjoyed an engaging tour of the historic venue, lively award presentations, and a delightful garden reception, thanks to the generous support of sponsors and attendees.
Licensure Achievement
In an inspiring success story, Glenn Harmon shared his journey through the Mutual Recognition Agreement, smoothly navigating the licensure process and proudly earning his architect title in the UK.
Bike Trip Adventures
The 2024 Bike Trip took AIA members from Gravesend to Rochester, uncovering the architectural gems of the Hoo Peninsula. Guided by architect Benedict O’Looney, participants explored historic sites like the Pocahontas memorial and a 14th-century castle, all while earning Continuing Education credits.
The Bike Trip. The Road to Rochester. Photo Credit: E Fitzpatrick, AIA
Sustainability Series & Innovations
June kicked off AIA UK's Sustainability Series with a webinar on innovative bio-based materials in construction. Leaders discussed groundbreaking materials like BIOCORE and Sugarcrete®, showcasing sustainable practices that can significantly reduce carbon emissions in building projects.
In July, Beale & Co Solicitors hosted a dynamic roundtable discussion addressing the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in architecture and the implications of the Building Safety Act (BSA). With 40% of UK architects utilizing AI, the conversation explored its potential to enhance workflows and the challenges in meeting ambitious housing targets.
Engaging Building Tours AIA UK has also hosted a series of building tours that highlight cutting-edge design. Members explored UCL East Marshgate, a model of civic architecture; participated in a virtual tour of Ombú, a carbon-neutral workspace by Foster + Partners; and visited the renovated Tower Hamlets Town Hall, blending historical charm with modern design.
UCL East Marshgate. Photo by Gregory Fonseca
Ombú by Foster + Partners. Photo by Gregory Fonseca
Research and Emerging Professionals AIA UK continues to push boundaries in architecture with research on hydro-social design, addressing climate change and migration by transforming historical caravanserais into adaptive water nodes, supported by the Noel Hill Award. Submissions are open until October 18, 2024. The chapter also hosted Mina Hasman, discussing The RIBA Climate Guide, a vital resource for professionals navigating climate challenges in the built environment. The recording of the talk can be found on the AIA-UK website here. Additionally, emerging architects can find support and tips for navigating the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) while abroad.
These initiatives showcase AIA UK's commitment to advancing architectural practice and fostering a vibrant community in an ever-changing world. Stay tuned for more exciting updates!
For more news from AIA UK, visit https://www.aiauk.org/blog.
