AIA Dallas

The Dallas CECAP, City Updates, and Implementation of Resilience Strategies
2025-02-28 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
In 2020 the Dallas City Council adopted the Comprehensive Environmental & Climate Action Plan (CECAP). Since that time, the City has taken great strides in accomplishing the goals within the plan. Simultaneously, the need for resilience has become a priority and steps are being worked on to improve Dallas’s resiliency as a whole. The Course will provide a baseline understanding of the Dallas CECAP, speak to updates and status of the goals within CECAP, and also discuss strategies for how we can become more resilience. Following the presentation, there will be 20 minutes for constructive conversation and discussion how attendees can implement these same Climate Action and Resiliency principals into their building projects and every day lives.
Learning Objectives:

Attendees will have an understanding of the Dallas Comprehensive Environmental & Climate Action Plan and the goals within it. The course will be focused on the topics that most closely relate to the Building Industry such as designing for net-zero energy construction, reducing water consumption, and reducing energy use in existing buildings.
Attendees will have an understanding of the status of the goals within their Climate Action Plan/ They will also be informed on the outcomes of the latest study, which researched the effects of urban heat island within Micro-climates in and around the Dallas metroplex.
Attendees will have a basic understanding of designing for resilience. They will understand what a “Resilience Center” is and what aspects will need to be incorporated in order for it to be considered resilient and work for the people who may one day need to use it or shelter there.
The Panel Discussion will be focused so that attendees will be able to take the learned concepts above and translate them over to their projects as designers. They will be able take the principles within the Climate Action Plan and the principals of resiliency and to start to incorporate aspects of these into their projects.

1.0 LU | HSW

Discover the Arts District Walking Tour
2025-03-01 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-03-15 10:00 - 12:00

Design Awards Committee Meeting
2025-03-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Columns Committee: Departments Meeting
2025-03-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
The Columns committee meets monthly to discuss upcoming pieces and publications. If you are interested in contributing to Columns, please contact Conleigh Bauer at cbauer@aiadallas.org.

Cross Pollination Happy Hour
2025-03-05 17:30 - 19:00
Most architects think of community engagement when working on public projects–we will hold meetings with neighborhood leaders and groups, incorporate feedback from public forums, and work towards a final design centered on the community. However, often times, when the project is done, the community engagement ends.
Join the Latinos in Architecture, Women in Architecture, LGBTQIA+ Alliance, and Emerging Professionals networks for a Happy Hour on Wednesday, March 5! We will discuss with local community leaders the benefits of ongoing community engagement through business chamber activities, how to become more involved with our various communities, and how volunteering can benefit employees and firm culture.

SFRT: Optimizing Daylight with Dimensional Materials within Insulated Glass (Okalux)
2025-03-06 11:30 - 13:30 | Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, 3520 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX, 75219, United States
Please RSVP to Brad Russell via email by clicking the red “RSVP” button above and using the subject line “RSVP for March 6th”
Program Overview: This program addresses and describes various glazing options for maximizing daylight, controlling solar heat
gain, maximizing visibility and view, minimizing reflections, controlling glare, and optimizing energy efficiency.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this program the architects should be able to meet the following performance criteria:

Understand how to utilize dimensional materials for controlling daylight and solar heating
Describe at least four major benefits to using dimensional materials in an insulated glass
Compare architectural techniques and glazing systems for daylight control
Understand the comparative benefits of high-performance architectural glazing system in
such areas as energy efficiency, thermal gain, and indoor environmental quality

1.0 LU | HSW Credit
AIA Course #300100C; AIA CES Provider # 40107852

Education Outreach Committee Meeting
2025-03-06 12:00 - 13:00

AIA | TEXO Tech Club Forum Launch
2025-03-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Emerging Leaders Program Session
2025-03-07 12:00 - 17:00

Main Street Architecture Walking Tour
2025-03-08 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-03-22 10:00 - 11:30

Build Your City!
2025-03-08 12:00 - 14:00

KRob Committee Meeting
2025-03-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Tour of Homes Committee Meeting
2025-03-12 12:00 - 13:00

Modern Masonry Rainscreen Systems
2025-03-12 17:30 - 19:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
The Building Enclosure Council provides a forum for the AEC industry to address building enclosures—the exterior systems of buildings that play such a critical role in building performance and energy efficiency.

Modern Masonry Rainscreen Systems
Course Description: Unlock the full potential of modern masonry wall assemblies with this expert-led course! Explore cutting-edge rainscreen technologies and discover how terracotta, brick, and lightweight stone can enhance both design and performance. Learn the key differences between modern rainscreen assemblies and traditional masonry systems while maximizing benefits like weight reduction, improved thermal efficiency, and expanded design flexibility. Featuring real-world project profiles, this course equips architects with the latest innovations in masonry rainscreens—helping you deliver superior solutions for clients and owners.
Learning Objectives:

This course will instruct the architect on the latest technologies and detailing of masonry rainscreen assemblies
Participants will understand the critical differences between modern rainscreen assemblies and conventional masonry systems
Participants will learn how to maximize the benefits of rainscreen assemblies to owner/client including weight reductions, thermal performance, and water management facilities
Participants will understand the design options with rainscreen brick, terracotta, porcelain and stone veneers with corners, openings, returns, and other aspects of the exterior, incorporating masonry rainscreen assemblies into unitized systems like curtain wall and megapanel.

CE Credit: 1.0 LU | HSW

Presenter:
Dave Sommer CSI, BEC with ModFacade
Dave Sommer has 30 years in the construction industry. Having founded Interra Enterprises, Inc in 2004, Dave’s success in promoting innovative architectural products and systems through commercial specifications has earned him the respect of architects, spec writers and building envelope consultants. Dave has been a member of CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) and served as Vice President of the Seattle Chapter. Dave is also a long-standing member of SeaBEC (Seattle Building Enclosure Council).

Agenda:

5:30pm – Happy Hour and Networking
6:00-7:00pm – Presentation

Community Honors Committee Meeting
2025-03-13 09:00 - 10:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Committee on the Environment (COTE) Meeting: Passive House Core Concepts
2025-03-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
Join the Committee on the Environment (COTE) at the AD EX for this micro-learning session! Parking validation is available through Republic Center Valet. If you are unable to join in person, please contact Conleigh Bauer for the zoom link.

Passive House Core Concepts
Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC), Joseph Boring, AIA, will lead a short session exploring the core concepts of Passive House design.
Learning Objectives:

Participants will gain a high-level understanding of Passive House’s rigorous standards, including insulation, airtightness, ventilation, and high-performance windows.
Participants will learn the crucial role of specialized software tools, providing a brief overview of tools like WUFI and THERM, used for building performance analysis.
Participants will gain a greater appreciation for the integrated design approach needed to achieve these high-performance buildings.
Participants will learn about additional resources where they can learn more about Passive House design and Passive House certifications.

0.5 LU | HSW

Golf Committee Meeting
2025-03-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

ADF Travel & Research Fellowship Presentations
2025-03-13 17:30 - 19:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
2024 McDermott Travel Fellow Dianna Hodza & The Bill Millsap Travel Fellow Ben Henschen present discoveries from their travels.
About this event
Join the AD EX to hear from 2024 McDermott Travel Fellow Dianna Hodza & The Bill Millsap Travel Fellow Ben Henschen present discoveries from their travels.
This event showcases two fellowship-supported research projects that explore how design shapes our perception of place—whether through the visual storytelling of landscapes or the preservation of architectural heritage.
Ben Henschen, Bill Millsap Fellow, examines how representational techniques influence our understanding of landscapes. Studying Lawrence Halprin’s Yosemite Falls Corridor and Luca Werner’s Lupine, he explores how sketches and film communicate the essence of place in landscape architecture.
Dianna Hodza, McDermott Traveling Fellow, investigates Croatia’s architectural heritage and its approach to preservation and modernization. From ancient ruins to war-scarred cities like Dubrovnik, she explores how architecture reflects resilience and identity.
Architecture and Design Foundation Scholarship Committee Chair Jonathan Brower, AIA and Brien Graham will lead a moderated Q&A following their presentations.
This program is free to attend. Self-parking at the AD EX is included with registration. Details will be emailed in advance of program.
About the Architecture and Design Foundation Travel Fellowships:
The Architecture and Design Foundation awards a variety of academic scholarships, travel and research fellowships, and professional development grants to make careers in architecture more accessible and inspire future generations of design professionals.

Build Your City! at Reunion Tower's GeO-Deck
2025-03-14 14:00 - 16:00
The AD EX is bringing their Build Your City Program up 470-feet! There’s no better place to learn about Dallas’ architecture and design than the top.
Spring Break activities at Reunion Tower’s GeO-Deck are included with the purchase of a GeO-Deck general admission ticket.

Firm Friday, hosted by Kirksey
2025-03-14 15:00 - 17:00 | Kirksey Architecture, 147 Manufacturing Street
Firm Friday’s is a unique opportunity to go behind the scenes. Join us for an informal gathering and social happy hour on Friday, March 14. Kirksey is opening their doors, giving you an inside look at their work and office culture.

Historic Resources Committee Meeting
2025-03-18 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Small Firms Roundtable Happy Hour
2025-03-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Peticolas Brewing Company, 1301 Pace St, Dallas, TX, 75207, United States
Join the Small Firms Roundtable Network for a lively happy hour at Peticolas Brewing Company. Designed to bring together architects from small firms to connect, collaborate, and unwind. Whether you’re a sole practitioner, part of a boutique studio, or simply looking to expand your network, this informal gathering offers the perfect setting to build community and spark new ideas among fellow small firm professionals.
Enjoy a pint and great conversation as we foster connections that strengthen the small firm community in Dallas. Let’s raise a glass to small firms and big ideas!
RSVP requested, not required.

Urban Design Committee Meeting
2025-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Fair Park Tram Tour
2025-03-19 12:00 - 14:00 | Fair Park, 3600 Parry Avenue, Dallas, TX, 75210
Fair Park, a celebration of art, architecture, and industry, is a cultural and historic gem in the heart of Dallas. Join us for a motorized tour of the park while we fill you in on its amazing past and talk about its exciting future.
Architecturally, Fair Park is one of the world’s largest collections of Art Deco buildings with a unique design approach that Chief Architect George Dahl described as “Texanic.” Integral to the buildings and the grounds are numerous works by renowned artists that celebrate the history and achievements of Texas during the first 100 years of independence. First established for the Dallas State Fair in 1886, Fair Park was transformed in 1936 for the Texas Centennial Exposition. It is one of Dallas’ greatest cultural assets, hosting events year-round and exhibitions and serving as home to numerous cultural institutions. In 1986, it was recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
In partnership with Fair Park First, the Dallas Architecture and Design Exchange presents hour-long lunchtime tram tours on the third Wednesday of the month at several times throughout the year. Tickets are $10 for general admission, and $5 for students and seniors.
The tour begins at noon at the Parry Street entrance gate adjacent to the DART stop. Seats are limited – reserve your seat in advance.
NOTE: The duration of the tour ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours. There is some walking (1/4 of a mile or less) to allow participants to get up close to some of the artwork. Please note any mobility challenges at the time of registration so that the tour route can be adjusted to accommodate all guests.

AIA | TEXO Tech Club
2025-03-19 16:00 - 17:00

Architecture Matters: AI Talk Moderated by Phil Bernstein
2025-03-20 18:00 - 20:00
The Architecture Matters Series is presented by McLaughlin Insurance. This event is free for all!
Program Description:
Artificial intelligence is the next disruptive technology buffeting the practice of architecture, following close on the heels of BIM. But unlike BIM, AI seems to be everywhere, pressing upon the public, clients, collaborators, builders, and regulators as well as architects. Rather than react to every breathless article and social media post about our future robot overlords, how should architects think about these questions and formulate an intelligent response? This discussion is designed to introduce basic concepts of AI, contextualize its evolution in architecture, and analyze its implications in an effort to equip architects to think strategically about the technologically enabled future.
Learning Objectives:

Explore and evaluate the evolutionary trajectory of technology in the AECO industry through the lenses of use of tools and specific practice experience.
Identify key technological, social, economic, and business trends potentially affected by the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence.
Assess and analyze the impact of technological disruption on design firms through the examination of business strategy and models
Speculate on professional and practice futures, particularly value propositions of design practice, of autonomous computation. Identify opportunities and threats.

1.0 LU

ALDP Session: Technology & Generative AI: Its Impact on the Future of Architecture
2025-03-21 08:30 - 12:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
Technology is the backbone of everything we do. Everything. From the simple and mundane (e.g., word-pressing, cost accountancy, proposal preparation, reporting) to the cutting edge of design (e.g., machine learning and AI), everything we do depends upon our fluency and comfort in trafficking in multiple platforms. There is market disruption, major consolidation, rapid adoption of ever newer technologies, and continuous change management. The pace of change is breathtaking in an otherwise slow moving, inefficient AEC industry. In this segment, we discuss everything from macro-scale and micro-scale that the fully informed businessperson needs to know about technology’s overwhelming impact, today.

The Advanced Leadership Development Program is a new 10-month opportunity for senior leaders to develop the skills to navigate their elevated leadership roles in an increasingly complex environment. Focused specifically on leading a design firm, the “mini-MBA” program is an action-based learning experience focused on the skills needed in strategy development, financial management, marketing and communications, and leadership and communication styles, as well as building high-performing teams inside and outside the firm and leading through change. The program meets once a month on Friday with each session led jointly by a business expert and educator with input from a seasoned firm leader able to speak to the practice of architecture. The goal is for participants to be able to immediately implement the knowledge gained at their firm in a Capstone project shared on the final day.

Public Policy Committee Meeting
2025-03-25 08:30 - 10:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
