Chicago; image: Pedro Lastra
The AIA Conference on Architecture 2022 returns to our hometown Chicago. It will be a time for reconnecting and for sure, to hear each other’s stories, successes, and challenges. We’re thrilled that our city is the backdrop to such amazing stories – the architecture, history, fun, and sun (finally) – all serving as fodder, visionary delight, and a bold setting on June 22 – 25. And A’22 is full of stories, too, perfect for reconnecting – keynotes, programming, events, and wow – time to be in person together. We need this!
Just announced: International Religious Art and Architecture Awards Program on June 23, 2022, from 7-9 p.m. at the conference hotel (Sheraton Grand Chicago, 301 East North Water Street).
It's not too late to join us as “we explore architecture’s ability to drive new thinking in one of the most design-forward sustainable cities in the US.” Check out the conference website – new programs and events are continually added. A’22 is a perfectly curated blend of critical sessions alongside lots of networking, events, and tours. Yet, we know the conference has so much meaning beyond that. Just perusing the programs has us wanting to hear more and see all; from the introductory keynote conversation with our new AIA National EVP/Chief Executive Officer Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE (Program Code GS100) to Thursday night’s Block Party to mingle and meet.
Many of our colleagues will be attending, some presenting, others learning and catching up. As designer and educator, one of my favorite conference activities is walking the Expo floor with friends. I always seem to learn more and make more discoveries when doing this in a group. Don’t undervalue it. It’s terrific to see product and speak directly with manufacturers and get instant feedback from colleagues, too. A’22 has redesigned the floor to reflect Chicago’s neighborhoods and park systems and be a more interactive experience. We’ve seen the AIA Chicago host chapter lounge and it promises to be unlike any one before.
Revisit Mies’ Carr Memorial Chapel at IIT and take a trip out to Oak Park for the vibrant renovation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple.
In my purview of programs, we’re splitting up to take better advantage of offerings. Timber is a hot topic for Peter, along with sustainability. He’s checking out Essential Lessons in Embodied Carbon: Roofing (Program Code EL603a), Mass Timber: Designing for a More Sustainable Future (Program Code EX109) and Getting to Net Zero Before the RFP (Program Code TH308). I’m searching out inclusivity, well-being, materiality matters, and community. I’m ready now for the Honoring Community & Culture by Engaging Local Artists, where we hear from renown muralist Victor Ochoa and the women entrepreneurs of Art Atolondrada about how incorporating cultural contexts through art stimulates human connection and well-being. Stories of the pragmatic entice me, too. I’m all in to hear about Comfort Floors for Education & Health Care (Program Code EL111a), to better understand the ergonomics and benefits of seamless flooring. And Designing and Building with Mindful Materials (Program Code EV218) is on my list, too, to remind me of better choices so we work towards sharing goals of improving our health, climate health, social health, and equity – all in a circular economy. Pay It Forward: The Benefits of Mentorship at All Ages (Program Code WE220) looks so informative, too. As mentors ourselves, there’s some added discussion points that are intriguing, from the difference between coaching and mentorship to the contributions of mentorship to the development and growth of minorities. What could be more an imperative than that?
A’22 will present ideas, experiences, and passion in a city made for it. Revisit Mies’ Carr Memorial Chapel at IIT and take a trip out to Oak Park for the vibrant renovation of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Unity Temple.
Get out into our neighborhoods! And say hello to us! We’ll be there.
"Chicago is a town, a city that doesn't ever have to measure itself against any other city. Other places have to measure themselves against it. It’s big, it’s outgoing, it’s tough, it’s opinionated, and everybody’s got a story."
~ Anthony Bourdain, celebrity chef and author
