FALL 2016
ISSUE NO. 2
Schools Students Libraries Jeremy Hughes (pictured) and other Georgia Architecture Students to Look out for What you've been missing in the Marcel Breuer Library Debacle and more!
I became an architect to make a long-lasting impact on communities; to lift spirits, to add value to people’s lives and to positively shape the way people live and use space. Joseph Lai, AIA Member since 2012
Join me. aia.org/join
Join today and get free registration to AIA Convention 2017!* *Some restrictions apply. Review terms and conditions at aia.org/join.
JAN GEHL:
FIRST LIFE, THEN SPACES, THEN BUILDING -- THE OTHER WAY AROUND NEVER WORKS
PRESIDENT ' S NOTE I am pleased to bring you this Fall 2016 edition of The Citizen Architect magazine. When members talk about the ways AIA can raise awareness of the value of our profession and our work, we often think of conventional methods like media advertisements, letters to the editor, or public presentations. All excellent and important activities. But we can also bring tremendous value when our members bring the themes and problem-solving approaches of architecture to the world outside of our profession. Here, I am talking about serving in public office, on design commissions, nonprofit boards of directors, or any other activity that affects our communities, and where the mind of an architect can help that group to see and organize the problem differently. The other side of Citizen Architecture is the member who is doing socially responsible design inside of their firm, and using elevated design to improve their communities. This issue focuses on our profession’s commitment to our primary school system, beyond the construction of the buildings in that system. I am particularly pleased by the article about former AIA Georgia board member and current SCAD student Jeremy Hughes, who has created a coloring book in partnership with the City of Atlanta inspiring children to recycle. You will also find great stories about the Drew Charter School in Atlanta, and a timeline of the Marcel Breuer masterpiece of the Atlanta Fulton County Central Library. Please enjoy this great collection of stories, and then share with us the experiences you have had with the Citizen Architects in your own communities and chapters. And of course, Share this widely with your networks, making the case of how architecture is making the world a better place for all of us.
p. 9
CARTLANTA coloring book
p. 12
Drew Charter School
p. 45
Theresa Ridley 2016 AIA Georgia President
Marcel Breuer Timeline
table of con tents 04 President's Note SCAD Architecture 09 Student Partners with City of Atlanta tour of the 12 ADrew School 48 Hours Competition: 15 Designing libraries for the future.
09
12
28 How to Write the Perfect Business Email
15
33
33 Georgia's Next Up and Coming Architects? 38 Unpaid Labor Resolution Advice from Hiring 41 Managers: How to land that JOB 45 Atlanta-Fulton Library: A timeline
45
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
Quarterly Magazine
Our Staff AIA Georgia Board of Directors
Theresa C. Ridley, AIA President Neil Dawson, AIA President-Elect Gregory Walker, AIA Past President Michael Tchouaffe, AIA Secretary Perry Jarrell, AIA Treasurer Ralph Raymond, AIA, NOMA Director Gerry Cowart Director Nicole Seekely, AIA Director Kathryn L. Bedette, AIA Director Steven G. Stowers, AIA Director Nicole Hilton, AIA, NOMA Director Michael A. White, Sr., AIA Director Gloria Woods, NOMAS Student Director (Georgia Tech) Editor in Chief: Steven Stowers Staff Writers: David Southerland, Lynn Robinson Staff Editor/Designer: Lynn Robinson CONTRIBUTORS: David Southerland; Hsu-Jen Huang, AIA; Krista Dumkrieger, AIA; Malachi Gordon; Greg Walker, AIA; REVIEWER: Tangela Monroe OFFICES 100 Edgewood Avenue NE Suite 190, Atlanta, GA 30303 www.aiaga.org The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Board of Directors or the American Institute of Architects.
CITIZEN ARCHITECT Quarterly Magazine
AIA ATLANTA INVITES YOU TO
BUILD SOMETHING
G R E A T
AIA Atlanta’s most prestigious and highest-attended event of the year! The celebration will unite a diverse audience of those passionate about great design, architecture and sustainability, and will showcase the Residential Design and Honor Awards. AIA Fellow Frank Harmon, founder and principal of Raleigh-based architectural firm Frank Harmon Architect PA, will serve as keynote speaker, revealing how he “built” a successful firm and a career spanning roughly 50 years.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2016 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
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P L AT I N U M S P O NS O R
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FRANK HARMON, FAIA
AIA Members Nonmembers
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
SAVING ATLANTA... ONE CRAYON AT A TIME Interview by Lynn Robinson
As an Atlanta native, helping his community became a push for pursuing a degree in architecture. Who knew his architecture degree would lead to a side venture in coloring book illustration? For Jeremy Hughes, that is exactly what happened.
Jeremy isn’t your typical architecture student. He doesn’t have dreams of being a 'Starkitect'. He’s much rather be a tool for societal change. He wants to change ideas through his designs and inspire inner-reflection.
Meet any architect and you will likely catch them doodling in the corner of a page. It’s not that they are less engaged but that their mind never stops creating. It was in this absence of mind while scanning documents during his summer job at the City of Atlanta Office of Transportation, Jeremy was scouted for his abilities.
“Word of Recycling” follows our narrator Allison who after learning about recycling and the programs in the city, runs home to share with her parents. With her parents she goes and learns more and gets the community involved. Throughout the coloring book kids learn what can be recycled and what exciting things those recycled goods can be made into.
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FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
“build connections in
Jeremy lauds this program as a chance to
program as a chance to
“build connections in the community”. He
the community”. He imagines a future for
responsibility is the basic foundation for
imagines a future for architects and
architects and architecture playing an
our sustainable design standards today."
architecture playing an essential part in
essential part in creating a discourse on
creating a discourse on breaking the status
breaking the status quo
That conversation has changed architecture
regard for the environment.
to practice more sustainable methods. So, I
—building without regard for the
quo
—building without
environment.
aspect entailed them to do. This shared
took this coloring book as an opportunity
“The grandfathers of architecture would
to communicate the essential task of
“The grandfathers of architecture would
make a building without fully taking in to
recycling and sustainability.”
make a building without fully taking in to
account the environment. Although their
account the environment. Although their
works went down in history, there was a true
"Recycling is a way for us to get more
works went down in history, there was a true
and oftentimes negative impact on the
involved with our community, families,
and oftentimes negative impact on the
environment. At that point citizens became
and city. The perks help connect businesses
environment. At that point citizens became
more conscious and architects couldn’t just
to the locals and also pushes the discipline
more conscious and Jeremy lauds this
make decisions on what their design
to a habit after time moves on. "
Find more of Jeremy's work at xoillustrations.com
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 10
ADA LOUISE HUXTABLE:
WHAT COUNTS MORE THAN STYLE IS WHETHER ARCHITECTURE IMPROVES OUR EXPERIENCE OF THE BUILT WORLD; WHETHER IT MAKES US WONDER WHY WE NEVER NOTICED PLACES IN QUITE THIS WAY BEFORE.
How
205,000
b square feet
changed
a ne ig hborhood
DREW
CHARTER SCHOOL aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 12
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
The project Excerpt and photos courtesy of Perkins+Will. Expansively spreading across the rise of a hill, the crescent-shaped Charles R. Drew Charter School Junior and Senior Academy proudly embraces its pastoral campus near downtown Atlanta. Set on one of the highest points in the city, the new campus is located on what was once the ‘back nine’ of a public golf course, and finds inspiration in the existing landscape forms and views to the city beyond. Located in the historic East Lake neighborhood of Atlanta-- an area that was once notorious for being one of the most impoverished, crime-ridden communities in America, this signature building is a new symbol for the community’s transformation, and completes the vision of this charter school’s leadership to transform lives through a “cradle-tocollege” education. Drew Charter School offers a unique project based curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, innovation and problem solving. To help achieve this vision, the design team embraced the challenge to create a 21st century facility that would prepare students to succeed in a world that is constantly changing, global, and technologically driven. As the program evolved, the new building was designed to house a relocated and expanded 6th through 8th grade and the new 9th through 12th grade. The public front door is on the building’s south facade while the main classroom level has on-grade access on the north side of the building. A large four-story lobby atrium which is incorporated into the shared Learning Commons separates the Middle School on the high end of the site from the High School on the lower end of the site. This atrium and stair with stadium seating at the main entrance acts as the circulation linchpin for the 205,000-square-foot school.
13 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
a Linear Plaz
e beyond s and skylin ld ie F c ti le Ath Views to the
Because project based learning is centered on three core steps--inquire, make and share-integrating technology was a key design element to the success of the school. At Drew, large format projection capabilities are located in labs, classrooms and public areas. Interactive flat panel displays are located in every direct instruction room. The project lab, a large flexible space outfitted with technology, presentation equipment, mobile and reconfigurable furniture, and utilities such as water and power, is intended to provide a completely flexible environment that is student centered. These labs are distributed throughout the school with each grade level having access to their own lab, and provide the building block for the educational process. Drew Charter School is an example of a high performance school that intelligently responds to its environment while supporting educational programs. Tracking LEED Gold certification, the school features state-of-the-art building materials and systems to create an environment that provides maximum daylighting for learning spaces and maintains energy efficiencies ahead of standards.
Curve
es wall captur ass curtain gl , e av nc o The c room every class daylight for
cy Transparen d out encourage
inside an Glass walls ration d colloabo n a y it s io r cu
Linear Pla za Gla
ss walls in side and o ut encour curiosity a age nd colloab oration
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 14
S R H 8 4 t e p m o C BY KRISTA DUMKRIEGER
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Check out the 2016
n o i t i t Libraries have become a hot topic in Atlanta
Winning Designs!
recently with the Marcel Breuer library
This year marks the 6th Young Architects Forum
resource has become the norm. To Google and
(YAF) design competition known as 48 HRS. The
Wikipedia something is second nature; far more so
Young Architects Forum Atlanta (YAF Atlanta) is
than referencing an encyclopedia. Our population
a public forum formed to address issues and
has stratified, becoming dominated by the
discuss topics relevant to young architecture and
Millennials and the Baby Boomers
design professionals in the Metro Atlanta area (10
generations that both seek a new type of
years or less after licensure).
community that offers walkable amenities and
– two
easily accessible services.
48 HRS is a competition originally developed to give young architects opportunities to work on
It is in this climate that the fate of the Central
high profile/large design projects they otherwise
Library has come under question. Designed by the
would not have access to. Highlighting the design
late Marcel Breuer, the Central Library opened in
skills of these young architects allows them skills
1980, and was on the cutting edge of library design
and credentials which can serve to further their
at the time. Just as Breuer integrated innovative
career paths.
features such as drive through service, underground
é
parking and a caf , this year’s competition asked In her first year co-chairing the 48 HRS
participants to examine our society today. What
competition with Jereme Smith, Krista and her
features do we need to respond to our needs? And
YAF committee decided to look at creating a
what will the library of the future look like? This
mobile library.
“A couple of things we talk about
year’s design prompt is a nature inspired and
frequently is how mobile our society has become
technology driven mobile library that will guide
and also how we have a lot of income disparity and
readers to their local library branch.
a rapidly aging population, all of which means a lot of folks don’t have access to resources,
” says
Krista
Deliverables with the submissions included: a plan, section and 3D rendering/image as well as diagrams and a 1000-word max outline of the
The world is changing.
program and function.
Society has become more mobile; gone are the
The winners were announced at AIA Atlanta’s
days of home telephones and desktop computers.
Urban Fronts Gala, Thursday, September 22, 2016
Dependency on technology as an information
at the Oddfellows building on Auburn Street.
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 16
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
City Media Garden
BY ALEJANDRA LOPEZ AND TRENTON MCGUGIN
1st Place Winner City media garden proposes a transformation
The library, made up of three pods connected
Citizens from all over Atlanta have the
of the library as we know it. It aims to
by hinges, fold out to accommodate varying
ability to visit the library while it is in their
become the nexus between the central
groups of people and activities. The pods are
neighborhood and
library and the greater community of
enclosed with interactive touch screens
grow vertical crops. Visitors can choose
Atlanta, providing a place for people to
anchored on a moveable framework that
from hundreds of books on the interactive
gather, ideas to be shared, imaginations to
allow them to rotate and vary the qualities of
digital library wall, where books are stored
run free, and knowledge to be gained.
the space within.
on USBs and available for check-out. The
City media garden embraces the digital age
These screens can act as study tools,
the community’s evolving needs, both
and shifts the focus of the collection from
entertainment centers, or informational
technologically and spatially. It is an idea
physical books to digital media. The pod is
displays. The framework also stores a
of the library as a place that is more than
transportable to any destination in the city
panelized vertical garden that allows visitors
just for books and individual study
by trailer, conformable to the constraints of
to explore the overlap between nature and
becomes a place for community gardening,
whatever neighborhood it inhabits.
technology.
gathering, sharing, and discovery.
“check-out” panels to
city media garden provides resources for
– it
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 18
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
the Network
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
BY STEPHANIE BAKER
2nd Place Winner
The Network is made up of a system of "sub-hives" that communicate with one another through their physicality and the integrated system of technology implemented within each compartment's interconnecting walls. Each group of sub-hives is connected to the others and displays messages or images when physically engaged.
These connections trigger a link back to the Central Library where any individual or group can participate in information sharing or engage in an impromptu person-to-person video game while waiting for their train or for their phone to charge.
The intersection at MART A's Peachtree Center Station is busy with pedestrians, cars and buses through most of the day - most of whom pass through the area with an occasional person waiting for the light rail.
This location offers a real opportunity to entice people into spending a few extra minutes to catch up on politics, take a language course, play a game or research their favorite team's current stats while on a lunch break or waiting to meet up with friends. The Network is meant to provide convenience and security while adding an element of fun to get people engaged with the library.
Groups of hives are equipped to communicate with other hives around the area including the Central or local) Library. Occupants can use the space to play games with other users in another hive or simply check on the train times while they wait out the weather.
The Network is easily transportable as each hive is able to be tilted on its side and interlocked with a partner hive and able to link into a trailer for hauling. As many as ten hives can be transported within a 60-foot long tow. The roofs are removable and can fit in the space between the linked hives.
19 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
"Although nature commences with reason and ends in experience it is necessary for us to do the opposite, that is to commence with experience and from this to proceed to investigate the reason.'' Leonardo Da Vinci
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
3rd Place Winner
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
AV Library BY ZACHARY NELSON AND JON PHARIS
People today are more connected to each other than ever before through technology, and society had started to move at a faster pace. Nature continues to transform and change to adapt to the daily pace of the modern life. Services that are available to the public need to do the same to survive.
Every year trees consolidate their external features until the spring where they unpack their leaves, so they can provide energy and services needed for the tree and the environment. Services need to follow the same model and adapt to the environment around them. A mobile library that can unpack it-self and power itself when needed, to provide the society with culture and knowledge through a vehicle that caters to society’s current language can change the way people learn and interact.
The AV library uses virtual reality, audio-books, interactive screens, and books to help facilitate growth through both social interaction and discovery.
ENERGY CONSERVATION - PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS ARE INSTALLED ON THE ROOF TO HARVEST SUNLIGHT FOR THE TRAILER. - RAIN WATER IS COLLECTED AND STORE UNDER THE DECK FOR ANY WATER NEEDS.
21 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
BAR: - SERVES DRINKS (COFFEE, BEER, AND WINE) TO PATRONS USING THE SPACE.
VIRTUAL REALITY SPACE: - VIRTUAL REALITY STATION ALLOWS PEOPLE TO INSERT THEMSELVES INTO STORES FROM
INTIMATE SPACE:
THEIR FAVORITE GENRE OF NOVELS.
- HOOKS ANCHORED TO BACK WALL FOR
WALL PANEL 1:
RECOMMENDED BOOKS ARE GIVEN TO THEM
HAMMOCK ATTACHMENT.
ON THEIR STORY SELECTION.
- CREATES A BARRIER BETWEEN THE
-SITTING PODS CAN BE ARRANGED FOR
PRIVATE AND PUBLIC SPACE.
INDIVIDUAL USE.
- CONTAINS SMALL PUBLIC BOOKSHELF - SLIDE INTO CHASSIS FOR TRANSPORTATION
WALL PANEL 2: - BARRIER CAN BE ROTATED AROUND TO VARYING POSITIONS TO CHANGE THE LEVEL OF INTIMACY REQUIRED. - ONE PANEL OF THE WALL HAS A SCREEN TO SHOW OFF THE VIRTUAL REALITY
HYDRAULIC PLATFORM:
SLIDING PLANKS: - ALUMINUM PLANKS CAN BE PULLED OUT TO CREATE A SMALL SITTING SPACE FOR GROUPS
THE MOMENT.
ACCOMMODATE HANDICAP PERSONS.
- SLIDES INTO THE CHASSIS
- CAN BE USED AS A SMALL STAGE FOR MUSIC OR
FOR TRANSPORTATION.
THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES. - STORED UNDER MAIN DECK FOR TRANSPORTATION
OR INDIVIDUALS. THEY CAN ALSO BE USED AS STEPS TO GET INSIDE THE CHASSIS. - PLANKS CAN BE SLID UNDER THE MAIN DECK FOR TRANSPORTATION.
STORY IN PROGRESS AT
- PLATFORM CAN BE RAISED UP AND DOWN TO
SITTING PODS: TECHNOLOGY PANEL:
- LIGHTWEIGHT PODS CAN BE ARRANGED
- ELECTRONIC PANEL USED TO EMIT WI-FI ALLOW FOR
FOR GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL USE.
PHONE CHARGING, AND TO GET A LIBRARY CARD.
- EACH POD HAS SPEAKERS TO PLAY A
- ELECTRONIC TOUCH DISPLAY ON THE INSIDE OF THE
SELECTION OF AUDIO-BOOKS OR MUSIC.
CHASSIS SHOWS A CURRENT PARK MAP AND THE EASIST
- PODS CAN STACK AND BE STORED IN THE
ROUTES TO THE NEAREST LIBRARIES. PATRONS CAN CYCLE
UNIT FOR TRANSPORTATION.
THROUGH MAPS OF LOCAL MARKETS, MAPS, OF LOCAL TRANSIT SYSTEMS, LOCAL HISTORY, AND INFORMATION ON ENERGY CONSERVATION (SOLAR, WATER, AND WASTE).
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 22
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
2016 Honorable Mention
The way we access information has experienced a recent shift. Libraries have found themselves forgotten in a sea of technology where "instant" rules supreme. Atlanta li braries have become vulnerable during this recent shift. Their presence is lost amongst the rapid pace the Internet offers.
In the deepest, darkest ocean waters, angler-fish are still able to hunt. They possess a lu minescent organ removed away from their main body that allows them to find and at tract food (Fig l ). In the age of click-bait, libraries must evolve to attract patrons or else risk their very existence in our city fabric.
The Central Library in downtown Atlanta is a prime example of an architecturally im portant hub of knowledge that is being underutilized by the people who pass it's loca tion daily. We are proposing that The Central Library evolve.
With the potential of offering an array of information and services remotely, our pro posed design will act as a beacon for the greater library. Internet access, a book de pository, and interactive puzzles are just a few of the features that this proposed design could offer. With it's visually bold design attracting the pedestrian gaze, it aims to engage the otherwise uninterested public (Fig. 2).
Not all will take the added steps into the library, but we are attempting to provide an approachable object that promotes and reinforces the importance of the library it serves.
23 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
Magnet Pavilion BY MAXIM KOVTOUN AND LINDA KOVTOUN
.
We cover buildings with cladding
,
At MillerClapperton
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We cover people with our knowledge
our industry knowledge allows us to serve as an advisor for architects and
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a specialty partner to general contractors
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We keep our word
'
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you will find individuals that are accountable
.
stand behind our process for building it right and driving projects forward
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We re committed to engineer
,
fabricate and install flawlessly
,
AT MILLERCLAPPERTON WE HAVE YOU
.
,
Here
millerclapperton com
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AND YOUR BUILDING
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each and every time
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COVERED
@
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MillerClapperton
College Football Hall of Fame | Photo Credit: MillerClapperton
ALLIED MEMBERSHIP REVAMPED RETHOUGHT
Our members bring an immeasurable amount of experience and influence to Georgia and beyond and continue to be key play makers in where our communities are headed. What they share: A passion for design, a conviction that good design matters and a commitment to improving lives through the built environment. We have revamped our allied membership program to give you a more robust set of benefits to provide you with year-round exposure and industry involvement
CREATE
SHARE
CONNECT
Advertising just right for your company to be featured in our monthly and quarterly publications
Use our webinar tool and lunch n' learn schedule to let your products shine.
Connect with design+build professionals at our events and meetings around the State.
HTTP://AIAGA.ORG/ALLIED
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT:
MAYBE WE CAN SHOW GOVERNMENT HOW TO OPERATE BETTER AS A RESULT OF BETTER ARCHITECTURE
KEYS TO 3SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS EMAILS THEHONESTYHOUR.COM
1 RELEVANCE
When someone receives an email, they first assess its relevance and importance. To a busy professional overwhelmed by mail, a message not addressed to the appropriate person will be considered less important and may not be given an
Email is the most efficient and reliable form of business
immediate response. It’s common sense: be sure
correspondence, especially when used correctly. Nearly
they are the intended recipient of your inquiry.
everyone has at least one email address, while some of us have a dozen or so. (Yes, don’t judge.) From planning
While it’s not the end of the world to contact the
meetings to discussing classified foreign policy, having email
wrong person, it undermines the efficiency and
at our fingertips is almost too convenient at times.
delays your response. Often, messages get lost and forgotten about when forwarded to another
In order for email to be efficient, there are important rules of
person. In your greeting, address the reader by
etiquette to follow. The three keys to a successful business
name. A lone “Hi” or “Good morning” says you
emails are relevance, concision and clarity. First, you must
aren’t sure of who you are emailing and you
make clear to the reader how your message is relevant to
haven’t done your research. Also, spell their name
them. Second, you should say the most with the least
correctly. Misspelling the recipient’s name is the
amount of words. Third, be as specific as possible to
easiest way to make a bad first impression and be
minimize ambiguity and the back-and-forth.
ignored.
aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 28
REVIEW
2
CONCISION
A business email is not a love letter. Save the fluff and get to the point rather quickly. Following a brief introduction, share the information or ask the question you have, and offer details
RELEVANT
afterwards. Establishing your point in the beginning gives the
Send your message to the right person or group.
reader a clear idea of what the message will entail and motivates them to read further. In other words, the reader wants to immediately know what is being asked of him or her. This is called front-loading. No one wants to waste time reading paragraph after
CONCISE
paragraph only to find at the end a question that could have been
Your email should be to-thepoint from the beginning.
and miss important details. So, share the news or ask the question
answered in one or two sentences. If you don’t front-load your point, the reader may feel overwhelmed, skim through the message first, and then supply just enough details to help the reader give an informed response.
3 CLARITY
CLEAR Be understood and remember formatting helps clarity.
Within the body of your email, be as succinct as possible. Write in an active voice while avoiding jargon. Be explicit and unambiguous. Proofread and check for redundancy. Writing as clearly as possible makes your message easy to read and understand, thus easy to respond to. This is important when either asking a question or providing information such as instructions for completing a task. In any form of communication, your goal is to not only be understood, but to avoid being misunderstood as well.
Clarity also applies to visual presentation. Long paragraphs are an overwhelming, inefficient way to present important information to your reader. If your message runs long, give close attention to its format to make it easier on the reader’s eye. Use bold headers to break up text and direct the reader’s attention to key details. Implement bulleted and numbered lists when possible. Also consider including separate attachments rather that typing all of the details in the email body.
BONUS:
HOW TO GIVE BAD NEWS
Bad news messages follow a somewhat different format than those asking questions or providing positive information. For the latter, you state your point early on. For bad news, it’s best to use a little buffer. Instead of sharing negative news immediately, sandwich it between positives. Establish goodwill in the beginning and reconnect with positive feelings in closing. And though the goal is to be tactful, still aim for concision. As an example, think of a job rejection letter:
29 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
2019 FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
October
“Thank you for applying for a position at Business XYZ. Although we were more than impressed with your experience, we have decided to pursue a candidate whose qualifications more closely match this position. We encourage you to apply for another position in the future. Again, thank you for your interest in employment at Business XYZ.” In this example, the message begins with a positive approach, delivers the bad news and softens the blow at the end.
LAST
TIPS
Remember to give people time to respond to your emails before sending that follow-up. A “reasonable” time for a response varies, but for non-urgent questions three to five business days seems courteous. Lastly, be mindful of the CC and BCC email features. An abbreviation for carbon copy, CC means that all recipients in this field will receive a copy of the email. These addresses will be visible to every other recipient, posing a privacy risk. It’s also annoying to receive copies of emails that aren’t relevant to you and get stuck in conversations with people who stupidly click “reply all.” Being included on a mass email and having your address made available to people you don’t know is never fun. BCC stands for blind carbon copy, also sending a copy of the email to a list of recipients. However, the “blind” feature hides recipients’ emails. Try to use BCC more. It gives recipients more privacy and helps everyone escape the email chain trap.
AIA Georgia
Introducing the new AIA Georgia Career Center
careers.aiaga.org
In honor of John D. Mulford III, graduate of Southern Polytechnic State University. After graduation Mulford served with multinational peacekeeping forces in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. Upon returning home Mulford settled in Charlotte, NC where he worked as an intern architect on projects including the Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami, FL. In 1992 Mulford relocated to Atlanta, GA and becamed an active Associate AIA member. After a brief illness Mulford met an untimely death in Dec. 1992.
AWARDS
Up to $3,000 depending on available funding. Scholarship awards are based on a statement of goals, academic performance, letters of recommendation, student leadership and community involvement.
DEADLINE
Applications are due Monday, February 6th 2017
ELIGIBILITY
Students enrolled at Kennesaw State University’s NAAB accredited degree program. During the 2017-2018 academic year, students must be in their third, fourth or fi fth year of a fi ve-year program resulting in a bachelor of architecture degree. To apply, contact Mine Hashas.
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
Des Georgia's Architecture Students
Georgia boasts three nationally ranked architecture programs. For this issue, AIA Georgia worked with professor Hsu-Jen Huang, AIA of Savannah College of Art and Design to pinpoint and recognize exemplary students and their works as undergraduate and graduates in the Architecture program. 33 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
Students in
sign A curated group of SCAD architecture students to watch out for.
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Daniel C. Reynolds Strengthening Democracy Through Transparency: Connecting the Public and State at NSA. M.Arch thesis by Daniel C. Reynolds (M.Arch 2016)
Eli Lurie (M.Arch) Ever since I was a young child I knew I wanted to build things. Whether it was with blocks, ink, or sand, I was always creating architecture of all types. The built environment was always a draw for me. My parents would take me on trips to see what I was interested in at that time, from seeing all of the bridges along the Hudson River, to driving around all of Cape Cod to see the lighthouses. This fascination for the built environment brought me to Savannah, where I have been able to expand my horizons and pursue my passions. I have just graduated with my Bachelor of Fine Arts in both Architecture and Historic Preservation, and have started graduate school at SCAD to start my Masters in Architecture. As I approach my thesis I have been thinking a great deal about what architecture means to me and personally I feel that existing infrastructure is the future of architecture. Yes, new construction has its place, but adaptive reuse is where I see the future. I would love to one day specialize in adaptive reuse, making use of this countries abundance of underutilized infrastructure. 35 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
Maria B. Barragan "Redefiniendo Raices" by Maria B. Barragan (M.Arch 2016)
Jesús Alberto Pineda (BFA) My name is Jesus Alberto Pineda, I am 19 years old and I am from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. I am a junior in Architecture at SCAD and I want to help my surroundings and cause a positive impact into people’s lives by being an architect. I think that through architecture I will be able to contribute into any environment I am and I wish that through the work I do or projects I get involve in I will be able to create a better place.
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Natalie Imran Illusion the Eternal: The Palimpsest of Spectacle, M.Arch thesis by Natalie Imran (M.Arch 2016)
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
UNPAID LABOR RESOLUTION
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
Our goals for updating this policy were pretty simple: twenty years since its first adoption, the Policy should be refreshed and updated to reflect changes within the profession itself over this time.
The Call
A Bit of History
AIA Georgia, along with numerous chapters throughout the
In the mid-1990’s, the national American Institute of
AIA community, believe that it is wrong to award our
Architecture Students developed and implemented a policy
highest honors to individuals and firms that violate both AIA
that would guide their choices of speakers, awardees, and
and federal employment policy by utilizing unpaid labor.
honorees for events, seeking to have any potential
We asked AIA members to use the business meeting at the
recipients acknowledge that they had not and were not
National Conference in Philadelphia in May to update its
using unpaid interns in the course of their business. The
policies to make this commitment clear and unequivocal.
AIA, on recommendation of the AIAS, adopted a variation of this policy and extended it to a part of all national honors and awards programs.
The Resolution AIA Georgia introduced a Resolution, which proposes that AIA chapters across the nation take action at the AIA Convention to update the Intern Declaration Policy, for a variety of reasons. The most important reason for this update is to make clear that AIA considers the use of unpaid labor to be unethical, and that it should require nominees for its highest honors to affirm that they have not used illegal hiring and employment practices through unpaid work arrangements – and have not done so for a period of 10 years. Additionally, this amendment eliminates the use of the term “intern” and bring it in alignment with recent changes in the profession.
The Changes Clarification and update of the terminology for unpaid work and "interns". The policy explicitly recognizes an honor applicant’s adherence to Federal labor laws. The policy clarifies and explicitly recognizes a sustained commitment to the use of unpaid labor over a reasonable amount of time, as was the original intent. Individual candidates and applicants will need to explicitly acknowledge they’ve read the policy, not just the person submitting the application. In the case of a Gold Medal or Firm of the Year, a nominator filling out the application could acknowledge the policy. *The policy does not prescribe a process for addressing a
*This policy change does not impact the very effective workstudy programs in place, where students work without financial compensation, but do receive class credit for their work contributions.
potential ‘challenge’ to an awardee who is reasonably suspected of violating the Policy and it does not debate the merits of various minimum wage laws, nor the merits of ‘working wage’ initiatives.
The resolution passed at the Philadelphia National Convention with the highest percentage of yes votes in decades. It will go into effect nationally with the 2017 Honor Awards. AIA Georgia and AIA Atlanta have adopted this policy locally in 2016.
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EZRA POUND:
A REAL BUILDING IS ONE ON WHICH THE EYE CAN LIGHT AND STAY LIT
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
WHAT A COUPLE OF TOP FIRMS ARE LOOKING FOR? A LOOK INSIDE THE HIRING PROCESS
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
CAN YOU BRIEFLY EXPLAIN WHAT THE HIRING PROCESS IS LIKE FOR YOUR OFFICE? COOPER CARRY All applicants must apply through our portal for consideration. Complete resumes with portfolios attached or linked are reviewed by HR. Those meeting the minimum criteria for the position are forwarded to the hiring managers for review. Selected candidates are contacted directly for interviews. In all locations, we have designated Partners who do the interviews and selection of candidates. That way we get a consistent comparison of credentials, skills and fit for the studios with open positions.
Model by Brandon Aultman (Kennesaw State University)
STEVENS & WILKINSON We are 100 year old architecture firm and we have a relationship with Georgia Tech. A lot of candidates come from GT through our scholarship program. Around 50-70% of interns come from Georgia Tech.
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WHAT IS THE TOP WAY(S) YOU ACQUIRE YOUR NEW HIRES? STEVENS & WILKINSON We are 100 year old architecture firm and we have a relationship with Georgia Tech. A lot of candidates come from GT through our scholarship program. Around 5070% of interns come from Georgia Tech. COOPER CARRY There are a number of ways; internal referrals, postings on job boards, college recruiting all are good sources for us. We sometimes use recruiters but that isn’t at the top of our list.
WHAT ARE YOU PRIMARILY LOOKING FOR IN AN ARCHITECTURE APPLICANT’S RESUME/ PORTFOLIO? STEVENS & WILKINSON In terms of portfolio, we are looking for evidence that they can do the job and consider someone’s portfolio as an example of work already done within a timeframe. Portfolio’s can demonstrate whether or not a person can do the job. Resumes should be effective with no grammatical errors. This seems very simple but you'd be surprised how many resumes we get with misspelling or odd uses of punctuation. Also we look for resumes that do not rely on heavy graphic design.
Portfolio and model by Brandon Aultman (Kennesaw State University)
COOPER CARRY Talented designers and documentation experts. Successful registered candidates will have experience that fits our project types. A demonstrated ability to develop and sustain good working relationships with their team, clients, consultants and contractors is important to us.
TIP: Post your resumes and relevant experience to careers.aiaga.org and allow top firms and recruiters to reach out to you! aiaga.org/citizen-architect | 42
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
DO YOU HAVE ANY GENERAL TIPS FOR POTENTIAL APPLICANTS? STEVENS & WILKINSON Internships score high on resumes - show you have demonstrated knowledge and exposure to It is important to research the company – know what the company stands for, types of projects and the try to learn about the culture, which sometimes can be hard. It is important to be professional in interviews. If you don’t know something it is ok to say so especially when person is right out to school.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON REASONS FOR REJECTION? COOPER CARRY The online application must be complete. Beyond that, poorly written or formatted resumes are an indicator of attention to detail. Other reasons are frequent job changes and an inability to meet the required qualifications of the posted position.
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COOPER CARRY Make sure you are using the most current format for you resume. It is critical to have it proofread. Addressing the requirements of the position ties your knowledge and experience to the job. It may seem unnecessary or old school but cover letters make a difference, especially if there is something you need to clarify (I’m moving to your city in xx weeks with my relocating spouse). In regards to portfolios, they need to be up-to-date and representative of the work you have done. Portfolios are also a good opportunity to showcase your design talent and creativity. Be ready to present your portfolio and sell it. Prepare for the interview by reviewing whatever you can about the firm. Practice for the interview and make a video of yourself in a mock interview. You will learn much about your speech patterns and body language. Be genuine in your responses to best represent yourself. First impressions really do count.
TIP: Utilize AIA Resources like networking events and panel discussions to get in front of the right people and join committees within your interest field.
CAP RUOY GNITROPPUS aiaga.org/pac
The AIA GA PAC is AIA Georgia’s Political Action Committee – the only state political action committee representing architects in the state of Georgia. It is funded solely by individual and corporate contributions by AIA Georgia members and leading Georgia architecture firms, and then invested in elected officials and candidates for office who will most impact the laws and regulations for the profession. The PAC is one of the key components of AIA GA’s advocacy efforts - it is your voice, your strength and your access among those that set public policy at the state level, particularly in the General Assembly.
CITIZEN ARCHITECT
FALL | ISSUE NO. 2
E VM A AWRACLESLH BREUER
Data Specialist with 5 years of experience in digital marketing, data interpretation, and campaign analytics.
Atlanta - Fulton Public Library +1-515-555-0135 • erw@mail.com • Des Moines, WA
A complete and truncated timeline of the history of Atlanta's Brutal Masterpiece
TIMELINE OF EVENTS TIMELINE OF EVENTS 1976 1980
1980 2010
The last building designed under the Bauhaus movement, Digital Inc. the Atlanta Fulton County Library is Strategist, completed.Avana Breuer, Worked on maintaining the SEO unable to attend the opening passed a year later making of multiple campaigns this his last completed project.
Atlast thebuilding behest of the thenunder director of the Atlanta Public The designed Sytstem and inspired by Breuer's Whitney theLibrary Bauhaus movement, the Atlanta Museum Fulton (now County the Met Library Breuer) is a design is created for completed the new Atlanta Central Library including a theater, public reading space and restaurant.
2011 2002 2008 2012 In November 2008 legislation passed to direct $275
million of public funds Senior to the SEO construction of a more Manager, AI Media contemporary library,In a decision likelyand see charge ofthat thewould SEO team the destruction of Breuer’s final work. tasked with increasing revenue and search traffic growth
Lead SEO Manager, Avana Inc. The city of Atlanta spends Promoted within a year to $5 million on restoration. oversee multiple SEO operations
2010 The Central Library is listed on the 2010 World Monuments Watch List of Most Endangered Sites.
2013 JUNE 2016 AUGUST 2016 Atlanta county commissioners voted to renovate 2014 —rather than replace—Breuer’s structure. Commissioners also voted toData authorize bond funding Scientist, TechNews for the library. Analyzed and interpreted real 45 | aiaga.org/citizen-architect
time ad-market data
Senior Data Analyst, JetFlip passed a nonbinding The Atlanta City Council Responsible for data resolution to build acollection, new central library in the same analysis, and interpretation for location as Breuer’s structure, making demolition a multinational campaigns
strong possibility.
This timeline was compiled through information from the World Monuments Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered ancient and historic sites around the world.
ROLAND BARTHES:
ARCHITECTURE IS ALWAYS DREAM AND FUNCTION, EXPRESSION OF A UTOPIA AND INSTRUMENT OF A CONVENIENCE
University of Tennese Chattanooga Library
Services Offered: * Custom Curtainwall Systems * Architectural Window Systems * Storefronts and Entrance Doors * Fire Rated Glazing Systems * FRP Doors * Louvers & Solar Shading Devices * Translucent Wall Panels and Skylights * Interior Aluminum Systems
CASI is a manufacturer independent representative firm. We specialize in Division 8 related products.
THE FOUNDATION NEEDS YOUR HELP! We award scholarships to recognize rising design talent and to stoke social engagement; we shine a light on community builders and citizen architects for the examples they set; and we seek partnerships with like-minded people from every creative enterprise to advance the cause of decent shelter for Georgia families in need. The Architecture Foundation of Georgia thrives on and seeks the support of everyone who agrees that like architecture the cause of social justice is a big and worthy project, one we can only build by working together one day at a time. Please join us in this effort.
The Architecture Foundation of Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donation is tax deductible to the extent provided by law.
www.aiaga.org/afga