AIA Young Architect award: Carl Sergio, AIA

The Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) Architectural Design Awards 2023 recognized outstanding architectural projects that exemplify innovation, creativity, and sustainability. These awards aim to elevate architectural standards in Singapore and celebrate the professionals who contribute to the built environment. The President of SIA, Melvin Tan, emphasized that the awards serve to motivate architects to continuously enhance their skills and push creative boundaries, highlighting design as a critical component of architecture and urban development. The 2023 awards featured six categories, with two projects receiving the prestigious 'Design of the Year' title. One of the 'Design of the Year' recipients was the Delta Sports Centre, revitalized by Red Bean Architects. The firm focused on enhancing community connectivity and modernizing the 44-year-old structure while preserving its historical essence. A key design element was the use of a red brick facade, chosen for its visual prominence and as a tribute to the local neighborhood. The project prioritized strategic refurbishment over complete demolition, incorporating improvements such as a sheltered pool with an accessibility ramp for the elderly and disabled, a full-size hockey pitch, and a gymnasium above the indoor pool. Additionally, four new futsal courts, partially covered by a cantilevered roof, and an outdoor running track that integrates with the complex were added. The design also improved neighborhood access through a pedestrian overpass on Tiong Bahru Road, a feature that resonated with the jury for its community integration. The project's extended timeline due to the pandemic allowed for further refinement of the design, leading to the center's reopening after almost five years. The other 'Design of the Year' award was presented to Kay Ngee Tan Architects for the Gallop Extension at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This project involved skillfully transforming two colonial houses within the 80,000 sqm English-styled landscape into modern, functional public areas. Despite the small structural footprint, the architects focused on streamlining the design and optimizing space while maintaining the original character and the tranquility of the lush surroundings. The result is an architectural restoration that harmoniously blends historical preservation with contemporary design, creating a seamless flow between open natural spaces and curated enclosed areas. Other notable awardees included Park + Associates for their residential project, 'Make House', which was recognized in the Residential Projects category. The design was praised for its artistic whimsy, envisioning the structure as a Play-Doh factory that molded its interior spaces. A red spiral staircase contributes to the home's playful atmosphere, and soft contours on the facade hint at the unique interior. Formwerkz Architects received an award in the Institutional Projects category for the Punggol Soka Centre, a five-story building celebrated for its eco-friendly construction. It features expansive open spaces on each floor that interact with greenery, conceptualized as a citadel with courtyards interspersed with facilities like an auditorium, meeting rooms, and an exhibition area. RSP Architects Planners and Engineers, in collaboration with Toyo Ito & Associates, Architects, were honored in the Institutional Projects category for the Nanyang Technological University Academic Building South. This six-story building, approximately 22 meters long, notably utilizes Mass Engineered Timber (MET), a sustainable and eco-conscious alternative to conventional building materials. The project effectively showcases the design potential of renewable resources within an educational setting. In the Industrial, Transport & Infrastructure Design category, IX Architects was recognized for 'Of Bricks and Breath', a factory in Surakarta, Indonesia. This project transformed a typical industrial facility into one that embraces nature, featuring a facade made of creatively arranged locally sourced bricks that add texture and aesthetic appeal. The design also incorporates energy-efficient systems for natural light and ventilation in its workspaces, embodying an eco-conscious approach. Finally, RT+Q Architects received an award in the Interior Architecture Projects category for 'Le Corbusier: A Travelling Exhibition'. This exhibition concept, designed as an homage to Le Corbusier, addressed the logistical challenges of transporting physical models by creating robust, lightweight, and collapsible pedestals. Sustainability was a key consideration in the material selection, and the pedestals were designed for adaptability to various spatial configurations, ensuring the exhibition's portability and ease of setup. #SIAArchitecturalDesignAwards #SingaporeArchitecture #ArchitecturalInnovation #SustainableDesign #CommunityIntegration #ArchitecturalRestoration #EcoConstruction

This page serves as a comprehensive guide for architects, designers, and firms interested in submitting their work for consideration in Architectural Record's various annual awards and special features. It outlines the opportunities available throughout the year for showcasing contemporary architecture, residential projects, interior designs, and innovative products. The primary goal is to encourage submissions to several prestigious competitions and features that celebrate excellence and innovation in the field. The Architectural Record Awards are a key highlight, scheduled for inauguration in the fall. These awards aim to recognize the year’s best built and unbuilt projects, as well as leading design voices, with winners being celebrated at the annual Innovation Conference. This new award program will complement the magazine's long-standing tradition of highlighting architectural excellence in its print editions. Specific details for submission to these awards are provided through a dedicated link. Another significant feature is "Record Interiors," an annual issue that has for decades showcased outstanding contributions to building interiors. This competition invites architects and interior designers to submit projects that demonstrate clever solutions and innovative material choices, with a primary focus on interior scope. The page offers links to submission details and archives of past winners, providing aspiring entrants with examples of previously recognized work. "Design Vanguard" is presented as a program recognizing emerging firms and individual practitioners who represent the next generation of architects. Since 2000, this award has honored ten international winners each year, specifically targeting practices that have been established for ten years or less. This initiative aims to highlight fresh talent and innovative approaches within the architectural community, with application details and a list of past winners accessible on the page. "Record Houses," established in 1956, is an annual issue dedicated to residential design. It seeks projects that challenge expectations, push disciplinary boundaries, and creatively redefine established architectural vocabularies. The platform provides detailed submission guidelines and links to previous winners, offering insights into the types of residential projects that have historically been celebrated. The "Kitchen & Bath" competition focuses on novel approaches to these utilitarian spaces, encompassing both commercial and residential contexts, and even public infrastructure. This category encourages submissions that showcase innovation in design and functionality within kitchens and bathrooms. Information on entering this competition and viewing past winners is also made available. "Record Products of the Year" is a long-running competition that identifies the most innovative building materials, components, and furnishings introduced to the North American market within the past year. A panel of experts, including architects and designers, selects winning entries based on criteria such as inventiveness, functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. The awardees are featured in the December issue of RECORD, and the page provides entry details for the upcoming cycle and a list of previous product winners. The "Cocktail Napkin Sketch" contest, open to U.S.-based architects, students, and related professionals, celebrates the art of sketching. Entrants are required to submit a sketch on a white cocktail napkin using a pen. Two grand prize winners, one licensed architect and one related professional, receive a gift card and a set of custom cocktail napkins. Winning sketches are announced at the Innovation Conference and published in the November issue and on the website. This contest is sponsored by Construction Specialties. Finally, the "Guess the Architect" contest is a monthly challenge from the editors, inviting readers to identify the architect of a historically important building. The contest runs throughout the month, with a chance to win a $500 Visa gift card. This contest is sponsored by Pac-Clad Peterson. The page concludes by inviting general project submissions, providing links to submission guidelines and the editorial calendar for those who wish to have their work considered for publication outside of the specific contests. #ArchitecturalAwards #DesignCompetitions #EmergingArchitects #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #BuildingProducts #ArchitecturalSketching #InnovationConference #CallForEntries

The Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) Architectural Design Awards 2024 recognized a diverse range of projects that exemplified creativity, sustainability, and a deep appreciation for the interplay between built environments and natural forms. The awards were presented across seven categories at a gala event in May, celebrating architectural ingenuity in Singapore and beyond. The overarching design philosophy shared by the award winners echoed Antonio Gaudi’s belief that buildings should reflect the organic curves found in nature, avoiding straight lines and sharp corners, thereby creating spaces that blend modernity with historical and traditional influences. Among the distinguished winners was 21 Carpenter by Woha Architects, which received the Design of the Year award. This project transformed a former remittance house in a heritage neighborhood into a boutique hotel, seamlessly integrating four historic shophouses from 1936 with a contemporary five-story extension. Woha Architects prioritized biophilic design and sustainability, utilizing reclaimed heritage materials and working with local artisans, while adhering to a zero-plastics ethos. The hotel's facade pays tribute to its storied past by displaying city names where remittances were sent and incorporating verses from vintage remittance letters into its aluminum skin. Inside, Asian design elements and custom furniture create a warm ambiance, complemented by a rooftop infinity pool—Singapore's first exposed stainless-steel pool. Surbana Jurong Consultants, in collaboration with Kajima Design, was honored in the B1 Office Buildings category for The Gear. Located in Changi Business Park, this seven-story building serves as Kajima Design’s regional headquarters and innovation center, featuring five state-of-the-art laboratories. The Gear's design emphasizes collaboration and flexibility, with an exposed skeleton-and-infill concept allowing for future spatial adaptations. Envisioned as a “smart wellness office,” it prioritizes occupant well-being and environmental sustainability, evidenced by its Super Low Energy certification from Singapore's Building and Construction Authority and Platinum certification from the International WELL Building Institute. Kaizen Architecture received two awards—in the B6 Overseas Commercial Projects and F4 Overseas Interior Architecture Projects categories—for Rumah Kechik, an adaptive reuse project in Malacca. The firm transformed three 200-year-old shophouses into a hotel extension, incorporating a restaurant, function rooms, and a gym. The design reinterpreted the shophouses as a traditional Malay “rumah kechik” or “small house,” characterized by a linear arrangement of spaces around an open courtyard. This approach maintained the heritage while introducing contemporary elements like louvred timber screens and locally sourced materials such as Peranakan tiles and terracotta blocks. Kay Ngee Tan Architects won in the E1 Public Place Making category for their restoration of the Bukit Timah Railway Station and 9 Mile Platform. This project is a crucial part of Singapore’s Rail Corridor, a green space that was once a railway line connecting the Malay peninsula. The architects meticulously restored the station and staff quarters, preserving original elements like track switching levers and a ticketing booth, and adding replicas of railway station wagons to educate the public about Singapore's heritage. The staff quarters were transformed into a cafe, evoking a sense of nostalgic charm. Finally, RDC Architects was recognized in the E3 Conservation category for their work on the Church of The Blessed Sacrament. This mid-20th-century Catholic church, gazetted for conservation, underwent extensive renovations while retaining its original architectural features. Improvements included a wheelchair ramp, low-emissivity glass windows, and the replacement of asbestos roofing with lightweight metal tiles. Acoustic felt panels were installed to enhance the interior sound quality. The project successfully preserved the church’s distinctive tent-shaped roof and its modernist influences, allowing it to reopen to worshippers. #SIAArchitecturalDesignAwards #SingaporeArchitecture #SustainableDesign #AdaptiveReuse #HeritagePreservation #WohaArchitects #KajimaDesign #KaizenArchitecture #KayNgeeTanArchitects #RDCArchitects

The Lido Key home of Dan Denton, founder of Sarasota Magazine, is currently on the market for $4.95 million. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom residence at 117 S. Polk Drive exemplifies the Sarasota modern style, a significant architectural movement that gained international recognition from the mid-1940s through the 1960s. Denton, 71, recognized the enduring appeal of this style long before it was formally categorized as the “Sarasota School of Architecture.” He attended the 1982 American Institute of Architects convention where Gene Leedy, one of the movement's pioneers, officially coined the term. Denton, who admires architects like Paul Rudolph and Victor Lundy, acquired the home in 1989. At that time, the Sarasota School was a niche interest, with Mediterranean Revival being the predominant style. Denton was drawn to the home's flat roof, wide overhangs, terrazzo floors, and other midcentury characteristics, viewing it as a hidden gem reflecting the Sarasota School aesthetic, similar to a ranch version of the Umbrella House. Over 35 years, Denton undertook three significant renovations to transform the property into a pure embodiment of the Sarasota modern style. While the specific costs of these renovations are not disclosed, each decision was meticulously considered, with numerous architectural drawings and plans, including an idea for a second floor, ultimately not implemented. The initial layout, with rooms concentrated at one end, was reconfigured to a split floor plan. The guest wing is now arranged in a U-shape, creating a private courtyard at the back, mirroring another courtyard at the front, thereby maximizing outdoor living spaces. The backyard features a pool, spa, and fire pit, and a guest house is accessible via the kitchen in the main house's other wing. Architectural features include floating overhangs for shade and extensive use of windows and glass sliders, designed to enhance cross-ventilation and views. The first renovation in 1990, led by designer Robert Beardsworth, introduced a new pool and kitchen. Ten years later, Beardsworth’s partner, Robert Neal, and architect Michael Epstein of Seibert Architects (a firm founded by Tim Seibert, another Sarasota School leader and former draftsman for Paul Rudolph) collaborated on the second phase. The most recent renovation, completed in 2021, added an open pavilion to the garden, further integrating indoor and outdoor living. The front wall of the living and dining area was replaced with floor-to-ceiling windows, and screen-holding beams on the screened porch were removed to create unobstructed views of the pool. This renovation earned the home a Florida AIA Design Award in 2022. The home is adorned with Denton’s art collection and midcentury furniture, though these will accompany him to his new residence. Notable exceptions include a copper sculpture by Jack Cartlidge in the front yard and a colorful PVC pipe cylinder sculpture by James Renfro in the backyard, both of which will remain. The property does not have historical designation, offering flexibility for future modifications, but Denton hopes the next owner will share his appreciation for the home's unique style, expressing a desire to avoid a buyer who might consider demolition. He notes the challenge and interest in balancing replacements while maintaining the vintage aesthetic, exemplified by his decision to preserve the original pink tile in one of the bathrooms. Denton is downsizing but remaining in the local area. Kim Ogilvie of Michael Saunders & Company is handling the listing, emphasizing the home's prime location, offering access to the beach, boating, and dining without requiring a car, and highlighting the rarity of such expertly remodeled midcentury-modern homes on the market. #SarasotaModern #LidoKeyRealEstate #MidcenturyArchitecture #SarasotaSchoolOfArchitecture #HomeRenovation #LuxuryHomes #DanDenton #ArchitecturalDesign #FloridaAIAAward

San Diego Magazine has announced its 2025 Home + Design Awards, inviting design professionals and students to submit their residential or commercial projects for recognition. The awards are presented by Room & Board San Diego and aim to highlight outstanding design talent within the region. The article details the judging panel, consisting of notable figures in architecture and interior design, and lists the winners and reader's picks across various categories for the 2025 awards. The judging panel includes Daniela Deutsch, Dean of the School of Architecture and Professor at NewSchool of Architecture & Design in San Diego, who also serves on the Board for the San Diego Green Building Council. Megan Groth, an architect, urbanist, educator, and author of "Places We Love: San Diego Tijuana," brings her academic and practical expertise to the panel. Keith York, a native San Diegan known for documenting the region's modernist art and architecture through ModernSanDiego.com and his work with architect-designed properties, is also a judge. The panel is completed by Beverly Feldman, an interior designer and entrepreneur specializing in multifunctional furniture and innovative design solutions, and current Chapter President of the American Society of Interior Designers. The awards encompass a wide range of categories, recognizing excellence in both residential and commercial design. Residential Interior Design categories include Bathroom, Living/Family Room, Kitchen, Dining Room, Bedroom, Closet, and Home Office. Winners and reader's picks in this section include firms like Barton + Barton for "All Good, Tahoe" and "Aviara," Hello Home Interior Design for a Teenage Girls’ Bathroom, EEZ Interiors for "Pink Love" in the Kitchen category, and Jaccard Interiors / Shelley Jaccard for "Craftsman Charmer Dining Room" and "Pretty in Pink Primary Bedroom." JG Color Studios, Jennifer Guerin, was recognized for "Victorian Closet," while Blythe Interiors won for "Hacienda Medley," and M + M Interior Design for "Dolphin Place" in Staircases. Residential Exterior Design categories covered Outdoor Kitchen + BBQ, Front Yard Landscaping, ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), Exterior Renovation, Patio/Porch, and Use of Paint Color. Brookside Landscape Design garnered recognition for "Leucadia Coastal Modern" and "Kitchen Atelier." Andrea Doonan horticulture + design received an award for "Urban Oasis," and Anne Sneed Architectural Interiors for "VO House." Before Breakfast was acknowledged for "Urban Courtyard," and JG Color Studios for "Exterior Paint. Commercial Design awards were given for Restaurant Design, Bar Design, Event Venue Design, Hotel/Resort Lobby Design, Hotel/Resort Room Design, Commercial Landscape Design, Office Interior Design, and Coffee Shop/Cafe Design. MY Studio ID won for "Cocina De Barrio, Encinitas," with Reader's Picks going to Busalacchi Restaurant Group – Taylor Shaffer for "Lala," Tiger Veil / Rachel Larraine Crawford for "salon d’eau de vie Speakeasy (Bivouac)" and "Bivouac Cafe," Nolen Communities, Tecture Design + Fabrication for "Hatch Gatherings," and DesignX Architecture + Interiors for "Whissel Realty." Schmidt Design Group, Nolen Communities received a Reader's Pick for "Fox Point Farms." Special "Home of the Year" categories were divided into Interior and Exterior. For Home of the Year: Interior, Savvy Interiors/Susan Wintersteen's "Eclectic 70s Ranch by Savvy Interiors, Carlsbad" received the Judges’ Pick, with Reader's Picks for various styles including Modern (Fish & Co / Lisa Carolla – "The Seaford"), Coastal (House of Heacock/Megan Heacock White – "Paseo Residence"), Contemporary (Rachel Crawford & Carl Pallini – "Leucadia Home"), Eclectic (Jackson Design and Remodeling – "Historic Craftsmanship"), Craftsman (Equity Builders – "Archambault Residence"), Mid-Century (Savvy Interiors/Susan Wintersteen – "Eclectic 70s Ranch by Savvy Interiors"), and Rustic (Salt and Sky Lodging Co – "Dark Moon Chalet"). For Home of the Year: Exterior, Brookside Landscape Design's "MCM Avocado, Encinitas" was the Judges’ Pick, and Reader's Picks included Brett Farrow Architect, Inc. for "SEA4," Architects Magnus for "Casa Mariposa," Equity Builders for "Archambault Residence," and Brookside Landscape Design for "Neptune." Finally, a Student Submission category (No Fee) recognized Julian Carrera for "Sundays" (Judges’ Pick) and Sam Iacometti for "Bloom" (Reader’s Pick) for Best Overall Design.

The article presents an interview with Chris Dorsey, an architect and artist based in the Downtown LA Arts District, detailing his journey of starting his own architectural practice. Dorsey established Chris Dorsey Architects in January 2021, at the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before this, he did not consider himself an entrepreneur, but a period of self-reflection during the pandemic led him to reevaluate his career trajectory. He previously worked as an in-house architect for a national juice company, managing the design and construction of new stores across the U.S. While initially enjoying the role and his colleagues, he found himself increasingly drawn into corporate management aspects, moving away from the creative architectural work he cherished. The slowdown during COVID-19 provided the opportunity to prioritize and decide that launching his own firm was the best path forward. Chris Dorsey Architects focuses on a variety of projects, from small, custom restaurant and retail spaces to larger adaptive reuse projects, which involve converting existing industrial buildings into new uses. Dorsey emphasizes the collaborative aspect of his work, partnering with clients to achieve the best version of their projects. He cites a veterinary clinic renovation as a favorite recent project, where he incorporated color, sound, sight, and texture to create a nurturing and healing environment for animals, highlighting the profound impact of architectural design on its occupants. Although his primary experience is with commercial projects, Dorsey has also undertaken custom residential Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and renovation/addition projects, finding satisfaction in this different pace and experience compared to the often fast-paced and technically demanding restaurant and retail sector. A significant aspect of Dorsey's work that he finds most exciting is the ability to unlock the hidden potential of challenging sites or ideas. He acknowledges that every project comes with its unique constraints and complications. However, he believes that by understanding and leveraging the distinct characteristics of a site, unique design possibilities can emerge that might not have been apparent otherwise. This approach allows him to transform limitations into opportunities for innovative design solutions. When asked about local recommendations, Dorsey shares insights from his life and work in the Arts District. A perfect day for him would begin with a visit to the Hauser & Wirth galleries, followed by lunch at Manuela, where the cream biscuits remind him of his Georgia roots, and he enjoys seeing the chickens raised on-site. For evening entertainment, he recommends The Obscure, a speakeasy that features live artists and performers, particularly noting its special ambiance during Halloween. When he ventures outside downtown, Playa Provisions in Marina del Rey is a favored spot for coffee and beach walks, appreciated for being less crowded than Santa Monica and having many dogs playing in the sand. Dorsey also takes the opportunity to acknowledge his wife, Ashley Sims, a TV writer and author, as a significant influence and source of support. He credits her as the reason he is in Los Angeles and praises her creativity and strong work ethic, recognizing her consistent encouragement since the beginning of his endeavors. #ChrisDorsey #Architect #Artist #ArchitecturalPractice #Entrepreneurship #LosAngelesArtsDistrict #AdaptiveReuse #CommercialDesign #ResidentialDesign #CreativeProcess #LocalRecommendations

Metropolis, a prominent design publication, has announced its 2024 Future100 Interior Design Graduate Winners, recognizing 17 outstanding graduate students from universities across the United States and Canada. These individuals were selected by the Metropolis team for their exceptional talent, innovative design concepts, strong technical knowledge, and forward-thinking approaches to interior design. The recognized students demonstrate a profound understanding of design principles, a commitment to research, and an ability to create impactful and sensitive spaces. The featured winners include Helia Amini from Marymount University, whose design concepts are noted for superb technical knowledge and a strong research foundation. Lari Bittman, also from Marymount University, is recognized for her remarkable combination of raw talent, technical ability, and perseverance, evident in projects ranging from a playful daycare to a meticulously designed multi-use refuge community center. Brooke Bower from The University of Texas at Austin is highlighted for her imagination as a visual artist and embodied understanding of space, developing a portfolio reflecting an inspiring point of view poised to positively impact the built environment. Christa E. Gorman from Kansas State University is praised for her intensely creative and iterative design process, focusing on producing thoughtful and complete solutions. Sanjana Gopalakrishnan from The New School, Parsons School of Design, possesses a rare sensitivity toward playful design while remaining committed to circular economies. Henry Hammes, also from Kansas State University, is recognized as a talented and motivated student who creates carefully choreographed solutions through deep research and concept development. Kile Hotchkiss from The New York School of Interior Design exemplifies great promise with meticulous research and an insightful approach, integrating architectural details and clever interpretations of history. Pavitra Jairaj from the University of Oregon demonstrates a clear connection to client and user experience, grounded in research, precedent, and empathy. Malik Lovette, also from the University of Oregon, combines a background as a college athlete and artist into his design work, showcasing strong graphic communication and natural collaboration. Madina Masimova from The New School, Parsons School of Design, brings a global perspective to interiors and technology, leading with optimism on the future of design within the context of AI, design, and belonging. Eva Neri from Florida State University is described as a bright, free-spirited, and talented designer who weaves diverse research interests, including ambient sound and music, into multilayered designs focused on physical and emotional well-being. Tasha Singh from Drexel University is commended for her skill, enthusiasm, and consideration for people and place, possessing noteworthy design talent in both digital and hand-drawing mediums. Nihitha Sreenath, also from Drexel University, has a deep set of talents for communicating ideas across various mediums, demonstrating strong material sensibility and sensitivity to human needs. Melida Valera from the New York School of Interior Design is passionate about the design industry, with a deep respect for how things work and a diligent approach to learning. Nicolle Villa from Boston Architectural College is an attentive, detail-oriented student with fantastic interpersonal skills and a great eye for design and materiality. Jessica Wilsey from The University of Texas at Austin is an outstanding graduate student whose work has been repeatedly awarded for its design excellence, bringing remarkable sensitivity to extensive design research and the study of human behavior. Finally, Mingming Zhao from the Savannah College of Art and Design has chosen interior design to create beautiful and functional living environments that positively impact individuals and communities, with a design philosophy rooted in cultural context and locality. #Future100 #InteriorDesign #GraduateWinners #DesignExcellence #StudentDesign #ArchitecturalEducation #MetropolisMagazine #DesignInnovation

This blog post features an interview with Jason Apilado, a Senior Interior Designer, who offers insights into the interior design industry, discusses his notable projects, and shares his recommendations for cultural experiences, dining, shopping, and community engagement in Los Angeles. The interview begins by addressing common misconceptions about interior design, highlighting the blend of creativity and business acumen required for success. Apilado emphasizes the technical skills involved, including mathematics, geometry, engineering for cost calculation and collaboration with architects, and deep dives into psychology, history, and cultural studies for robust conceptual development. He also touches upon the challenges of navigating new design languages and effectively communicating these to various stakeholders, all while managing logistics and meeting deadlines. Apilado stresses the importance of artistic restraint and balancing imagination with practicality, without compromising design values. He introduces his '3 R's' approach—Recognize, Reassess, Recalibrate—to prioritize time management and support creative discipline, a skill he developed over 14 years in the field, including a significant period as a freelancer. Resilience, problem-solving, and leading with confidence without ego are also identified as crucial for designers. Apilado then shares details about some of his favorite projects, including a brutalist home/event space in Eden, Utah, designed in collaboration with Tom Wiscomb Architects and Benchmark Modern. This project features art installations and furniture by renowned artists and designers such as Jónsi, James Turrell, Rick Owens, Vibha Galhotra, Naama Tsabar, Pedro Reyes, and MAD Architects. Other significant works mentioned are the Soulmate Restaurant in West Hollywood, a G550 jet interior, and a contemporary residence in the Hollywood Hills, developed with Belzberg Architects and Dobkin Construction. The discussion also covers his recent ventures into dealing antique furniture, launching a textiles collection, and selling curated goods online. The interview shifts to local recommendations for Los Angeles. For cultural experiences, Apilado suggests Casa Perfect Los Angeles 3.0, Anat Ebgi gallery, Vardan Gallery, Arcana Books, and the Endeavour space shuttle. Dining recommendations include Santa Monica Seafood Market, Santa Monica Farmers Market, Spoon & Pork, Kang Ho Dong, and Siam Night Market. Shopping highlights feature H. Lorenzo and the Rose Bowl Flea Market. For community engagement, he recommends In Sheep’s Clothing hifi, Ambient Church, Brain Dead Studios, Aroma Golf Range, and the LA River West Bank Bike Trail. Finally, Apilado expresses gratitude to numerous individuals who have inspired and supported his career. He acknowledges fellow designers and craftsmen, emphasizing the importance of community and mutual support among artists. He specifically thanks his parents for fostering his creativity, his brothers for their support, and his high school teachers and college mentors for seeing his potential and never giving up on him. Special recognition is given to Sean Leffers for trusting him to build a design studio, and a list of influential figures such as Riza Stillwell, Scott Pennington, David Waggoner, David Goggins, Bjarke Ingels, Ridley Scott, The Wachowskis, Craig Green, and Richard Feynman are mentioned for their impact on his professional journey. #InteriorDesign #CreativeProcess #DesignProjects #LosAngelesCulture #BusinessAcuemen #ProfessionalJourney #ArtisticRestraint #CommunitySupport

The Rising Talent Awards, a recurring feature at Maison&Objet in Paris, once again spotlighted emerging designers, this time focusing on Spain for its January 2023 iteration. The program, known for directing the design community's attention to up-and-coming creatives from a specific country each year, featured a jury comprising renowned product designers Inma Bermúdez and Jaime Hayon. Six designers and one craft artisan were recognized, earning the opportunity to showcase their work at the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Center. The featured designers presented a diverse range of approaches to industrial and interior design. Álvaro Aramburu, an industrial designer from Madrid, showcased his love for nature, cultivated during his time in a Swedish forest village. His primary medium is wood, and he produces furnishings and objects like the Figueras coffee table set, which is glue-free, made of stained solid birch, and designed for flatpacking. Marta Armengol, an architect from Mallorca, demonstrated her versatility by working across multiple disciplines. Her portfolio includes collaborations with musician Rosalía, designing glassworks for the Belgian brand Maniera, and creating the interior design for Camper’s concept store in Valencia. Her sculptural pieces, such as the Kinsugi design, explore materials like glass, mirror, and light, emphasizing fragility while maintaining elegance and playfulness. Barcelona-based industrial designer Marta Ayala Herrera focuses on merging craft with industrial design to forge a new design language. Her Entreplanta lighting series, made from lacquered micro-perforated metal with linear LED tubes, draws inspiration from the exploration of space through geometric elements. Max Milà Serra finds inspiration in everyday life for his light sculptures. His pieces often incorporate kinetic movement, natural phenomena, and scale manipulation. An example is his Lampara D’aria fixtures, which are ethereal and battery-operated. Miguel Leiro, a designer with a background from Pratt Institute in New York, bridges industrial and artisanal design. His wooden Reliquary cabinet, characterized by meticulous joinery, is a notable work. Leiro is also the founder of Office of Design, a non-profit cultural management organization, and his recent designs are influenced by Roman banquet room furniture. Tornasol Studio, an architectural and industrial design practice based in Madrid, comprises Inés Llasera and Guillermo Trapiello. Founded in 2017, their work emphasizes materiality, exemplified by their Deriva armchair. They also maintain a workshop in Trujillo, refurbished from a former industrial space, where they display their furniture and objects. Josep Safont was recognized in the Craft category as a textile artist. Trained at the Massana Arts and Design school in Barcelona, Safont uses natural materials and experiments with embroidery and black ink on cotton-linen fabrics. His wall-mounted articulating embroidery hoops and stands often feature eye motifs, referencing sight. #MaisonObjet #RisingTalentAwards #SpanishDesigners #IndustrialDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #Craftsmanship #EmergingTalent

The Design for Impact Challenge, a collaborative event bringing together students from George Fox University's interior design program and Portland State University's architecture program, showcased real-world design experience. Held at BORA Architects' Portland office, the event partnered students with industry leaders and higher education design programs. The challenge required teams, each comprising interior design and architecture students, to design a new entry and classroom space for a high school in Southern California. Each team was also paired with an industry mentor, a practicing architect or designer, who provided guidance throughout the five-hour design process. The prompt specified that ideas from the student proposals would be incorporated into the high school's upcoming renovation, adding a significant layer of real-world impact to the exercise. Students engaged in an intensive five-hour session, sketching, modeling, and refining their concepts. The focus was on balancing aesthetic innovation with practical application, demonstrating the students' creativity and problem-solving skills. Following the design period, each team presented their proposals to a panel of professional jurors from the architecture and design industries. This provided students with valuable experience in communicating their design vision and receiving expert feedback. The winning team included George Fox interior design seniors Ava Heflen and Kali Braukmiller, mentored by Shawn from VIDA Design. Their design was lauded for its strong understanding of biophilic design, which integrated native and location-specific plants to promote wellness and environmental harmony within the classroom space. Furthermore, their proposal incorporated trauma-informed design principles. This involved providing choice and flexibility in furniture arrangements and seating, careful attention to classroom acoustics, and the implementation of open sightlines complemented by AI-powered security systems. These elements aimed to create safe and calming environments conducive to learning. The design was further enhanced by curved elements in finishes and furnishings, adding softness and approachability, culminating in a thoughtful and forward-thinking solution. Ava Heflen highlighted the memorable nature of the experience, particularly the opportunity to collaborate with architecture students, which provided valuable insight into real-world design scenarios. She also emphasized the crucial role of the industry mentor in offering helpful feedback and encouragement throughout the process. Heflen noted that the collaborative environment fostered refreshing interactions and sparked numerous creative ideas. The event also served as an inspiration, allowing her to witness the diverse and thoughtful designs developed by other participants in the challenge. Another team, featuring George Fox interior design students Sam Kinsman and Michaela Vega, and mentored by Melissa from Gensler Portland, received the 'Best Concept' award. This recognition acknowledged their visionary approach and compelling presentation. The Design for Impact Challenge provided students with a unique platform for inter-institutional collaboration, direct mentorship from industry professionals, and constructive feedback from respected jurors. For the George Fox students, this experience underscored the practical application of design thinking in real-world contexts and highlighted the transformative power of intentional, human-centered design in shaping future educational spaces. #InteriorDesign #DesignChallenge #GeorgeFoxUniversity #PortlandStateUniversity #BiophilicDesign #TraumaInformedDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #StudentCollaboration #RealWorldExperience

Adriana Jacir, founder of 2112 Design Studio, details her journey as an architectural interior designer, emphasizing the motivations behind starting her own business and the challenges she overcame. Her decision to launch her own venture was driven by a desire for flexibility as a parent of two young children without local family support, and a dissatisfaction with the traditional architectural firm environment in the U.S. Having emigrated from another country, she found the architectural landscape in the U.S. significantly different, necessitating a new perspective and learning curve. Her path to entrepreneurship was marked by significant personal and professional hurdles. As an immigrant, the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship was demanding and required considerable resilience. She pursued her Master’s Degree in Advanced Architectural Design at Columbia University in New York City, a long-held dream. However, her husband’s career and immigration status led them to relocate to Detroit, a city where she faced cultural differences and her first experiences with discrimination as a highly educated professional not born in the U.S. Despite these difficulties, she gained valuable experience in an architectural office. A subsequent visa requirement necessitated a move to an underserved area of the U.S. for three years, leading them to Yakima, Washington. Unlike Detroit, Yakima offered a more welcoming environment for foreigners. There, she briefly worked for an architectural firm but quickly recognized the need for greater flexibility, both as a mother and as a designer committed to creating functional, well-designed homes. This led her to co-found her first Design + Build firm in Yakima with a like-minded colleague. They obtained a General Contractor license, assembled a team, and successfully designed and remodeled homes, gaining hands-on experience in managing construction projects. After six years in Washington, her husband’s job offer prompted another move to Miami, where she again started afresh. In Florida, she established 2112 Design Studio, an interior design firm specializing in residential design. The studio focuses on creating thoughtful, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living spaces by seamlessly blending architectural principles with interior design. Jacir emphasizes that her unique approach involves considering flow, function, and structure from an architectural perspective, while also integrating the detailed elements that make a house a home. Adriana Jacir attributes her success to resilience, adaptability, and the cultivation of strong relationships. She aims for her story to inspire others, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can unlock significant opportunities even when faced with uncertainty. She credits her husband, Dr. Alberto Jacir, for his unwavering support and belief in her vision, which enabled her to pursue entrepreneurship while managing family life. Her mentor, Cheryl Clendenon, also played a crucial role in shaping her business and design approach. Above all, her children serve as her primary motivation, pushing her to be a better mother and inspiring her to build a meaningful legacy through hard work and passion. #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #Entrepreneurship #ImmigrantJourney #BusinessOwner #ResidentialDesign #Miami #DesignStudio #CareerDevelopment

The Fondazione Bisazza is commemorating the 50th anniversary of Richard Meier's firm with an exhibition titled 'Richard Meier: Architecture and Design.' The exhibition, located at Bisazza's headquarters in Vicenza, Italy, showcases a selection of Meier's notable architectural and design projects. The display includes fifteen architectural models, over thirty technical drawings, forty photographs, and numerous concept sketches, offering a comprehensive look at his career. The exhibition features some of Meier's most recognized works, such as the Getty Centre in Los Angeles and the Jubilee Church in Rome. It also includes more recent projects like the Italcementi HQ. Beyond architectural endeavors, the exhibition highlights lesser-known product designs, including a tableware collection created for Reed & Barton in collaboration with Swid Powell. A significant element of the event is the unveiling of a new site-specific installation by Richard Meier & Partners for the Fondazione Bisazza's permanent collection. This installation, named 'Internal Time,' is described as a geometric garden. It features a stylized arrangement of imposing vertical elements crafted from white mosaic, designed to offer visitors a space for wandering and meditative contemplation. Richard Meier's extensive career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the prestigious Pritzker Prize for Architecture in 1984. His firm continues to be active globally, with ongoing residential projects across Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as hospitality and commercial developments in Mexico and South Korea. The Fondazione Bisazza's permanent collection is known for featuring works by prominent designers like Alessandro Mendini and Jaime Hayon. Meier's 'Internal Time' further enriches this collection, aligning with the foundation's dedication to design and contemporary architecture. #RichardMeier #FondazioneBisazza #ArchitecturalExhibition #ItalianArchitecture #SiteSpecificInstallation #ModernArchitecture #DesignExhibition #PritzkerPrize #ArchitecturalDesign

Parentheses House, designed by SAI Architectural Design Office, is located in Fukui, Japan, an area characterized by its open rural landscape and proximity to the Kuzuryu River embankment. This 172 square meter house was completed in 2019, with photographs by Norihito Yamauchi. The project addresses the challenge of designing in a tranquil, sparsely populated area that is anticipated to see future residential development, given Fukui City's active promotion of residential land. The architectural strategy involved creating a design that interacts meaningfully with its surroundings while acknowledging future uncertainties. The core concept revolves around two stable U-shaped walls, which form the structural backbone and define the interior spaces. This configuration allows the roof to be suspended, creating a sheltered and cohesive internal environment. The design intends to establish a unique dialogue between the house and its expansive natural setting, particularly in anticipation of increased urbanization. The construction involved several notable manufacturers and specialists. JUNG, Vectorworks, Abvent, Catalano, Dulux, and Schindler were among the companies contributing to the project. Satoshi Saito served as the lead architect, while ARCREA Corporation provided engineering expertise. Ippei Yasue was responsible for the structural design. The building primarily utilizes wood as a key material, contributing to its aesthetic and functional qualities. The interior features elements such as shelving, large windows, and exposed beams, indicating a design focus on natural light, functional storage, and structural expression. The exterior showcases concrete facades, offering a robust and modern appearance that contrasts with the natural landscape. The use of concrete and other durable materials reflects a pragmatic approach to construction, ensuring longevity and resilience in the local climate. Parentheses House is categorized under residential architecture, specifically focusing on houses and house interiors. It exemplifies a contemporary Japanese residential design that balances functionality, aesthetic appeal, and a thoughtful response to its environment. The project is an example of modern living in a rural-urban transitional zone, highlighting how architectural design can anticipate and adapt to evolving landscapes while retaining a distinctive identity. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #HouseInteriors #Fukui #Japan #SAIArchitecturalDesignOffice #NorihitoYamauchi #ConcreteFacade #WoodConstruction

The United States is recognized globally for its diverse and innovative architectural landscape, featuring everything from towering skyscrapers to avant-garde community spaces. This rich environment is shaped by numerous architecture and design firms that continuously push the boundaries of design. This article highlights 15 leading firms across the USA, each contributing significantly to modern architecture through their unique philosophies, approaches, and iconic projects. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), based in Chicago, is a multidisciplinary firm established in 1936, known for seamlessly integrating architecture and structural engineering. Their collaborative approach focuses on creating sustainable and iconic buildings with a commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions. Olson Kundig, founded in Seattle in 1966, emphasizes designing for human experience and balancing rational and intuitive thinking in projects ranging from museums to residential spaces, with a strong focus on sustainability. Perkins & Will, established in 1935, is a global design practice dedicated to creating harmonious spaces that integrate humanity and nature. They are recognized for high-performance and sustainable architecture, driven by creativity, research, and technology. Gensler, headquartered in San Francisco and founded in 1965, is one of the world's largest architecture and design firms. They specialize in diverse projects, including commercial offices, retail centers, and urban complexes, aiming to enhance human experiences through well-being and inclusivity. Steven Holl Architects, with offices in New York and Beijing, is celebrated for its innovative blending of architecture, emotion, and urban design. The firm's projects are characterized by dynamic forms, masterful use of light, and contextual sensitivity. Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF), established in 1976, is a preeminent global firm known for architecture, interiors, and master planning, with a strong emphasis on contextual sensitivity. HOK, founded in 1955 in St. Louis, combines art and science to address design challenges, focusing on creative expression and sustainable building optimization across three continents. ZGF Architects LLP, based in Portland, Oregon, and founded in 1942, is a pioneer in sustainable and regenerative design. Their work emphasizes the relationship between buildings, people, and the environment. Gehry Partners LLP, a Los Angeles-based firm founded by Frank Gehry in 1962, is renowned for its extensive experience in design and construction, with Frank Gehry directly involved in each project, fostering deep client collaboration. Weiss/Manfredi, a New York-based multidisciplinary practice founded in 1989, integrates architecture, landscape, art, and infrastructure, recognized for bold, iconic forms and clear design vision. Rockwell Group, an interdisciplinary firm with offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Madrid, specializes in creating extraordinary experiences across hospitality, culture, healthcare, and residential sectors, driven by curiosity and innovation. Feldman Architecture, a San Francisco-based studio established in 2003, focuses on creating soulful and site-sensitive residential and commercial architecture that harmonizes with natural contexts, emphasizing modern aesthetics and problem-solving. Perkins Eastman, a global firm founded in 1981 in New York City, aims to positively impact human lives and the built environment through sustainable and resilient designs, supported by extensive research and innovation. Sasaki, founded in 1953 by landscape architect Hideo Sasaki, is an international firm with offices in Boston, Denver, and Shanghai. It specializes in interdisciplinary design, integrating people, buildings, land, and context. SHoP Architects, established in 1996 in New York City, operates across five continents, offering architectural services for large-scale master plans, residential, and commercial structures. Their design philosophy, "Our Work is in the Future," anticipates and designs for future architectural trends. #ArchitectureFirms #DesignFirms #USArchitecture #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #UrbanPlanning #ContemporaryArchitecture #ArchitecturalGiants

The article delves into the historical evolution of architectural licensure in the United States, examining the factors that led to the protection of the title 'architect'. Before widespread adoption of registration laws, the architectural profession lacked formal structure, with individuals skilled in drawing, craft, or patronage able to claim the title without standardized education or national codes. This model became untenable due to rapid urbanization, economic expansion, and technological advancements post-Civil War. From 1865 onward, the U.S. experienced significant growth, particularly in urban centers. The urban population surged from 20% in 1860 to over 50% by 1920. This demographic shift fueled demand for new construction technologies, including steam-heating, mechanical ventilation, electric lighting, and structural steel, which introduced unprecedented complexity to building design and construction. Architects, traditionally 'master builders,' struggled to keep pace with these advancements, leading to a perceived deficit in expertise. Frank Miles Day, in his influential (though initially unpublished) *The Handbook of Architectural Practice*, highlighted the growing burden on architects to master diverse scientific and technical subjects. The increasing complexity of construction also brought financial challenges. The burgeoning business and capital-motivated culture of the late 1800s saw property and real estate as instruments of profit, demanding greater financial and organizational control over projects. Architects were compelled to adapt to this new 'political economy of building,' moving away from a tradition-bound culture based on patronage and handicraft. Two interconnected crises prompted the birth of architectural licensure: building safety concerns and the profession's insecurity about its relevance. High-profile incidents, such as the 1903 Iroquois Theater fire in Chicago (claiming 600 lives due to design flaws) and the 1922 Knickerbocker Theater collapse in D.C. (killing 98 due to inadequate roof design), exposed the grave consequences of poor architectural and construction practices. Critics like F.W. Fitzpatrick openly blamed architects for prioritizing aesthetics over safety and structural integrity. These incidents spurred calls for a more formalized, controlled, and regulated profession to safeguard public life and property. Beyond safety, architects faced internal pressures. The profession, already part of a wider trend of professionalization across various U.S. disciplines in the 1800s, feared losing control over the scientific and business aspects of construction to emerging roles like structural engineers and general contractors. New models, such as building companies with in-house design staff and owners acting as their own architects, threatened the traditional value proposition of independent architects. Architects perceived that an overly open and undefined title diluted their authority and competence. In response, architects pursued professionalization through standardization, institutionalization, and licensing. The American Institute of Architects (AIA), founded in 1857, spearheaded efforts to standardize practices, legal advice, and technological knowledge across states. This led to the development of the Uniform Contract in 1888, formalizing the architect's role, and Day's *Handbook of Architectural Practice*. The goal was to project a unified, authoritative voice, reinforcing architects' confidence and competitive edge against other construction roles. The profession also advocated for legal protection of the 'architect' title, believing that a lack of definition allowed unqualified individuals to practice, tarnishing the profession's reputation. S. Kruse's 1914 article in *The Real Estate Magazine* echoed this sentiment, calling for stringent licensing requirements. While the push for exclusivity was rooted in genuine concerns about competence, it also reflected class-based biases and led to the exclusion of women, people of color, and immigrants, exacerbating existing institutionalized discrimination. The AIA, for example, admitted its first female member in 1888 and its first Black member in 1923. State-level lobbying intensified from the 1880s, culminating in Illinois becoming the first state to require architect licensing in 1897, followed by California (1901), New Jersey (1902), and New York (1915). By 1919, nearly 20 states had enacted such laws. To address interstate mobility challenges, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) was formed in 1920, aiming for uniform laws and examinations. By the late 1950s, all 50 states' registration bodies had joined NCARB. The 20th century saw the solidification of the 'Three Es' of licensure: Examination (Architect Registration Examination, ARE, from 1963), Experience (Intern-Architect Development Program, now AXP, from 1977), and Education (NAAB-accredited degree requirement from 1984). #ArchitecturalLicensure #ProfessionalPractice #ArchitecturalHistory #UnitedStates #UrbanizationImpact #BuildingSafety #NCARB #AIA #ProfessionalExclusion