Welcome Back!

Happy New Year and welcome back to school!

This is going to be a very busy semester for AIAS. We've got lots of programs coming up for the spring 2009 semester. And who can't forget about our biggest event in the spring? Beaux Arts Ball!

Keep a look out for emails, posters, and blog updates for all AIAS activities.

Good luck with the start of the semester!

FORUM Denver 2009: Energy

Leaders from the Northeast Quad of AIAS

Seven members of CUA AIAS set out for Denver to celebrate ringing in 2009 with 600+ other architecture students from all over the world at AIAS Forum. This past Forum explored design and sustainability. Hosted by the AIAS Chapter at the University of Colorado Denver, FORUM explored not just issues related to sustainability and “green” design, but also the “energy” of great architecture.

Student Chair Andrew Atchley, in conjunction with the Denver host committee and countless sponsors and supporters, assembled some of the leading architecture and design experts to serve as thought leaders, catalysts and mentors. Andrew and his colleagues recognized the inherent challenges those in the design world face as they try to create structures that not only minimize environmental impacts but also provide form, function and sense of place. The speakers and programs explored those issues and helped students work toward solutions that can be utilized in their classrooms and in future practice.

The first day split the group up. Some students enjoyed the landscape and went skiing, meeting other AIAS members from around the world. One student, Marcus Johnson, was able to participate in a architectural photography workshop to hone his skills while exploring the city. Another student, Irene Jorden, participated in the Sustainability Design Charette in a mixed team with AIAS members from SCAD and Roger Williams University. Their newly founded team was able to analyze a site in Denver and design studio and community spaces for the future, focusing on sustainability and global networks, and produce a design to be judged- all in just 8 hours. The team not only worked together well, even from their differing backgrounds, but took home 2nd place and $150 prize.

2nd Place Design

Students were able to attend lectures every evening by phenomenal architects like Michel Rojkind, who gave a memorable speech about design and practice problems in the architecture world and Alfred von Bachmayr who started World Hands Project.

One of the highlights is always the New Years Eve Beaux Arts Ball. This past year's them was "Recylced," showcasing clothes made from recycled materials, recylced prom dresses and some vintage wear.

The most amazing part of the conference was the energy felt and the inspiration from the workshops and lectures. Students left the conference with new partnerships, confidence to improve their schools and knowledge to improve their careers.