Event Description

Jim Richard, FAIA, of Richard Kennedy Architects, and Arne Emerson of Morphosis are both leading voices in contemporary architecture, each with a unique approach to design that integrates philosophy, context, and innovative processes. Their discussion revolves around how their architectural practices respond to the "sense of place," a crucial concept in architecture that relates to the cultural, environmental, and historical context of a site, and how it is realized in their work.

Both architects emphasize the importance of understanding the local environment, culture, and materiality in their design processes. Richard Kennedy Architects is known for a thoughtful, site-responsive approach that balances modernity with regional identity. On the other hand, Morphosis is renowned for its avant-garde designs that push technological boundaries while still engaging with their surroundings. For Jim Richard, architecture is about creating spaces that enhance human experience while respecting the history and context of a place. This often translates into material choices that reflect the regional vernacular or designs that harmonize with the landscape. Arne Emerson and Morphosis, however, often challenge conventional notions of "sense of place" by using bold, dynamic forms that engage in a dialogue with their surroundings. Their projects frequently explore themes of transformation and movement, integrating advanced digital fabrication techniques and sustainable strategies.

Speakers

Arne Emerson, Partner, Morphosis

James Richärd, FAIA, Richärd and Kennedy Architects

Moderator

Megha Arjun, Intl. Assoc. AIA, 2025 Spring Conference Chair

CES: Estimated 1 LU for AIA Members

Speaker Bios

Arne Emerson is a Partner at Morphosis with more than 29 years of experience in the field. Since joining Morphosis in 2009, he has played a significant role in the design and development of a broad range of national and international buildings, competitions, and planning projects in the U.S., Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.  Prior to Morphosis, Arne was a Design Principal at Studio Libeskind for 10 years, playing a pivotal role in the design and construciton of several award winning museums, masterplans, and cultural projects.  

At Morphosis, Arne is one of four partners leading all aspects of the design direction and management of Morphosis.  Arne is Partner-in-Charge of several projects, including the new U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, the new U.S. Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a new multi-building cultural district for The University of Texas at Dallas - including the recently opened Crow Museum of Asian Art and a new music building and 700 seat performance hall, a new headquarters for lululemon in Vancouver, and the recently completed headquarters campus in Milan for Eni, the largest oil and gas company in Italy.  

In addition to his professional career, Arne is a committed educator and lecturer. He is a frequent guest professor at Montana State University, Arizona State University, the Young Architects YAC Academy in Italy, and a studio critic at Washington University in St. Louis and Oklahoma State University. He recently served on the President’s Committee for Art and Architecture at Montana State University.

James Richärd, FAIA is an internationally recognized, award-winning lead designer who leverages context, materiality, and tectonics to create powerful and evocative spatial experiences. With his integrative approach to design, and a focus on civic work, he is sought out and known for inspiring projects that enrich the communities they serve – whether a global international hub or a rural neighborhood.  He has specialized expertise in the design of academic and community libraries, diplomatic campuses, and academic research facilities. Over the past decade, he has designed and constructed a multitude of Diplomatic campuses and facilities around the world, including new embassies, consulates and diplomatic compounds in Qatar, Brazil, Mexico, Mauritius, India, Indonesia, and China, among others.

Jim has been named an Emerging Voice by the Architectural League of New York and Architect 50 by Architect magazine eight years running. He has been the recipient numerous international/national design awards, including the University of Arizona Alumni of the Year, AIA Arizona Firm of the Year Award, the AIA Arizona Architect’s Medal, and an AIA Fellow. His. The firm’s work has been featured in more than 30 publications.‍

With nearly forty years dedicated to his practice and studio in the heart of Phoenix, he has been a guest lecturer and critic for several architectural institutions as well as public owners including the General Services Administration (GSA) and the U.S. Department of State, where he is also an adjunct Industry Peer Advisor for State’s Industry Advisory Group. Committed to advancing the practice of architecture and realizing its profound impact on the imagination and human spirit, Jim remains engaged in mentorship and advocacy in his home state of Arizona and internationally.

https://www.rkarch.com/people/james-richard

Moderator Bio

Megha Arjun is a licensed Architect with COA in India, currently working in Qatar in the field of architecture, design, and construction. Her passion for Architecture originated from her love and understanding of Life. Learning and exploring the world of Architecture, One's idea is to take Inspiration from Life itself and give it back in the Physical form. One believes in creating spaces which can contribute to the World in a way which helps create value in people's lives and in the environment.

Megha has worked for a global design firm - HKS Inc. where she has worked on different scales of projects in the US, China and India. She has been actively involved in preparing and participating in Client presentations for reputed Clients in India and Singapore. Currently, to advance her knowledge in Building construction, she has been leading the construction and coordination effort as a Project Manager with PES in Qatar for various upcoming projects in Qatar.

Megha is a member of the AIA American Institute of Architects as an International Associate. She has been awarded a Gold Medal in her Bachelors for Academic Achievement. She has also been a Better Together Champion for the firm-wide initiative in HKS Inc. as a part of HR to include Diversity, inclusion, and Equity.