Happy 167th Birthday, AIA! The American Institute of Architects started with an invitation from Richard Upjohn, the architect of New York’s Trinity Church and many other notable religious facilities. He asked his colleagues to gather in his office on February 23, 1857. In response, 12 architects joined Upjohn to form the organization that would bring prominence to – and profoundly change – the profession of architecture. This small group created a professional society defined by five original objects:
I. To promote the aesthetic, scientific, and practical efficiency of the profession.
II. To advance the science and art of planning and building by advancing the standards of practice.
III. To coordinate the building industry, and the profession of architecture.
IV. To ensure the advancement of the living standards of people through their improved environment.
V. To make the profession of ever-increasing service to society.
The AIA has remained dedicated to these core principles throughout its history. Thankfully, transformation and progression have led the organization to devote mounting focus, resources, and advocacy on the fifth object, which emphasizes our duty as architects to society:
· We stand for equity and human rights.
· We stand for architecture that strengthens our communities.
· We stand for a sustainable future.
· We stand for protecting communities from the impact of climate change.
· We stand for economic opportunity.
· We stand for investing in the future.
These core values, pulled from the website, drive the AIA and its members – collectively and individually – toward our calling to make the world a better place through the power of design. As the singing concludes and the candles are blown out (this year and every year), I am all in for this calling! You are as well, yes?!?
Photo credit: Shawn Ishihara, December 2013
Happy Birthday AIA!
The Three Aspens 