AIA Dallas

Columns Committee: Departments Meeting
2025-04-02 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | 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.

LGBTQIA+ Alliance Movie Night at HKS
2025-04-01 18:00 - 20:00
LGBTQIA+ Alliance Invites You to Movie Night!
Tuesday, April 1, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
HKS Office Learning Center, 350 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 100
FREE, In Person Event
Join us this Thursday, March 20 at 6:00 PM for a special screening of The Birdcage on the big screen in the HKS Learning Center! Snacks, drinks, and parking validations will be provided for all attendees.

Design Awards Committee Meeting
2025-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

Designing My Future: AD EX Spring Camp for Ages 6 to 9
2025-03-29 08:30 - 11:30 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
Join the Architecture and Design Exchange and AIA Dallas Education Outreach Committee for this half-day camp developed by practicing architects, in partnership with K-12 and nonprofit educators. Students not only learn about career paths in architecture, design, and engineering, but also explore how to use design to become better stewards of their neighborhoods and champions for a more functional, beautiful, and equitable city. Join us for hands-on activities, inspirational guest speakers, prize giveaways, and much more!
Cost:
$50 per student – Materials, breakfast, and snacks included
Have a financial need? Scholarships available upon request. Please email info@dallasadex.org for more information.

Home Heat Money God: Texas and Modern Architecture Panel Discussion
2025-03-27 19:00 - 20:30 | Angelika Film Center, 5321 E Mockingbird Ln, Ste 230, Dallas, TX, 75206
Presented by the Dallas Architecture Forum
Ben Koush in conversation with Amy Walton
Thursday, March 27, 2025, 7:00 PM
Angelika Film Center, Mockingbird Station
Free and Open to the Public
AIA CES Credit Available
In the mid-twentieth century, dramatic social and political change coincided with the ascendance and evolution of architectural modernism in Texas. Between the 1930s and 1980s, a state known for cowboys and cotton fields rapidly urbanized and became a hub of global trade and a heavyweight in national politics. Relentless ambition and a strong sense of place combined to make Texans particularly receptive to modern architecture’s implication of newness, forward-looking attitude, and capacity to reinterpret historical forms in novel ways. As money and people poured in, architects and their clients used modern buildings to define themselves and the state.
Illustrated with stunning photographs by architect Ben Koush, Home, Heat, Money, God analyzes buildings in big cities and small towns by world-famous architects, Texas titans, and lesser-known designers. Architectural historian Kathryn O’Rourke describes the forces that influenced architects as they addressed basic needs—such as staying cool in a warming climate and living in up-to-date housing—and responded to a culture where houses of faith were valued, by the countervailing pressures of pluralism and homogenization, and by the sense of Texan exceptionalism. And one of the major goals of the book was to tell as many stories as possible incorporating different building types in small towns and big cities, examining the diversity, breadth, and the multiplicity of Texas architecture. Amy Walton, founder of modTEXAS, will join Ben Koush in a lively conversation about the book and its captivating topics.

Sketch to Success
2025-03-27 17:30 - 19:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
Join us for session 2 of our napkin sketching workshop series! The workshops build on each other, but you do not need to have attended the previous session(s) to participate.
About the 4-Part Instructional Sketching and Watercolor Series
Discover the art of architectural illustration with Michael Lungren at the AD EX! This hands-on series is tailored for individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds. You’ll learn freehand drawing and watercolor techniques in a supportive and encouraging environment. The series starts with two sessions focusing on pen and ink napkin sketches, followed by two workshops exploring watercolor on pen and ink.
Supplies are provided and no prior training is necessary.
About the Instructor:
Michael Lungren is vice president at Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects. He has the gift to visualize his clients’ architectural intent and transform it into a mood-provoking artistic representation.
Upcoming sessions:

Tuesday: April 29 (Watercolor), 5:30 – 7:00 PM at the AD EX
Tuesday: May 27 (Watercolor), 5:30 – 7:00 PM at the AD EX

Join us for one session or all four! While the workshops build upon each other, previous attendance is not required. Unleash your creativity and refine your sketching skills with us!
Pricing:
$20 per session // $35 for 2 sessions
Admission includes workshop materials and self-parking at the AD EX.

Codes & Standards Committee Meeting
2025-03-27 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States
The AIA Dallas Codes & Standards Committee meets monthly at the AD EX. Parking validation, drinks, and snacks will be provided. Feel free to bring your lunch. If you cannot join us in person, please email Conleigh Bauer for the zoom link.

Fellows Network Meeting
2025-03-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

AIA | TEXO Steering Committee Meeting
2025-03-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Architecture and Design Exchange, 325 N. St. Paul Street, Suite 150, Dallas, TX, 75201, United States

The Gala for Architecture
2025-03-25 18:00 - 23:00 | The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201, Dallas, TX, 75201
Tuesday, March 25, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House
2403 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201

6:00 PM – VIP Happy Hour
7:00 PM – Happy Hour
8:00 PM – Dinner / Program
9:00 PM – Live Music

The Architecture and Design Foundation, in collaboration with the Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, proudly presents The Gala for Architecture, an elevated transformed black-tie experience set to inspire guests on Thursday evening, January 9th, 2025. Hosted at the iconic Winspear Opera House, a symbol of architectural excellence and artistic expression, this event promises an unforgettable evening filled with spectacle, entertainment, and elegance.
Under the vision of Chairs Nunzio DeSantis, FAIA, and Marc DeSantis, AIA, The Gala for Architecture promises a night of captivating experiences. Indulge in culinary delights and bespoke beverages at each tier of the grand staircase. Savor a gourmet meal on the opera house performance stage with its breathtaking chandelier as your backdrop. Dance the night away to the exciting sounds of Emerald City! Create unforgettable moments beyond the evening’s festivities by bidding on luxurious vacation packages.
Step into a world of inspiration and innovation as we celebrate the profound role that design plays in connecting communities, enhancing human engagement, and improving lives. The Gala for Architecture brings together the architects, community leaders, philanthropists, and stakeholders shaping a better future for our city.
We will celebrate and honor 2024 AIA Dallas Lifetime Achievement recipient Jeff Potter, FAIA, the AIA Dallas George Foster Harrell Award recipient, and the AD EX Community Cornerstone Award recipient. Join us in honoring these passionate individuals whose dedication and impact have left an indelible mark on the landscape of our community and profession.
The Gala for Architecture will directly benefit The Architecture and Design Foundation and its mission to foster access to architecture and design for all. Every dollar contributed will enable educational programs, scholarships, and resources that empower Dallasites of all ages to explore and engage with the world of design. Together, we can create a legacy that will shape our city for generations to come.
For further information visit our AD EX website. THE GALA FOR ARCHITECTURE \

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

Firm Friday, hosted by Kirksey
2025-03-14 15:00 - 17:00 | Kirksey Architecture, 143 Manufacturing Street, Dallas, TX, 75207
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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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