Celebrating a Year of Architectural Excellence!

Happy Holidays Beautiful Members,

I hope you are living the dream and ready for the holidays.

I am so proud of you and the difference you made this year in our communities (and state). Your dedication to architectural excellence sets a standard that not only elevates your profession but also infuses a sense of place in the communities you serve. Your innovative designs and commitment to sustainability reflect how much you care about the next generation.

What makes me so proud is the way you extend your impact beyond designing and job sites. Your commitment to volunteerism, those countless hours invested in community initiatives and professional development, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Whether mentoring emerging architects or participating in outreach programs, your generosity and willingness to give back enrich both the architectural profession and the lives of those you touch. And yes, you are making a difference every day!

It is BECAUSE OF YOU THAT:

Good Samaritan was passed in 2005 allowing architects to volunteer with no liability when a natural disaster occurs.
The statute of limitations went from 13 years to 7.
The City of Birmingham is finally updating their parking and zoning changes. Find out more at the January Chapter Meeting…
Assisted the city with finding safe sleeping solutions for our street neighbors.

It takes years for your efforts to come to fruition, especially when working with the government. The above are just a few amazing accomplishments AIA Members have made happen. Your patience is paying off.

In the spirit of spreading positive vibes, your leadership in initiatives that promote accessible design, environmental consciousness, and social well-being is like a ripple effect of love and positivity. It’s a testament to the transformative power of architecture and the profound impact architects can have on the communities they serve. Remind yourself of this on the days you wonder why you are an architect.

Thank you for your tireless efforts, your commitment to community and place, and your groovy volunteer spirit. Let’s keep on making positive things happen in 2024.

Peace, Love, & ARCHITECTURE,
Rhea Williams, Hon. ASLA
Executive Director, AIA Birmingham & Alabama Center for Architecture

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As 2023 comes to a close, we reflect on a year filled with incredible achievements, events, and impactful collaborations that have defined our shared journey. The energy and creativity of our architectural community, coupled with the invaluable support from our Partners & Sponsors, have made this year truly remarkable.

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Thank you to our 2023 Partners & Sponsors!

In this season of gratitude, we extend our warmest thanks to our sponsors & partners in making AIA Birmingham thrive! Here’s to the partnerships we’ve build and to a future filled with continued collaboration & innovation.

Ready to get involved next year? Check out our 2024 Sponsor Brochure!
We are currently offering $100 Platinum-Silver Sponsorships until January 5, 2024! Discount applied online.

www.aiabham.org/shop/

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Mark Your Calendars:

Register online here! Early registration ends January 17th.

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Recap of 2023 Events:

Click each link to view photo galleries from our events.

Coffee with Chris Hastings – January Chapter Meeting
Urban Impact: Civil Rights District Update – February Chapter Meeting
Wine Pairing with SESCO Lighting & Southern Clay Brick Company
Coffee with Sponsors
CityWalk Birmingham – March Chapter Meeting
Stormwater Impacts & The Future of Green Infrastructure Implementation – April Chapter Meeting
Fifth Dimension Firm Tour
Design Awards People’s Choice Exhibit
Design Awards Ceremony
GMC Firm Tour
Healthcare Symposium with IIDA – August Chapter Meeting
UAB New Student Organization Facility Site Visit
Scalable Affordability – September Chapter Meeting
Newly Licensed Architects
2323 Site Visit
Sponsor & Member Appreciation Tradeshow
Fright Night at TopGolf with Bell & McCoy Lighting and Controls
AIA Birmingham Holiday Party
Procrastination Education
Planning Meeting with AIA Birmingham’s 2024 Executive Committee!

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Congratulations, Members!

We are thrilled to extend our heartfelt congratulations to many of our members for their outstanding achievements and well-deserved awards this year. AIA Birmingham takes pride in sharing in the success of these exceptional architects, and their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to us all.

Lee Bryant, Barrett Architecture Studio – Newly Licensed Architect
Emily Lopez, Christopher Architecture & Interiors – Newly Licensed Architect
Cheryl Morgan, FAIA – Presented the Gold Medal of Honor by AIA Alabama
Rachel Perry, Williams Blackstock Architect – Newly Licensed Architect
Doug Shaddix, ArchitectureWorks – Newly Licensed Architect
Christian Smoke, KPS Group – Newly Licensed Architect

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Partnered Efforts

We are thrilled to reflect on the impactful events we had the privilege of partnering with the Alabama Center for Architecture (ACFA), that have left an enduring mark on the educational landscape for aspiring architects.

dreamARCHITECTURE –

An annual elementary school outreach program is an art competition that encourages K-5 children to think about their built environment. Contest themes vary each year, allowing students to express their creativity through drawing their dream house, zoo, park, and more.

Thank you to our members and sponsors who got involved with dreamARCHITECTURE: Draw Your Dream Home this year:

Adams Gerndt Design Group
ArchitectureWorks
B Group Architecture
Christopher Architecture & Interiors
KPS Group
Paul Bates Architects
Revolutionary Architecture
Studio C Architecture
Thompson Architecture
TPD Architecture & Interiors

Get involved with the dreamARCHITECTURE 2024 Program: Draw Your Dream Park!
Sponsorships available now!

Scholarship Luncheon –

The Alabama Center for Architecture is committed to investing in the future of the architecture profession by granting scholarships to exceptional architecture students from the state of Alabama. The ACFA Scholarship has given over $115,000 in scholarship dollars since its creation.

Every year, the ACFA hosts it’s annual Scholarship Luncheon to award outstanding architecture students with well-deserved scholarships. Attendees from all over the state gather to celebrate and support the next generation of talented minds who will shape the future of architecture with their passion and dedication.

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Looking Forward to 2024….

As we eagerly step into the new year, we anticipate even greater opportunities for collaboration and growth. Stay up to date with all of our happenings on our social media channels:

Facebook: @AIA Birmingham
Instagram: @aiabirmingham

Join us in welcoming Erin Garrett Epperson to Karma Management Inc. / AIA Birmingham!

Erin graduated from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor’s in Creative Media and a minor in Communications. During her time on campus, she worked on multiple student-led films as a videographer, assistant director, lighting tech, and postproduction editor. Erin’s time working on sets allowed her to be part of a student short film that made it into the film festival circuit. Erin has seven years of hospitality and customer service experience and has worked with wine and craft cocktails for the last five years. Her favorite cocktail to drink is a traditional rum daiquiri, and her favorite to make is an espresso martini. After graduation, Erin started freelancing in film and photography, helping small businesses build their own unique brand and create an online presence. Through freelancing, she has been able to work with butcher shops, salons, and local musicians. Through photography and film, Erin is able to express her passion by working hands-on and helping people bring their company’s vision to fruition. Erin grew up with two chefs in the family and enjoys cooking and exploring Birmingham’s new restaurants. With the rest of her spare time, she loves to go see live music, knit, and travel around the world. In October 2023, Erin started her career with Karma Management Inc., and is excited to jump into a new role. She brings to AIA Birmingham her experience and passion for film and photography. It will be fun to see what this means for AIA Birmingham in 2024. Lights, camera, action – get ready Birmingham to be on film! Be sure to welcome Erin to the AIA Birmingham Family when you meet her.

Email Erin with any questions, concerns, or recipes at erin@karmamanagementinc.com!

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