| The message at NC Chapter of the American Institute of Architects' annual convention at the Blake Hotel was one of renewal. Shop talk among the 200 NC architects focused on renovations, rehab work, and building additions. (And maybe a couple conversations about the Penrose Steps.) Guest speaker and AIA national CEO Robert Ivy (left, with AIA's Charlotte prez Todd Berg) acknowledged the days of ground-up construction are in decline. But there's still work to be found in institutional design, schools, renovations, and, of course, sustainable buildings. | |
| Todd tells us he sees signs of recovery, though '12 is still young. ?We've been struggling the past few years, and that's been true for contracting and design,? Todd says. ?I see a slow climb up in 2012, but at least we're heading in the right direction.? On the national front, Robert agrees to a ?modest positive tilt,? and points to AIA stats that show architectural billings have increased for the past four months in a row. ?That's the first time that has happened in four years,? Robert says. | |
| Green building was on the minds of many. The AIANC itself is setting the example by designing and building a $4.5M HQ in Raleigh (within view of the NC General Assembly building). The 3.5-story, 12k SF building is the first of its kind for any AIA organization in the country. And it will be a welcoming space, says Charlotte-based Camas Associates? Wayne Camas (left, with AIANC prez Irvin Pearce). The AIA plans to host exhibits, invite the public in for seminars, and spread the word about sustainable design, Wayne says. ?Sustainable building is a way of life now,? Irvin tells us. |
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