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AIA Grand Rapids

AIA Grand Rapids advocates for the architecture profession by promoting sustainable design, education, and community engagement. They empower architects through resources, events, and collaboration to enhance the built environment and improve community health.

Join us as we&nbsp;CELEBRATE our Chapter&#39;s 2026 Honor Awards! This event will sell out quickly. Be sure to purchase your tickets EARLY! Join us in CELEBRATING AIA Grand Rapids Architects and their contributions to our communities. With this as our cornerstone, we are creating the foundation for building recognition of the profession and our clients through a stronger promotion of Architecture to the public. It will be an event not to miss for all who are a part of the West Michigan architecture and the construction community. This year&#39;s event will be held on Thursday, October 8th at the <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.glcliveat20monroe.com/visit" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">GLC Live at 20 Monroe</a>, 11 Ottawa Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Through its annual Honor Awards program, the AIA Grand Rapids Chapter recognizes excellence in architecture throughout the region. The program promotes the value of good design and encourages members to pursue excellence through their work and service to the public. The mission of AIA Grand Rapids is to unite and amplify the voices of the architectural profession to empower and inspire our members and communities. In support of this mission, the program celebrates our chapter architects and their work, promotes the profession, honors clients, and acknowledges contributions to the construction industry. Schedule: Cocktail Reception + Networking | 5:30 PM Seated Dinner + Awards Ceremony | 6:30 PM Dessert + Afterglow Reception + Networking | 8 PM GETTING HERE <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.glcliveat20monroe.com/visit" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">GLC Live at 20 Monroe</a> is located at 11 Ottawa Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. The venue does not have dedicated parking, but there are city garages, public lots, and meters nearby. For more information on parking visit the&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/Mobile-GR/Downtown-Mobility-and-Parking-Guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Downtown Visitor Mobility and Parking Guide</a>. <a fr-original-style="" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/dcgsmtYQ6gkxkWJh7" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">VIEW MAP &raquo;&raquo;</a> Interested in Sponsoring this event? Please contact info@aiagr.org to learn more. * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

2026 AIA Grand Rapids Honor Awards Celebration

AIA GRAND RAPIDS 2026 HONOR AWARDS CALL FOR ENTRIES AIA Grand Rapids is Proud to Present the 2026 AIA Grand Rapids Honor Awards Program.&nbsp;This year&#39;s Honor Awards Celebration will be held on&nbsp;Thursday, October 8, 2026. SHOW THE JURY YOUR COMMITMENT TO DESIGN EXCELLENCE Every year, jurors reward submissions that best tell the story of a project, its design concepts, and its lasting impact. In addition to the jury&rsquo;s own standards and criteria, AIA Grand Rapids will again be asking this year&#39;s jury to look for specific answers to questions in response to the <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.aia.org/design-excellence/aia-framework-design-excellence" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">AIA&rsquo;s Framework for Design Excellence</a>&nbsp;as they judge the projects, and give great weight to those answers. Please ensure you read through the&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://mcusercontent.com/0562759ce20f973c06ec553d4/files/724acef2-01d3-ac53-4ba9-cc6fd0d40025/AIAGR_2026_Call_for_Entries_Architectural_Awards.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Architectural Call for Entries</a> thoroughly to understand any changes for 2026. DATES + DEADLINES: May 18, 2026 &ndash; Call for Entries | Registration Opens June 5, 2026, 5:00pm EDT &ndash; Registration Deadline June 19, 2026, 5:00pm EDT &ndash; Submission Deadline June | July 2026 &ndash; Jury Review July 31, 2026 &ndash; Jury Results Due August 2026 &ndash; Notification to Award Winners September TBD, 2026 &ndash; Award Winner Interview Video Shoot Day October 8, 2026 &ndash; AIAGR Honor Awards Celebration at GLC Live at 20 Monroe No late submissions will be accepted. No registration fees will be refunded for disqualified or incomplete submissions. We hope your firm will consider entering a project in this year&#39;s AIA Grand Rapids Honor Awards Program. Sincerely, Doug Campbell, AIA &ndash; AIA Grand Rapids President Steven Romkema, AIA &ndash; AIA Grand Rapids Honor Awards Committee Chair Submissions should be sent to&nbsp;AIA Grand Rapids. Entry Fees are listed under each category in the Call for Entries. You may pay by Check or Credit Card on Zeffy. Please <a fr-original-style="" href="https://mcusercontent.com/0562759ce20f973c06ec553d4/files/724acef2-01d3-ac53-4ba9-cc6fd0d40025/AIAGR_2026_Call_for_Entries_Architectural_Awards.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for the&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://mcusercontent.com/0562759ce20f973c06ec553d4/files/724acef2-01d3-ac53-4ba9-cc6fd0d40025/AIAGR_2026_Call_for_Entries_Architectural_Awards.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">NEW 2026 Architectural Honor Awards</a> Information Packet. Please <a fr-original-style="" href="https://mcusercontent.com/0562759ce20f973c06ec553d4/files/aab9448e-5aa1-54b7-97af-93365d144ed4/AIAGR_2026_Call_for_Entries_Recognition_Awards.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> for the <a fr-original-style="" href="https://mcusercontent.com/0562759ce20f973c06ec553d4/files/aab9448e-5aa1-54b7-97af-93365d144ed4/AIAGR_2026_Call_for_Entries_Recognition_Awards.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">NEW 2026 Recognition Honor Awards</a> descriptions and requirements. * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR 2026 Honor Awards Call for Project Entries + Submittal Payment

Join AIAGR Member Architect <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.corrisandwick.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Corri Sandwick, AIA</a>, and <a fr-original-style="" href="https://minetzero.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Michigan Net Zero Homes LLC</a> for a tour of the recently completed Grand Rapids&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://minetzero.com/properties/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Michigan Net Zero Home</a>! Hosted by: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.corrisandwick.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Corri Sandwick, AIA</a>, and&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://minetzero.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Michigan Net Zero Homes LLC&nbsp;</a> Event Description: Tour the first Phius-Zero certified house in Kent County, which is also undergoing final certification review for LEED Platinum and Greenstar Platinum. This premium, no-compromise home on the northeast side of Grand Rapids has been meticulously designed and built to facilitate net-zero living for its occupants. Solar panels on the roof generate the annual power required for the home and two electric vehicles. Double stud walls and quad pane windows contribute to the home&rsquo;s exceptional health, comfort, tranquility, and energy efficiency. The wood floors are sustainable and comfortable. The home incorporates water-saving features, health-certified materials, and native plant landscaping. The detached garage features V2H electric vehicle charging capabilities. Be captivated by the comprehensively net-zero design, including a south roof and PV array sized to power the house and two EVs. We have also reduced up-front carbon emissions by utilizing low-embodied-carbon assemblies and materials, such as the concrete-free foundation, TimberHP insulation, and a thermal-bridge-free double-stud wall assembly. Indulge in the beauty of net zero Dekton countertops, Milestone tile, and native plant landscaping. Our objective was to create a warm, understated, Lagom aesthetic in a highly walkable neighborhood close to downtown. At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: Learning Objective 1: Evaluate the principles of Phius-Zero and net-zero residential design, including on-site renewable energy generation and building envelope strategies, to support occupant health, safety, and long-term energy resilience. Learning Objective 2: Analyze the impact of high-performance enclosure systems, such as double-stud wall assemblies, quad-pane windows, and continuous air barriers &mdash; on indoor air quality, thermal comfort, moisture control, and occupant well-being. Learning Objective 3: Assess the role of low-embodied-carbon materials and assemblies, including concrete-free foundations and advanced insulation systems, in reducing environmental impact while maintaining structural integrity and durability. Learning Objective 4: Identify design strategies that enhance occupant safety and resilience, including wind-resistant construction methods, water conservation systems, and site planning approaches such as native landscaping and walkable community integration. Home is complete, but unfortunately, it&rsquo;s not barrier-free. There are two flights of steps up to the house from the sidewalk in front, and one flight of steps down through the garage from the back alley. Please plan to remove your shoes or wear shoe covers indoors. Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1.0 LU | HSW (Pending AIA Approval) * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR Michigan Net Zero Home Tour

Join us for our joint AIAGR Lunch &amp; Learn session with <a fr-original-style="" href="https://ashraewestmi.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">ASHRAE Western Michigan</a> on May 12th, hosted at the <a fr-original-style="" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/qyX2BoakQK6oBksg9" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Student Commons</a> at&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.ferris.edu/art-design/programs/graduate/master-of-architecture/index.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University</a>! Hosted by:&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.ferris.edu/art-design/programs/graduate/master-of-architecture/index.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">KCAD of FSU</a> Event Description: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.catalyst-partners.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Catalyst Partners</a> will present during this Lunch &amp; Learn from 11:30am to&nbsp;1:00pm. Topic: Designing for Carbon, Health, and Equity: A LEED v5 Primer Course Description:&nbsp;This high-level overview of U.S. Green Building Council&rsquo;s LEED v5 rating system explores how the next evolution of LEED is reshaping the roles of both architects and engineers in delivering high-performance buildings. LEED v5 moves beyond traditional energy efficiency to emphasize carbon accountability, resilience, and human-centered design&mdash;requiring deeper collaboration between architectural and mechanical disciplines from early concept through operation. This session highlights how building form, envelope, systems, and controls must work together to meet new expectations for operational and embodied carbon, electrification, peak load management, and indoor environmental quality. Attendees will gain practical insight into how LEED v5 influences design decisions across disciplines&mdash;from massing and material selection to HVAC system design and grid interaction&mdash;and how to translate these requirements into integrated project strategies. The presentation is designed to help architects and engineers speak a common language around performance, align design priorities, and confidently guide clients toward low-carbon, resilient outcomes.&nbsp; At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to: 1. Learning Objective 1: Interpret Key LEED v5 Changes Across Disciplines: Understand how LEED v5 restructures certification around carbon, resilience, and equity, and identify the implications for both architectural design (form, envelope, materials) and mechanical systems (HVAC, electrification, controls).2. Learning Objective 2: Connect Design Decisions to Carbon Outcomes: Evaluate how early architectural decisions (orientation, massing, fa&ccedil;ade design, material selection) and engineering strategies (system selection, efficiency, electrification) collectively influence operational and embodied carbon performance under LEED v5. 3. Learning Objective 3:&nbsp;Integrate Resilience, Health, and Performance Strategies: Explore how LEED v5 aligns climate resilience, occupant health, and indoor environmental quality with building systems and design strategies&mdash;including ventilation, thermal comfort, passive survivability, and hazard mitigation.&nbsp; 4. Learning Objective 4: Apply LEED v5 to Integrated Project Delivery: Identify practical pathways for achieving high levels of certification by aligning architectural intent, engineering systems, and performance modeling, enabling more effective collaboration and informed decision-making throughout design and construction. Schedule:  Check-In + Social |&nbsp;11:30 AM  Presentation + Lunch |&nbsp;12:00 PM Presentation Concludes |&nbsp;1:00 PM Cost: AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;FreeAIAS Members | Students:&nbsp;FreeKCAD + Ferris Faculty | Staff:&nbsp;FreeNon-AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;$30.00 Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1.0 LU | HSW * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR | ASHRAE Western Michigan Lunch & Learn: Designing for Carbon, Health, and Equity — A LEED v5 Primer

Please join us for our May AIAGR Lunch &amp; Learn hosted by&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://custerinc.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Custer</a>! <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.steelcase.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Steelcase</a> will present during this two-for-one in-person Lunch &amp; Learn from 12:00pm&nbsp;to&nbsp;1:00pm EST. Topic: Workplace Wellbeing + Understanding Inclusive Design Course Description: Workplace Wellbeing: This course is about the importance of understanding wellbeing in the workplace. It is a growing concern for many organizations and is quickly becoming a bottom line issue that drives business performance. CEO&rsquo;s value employees who are collaborative, communicative, creative and flexible. But only recently are leaders realizing that fostering these skills requires a focus on employees&rsquo; wellbeing. New Steelcase research and insights show how the workplace can help organizations attain employee wellbeing and business results they desire. Learn how to design workplaces that support the physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing holistically. Understanding Inclusive Design:&nbsp;Inclusive Design is the process of using participatory methods to inform design, enabling designers and architects to create new ways for traditionally excluded communities to engage in activities of their choice. The practice of Inclusive Design is critical to the success of any design practice as it enables designers and architects to create spaces and products that are compelling and inclusive for all. In this CEU course, participants will delve into the principles and practices of inclusive design, including understanding the needs of diverse stakeholder groups, incorporating equitable design best practices, and leveraging different lived experiences and perspectives as a source of inspiration, innovation and creativity. Learners will explore real-world case studies to better understand the impact of inclusive design on building and product design. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to apply inclusive design principles to their own work and make design accessible and inclusive for everyone. Schedule: Registration + Check-In&nbsp;| 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM Presentation + Lunch&nbsp;| 12:00 PM Presentation Concludes&nbsp;| 1:00 PM Cost: AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;Free AIAS Members | Students:&nbsp;Free Non-AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;$15.00 Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 2 LU | HSW * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR Lunch & Learn: Workplace Wellbeing + Understanding Inclusive Design

Join <a fr-original-style="" href="https://spark43arch.com/projects/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Spark 43 Architects</a> for a Hard Hat Tour of the&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.kentwood.us/business_detail_T47_R98.php" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Kentwood Community Center</a>! Hosted by:&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://spark43arch.com/projects/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Spark 43 Architects</a> Event Description:The new Community Center in Kentwood is a nearly 72,000-square-foot, multi-generational civic facility designed to advance health, safety, and welfare through inclusive, community-centered design. Scheduled to open in 2026, the approximately $30 million project provides a diverse program including multi-court gymnasiums, an elevated indoor walking track, flexible community gathering spaces, and a dedicated fitness center intentionally designed for individuals of all abilities. The design prioritizes cultural inclusion by creating a welcoming environment reflective of Kentwood&rsquo;s diverse population, fostering a strong sense of belonging across age, ability, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Universal Design principles are embedded throughout the facility, including barrier-free circulation, adaptable program spaces, and specialized equipment that supports users with physical and cognitive disabilities, reinforcing equitable access to recreation and wellness. Zero-Step Design strategies further enhance accessibility and safety by eliminating vertical barriers at primary entrances and throughout key program areas, promoting independence, reducing fall risk, and supporting lifelong usability. Collectively, these strategies contribute to a resilient, flexible civic asset that promotes physical activity, social connectivity, and community health while serving as a regional destination for events, recreation, and economic activity. At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to: 1. Learning Objective 1: Evaluate how active design strategies in community recreation facilities promote public health through accessible fitness spaces, multi-use athletic areas, and indoor walking environments.2. Learning Objective 2: Identify how Zero-Step Design and barrier-free circulation improve occupant safety by reducing trip hazards, enhancing accessibility, and supporting safe, independent movement. 3. Learning Objective 3:&nbsp;Analyze how culturally inclusive design strategies support social equity, community engagement, and user wellbeing within multi-generational civic environments.&nbsp; 4. Learning Objective 4:&nbsp;Apply Universal Design principles to create equitable, adaptable community spaces that accommodate a wide range of physical and cognitive abilities. Attendees must meet in the Job trailer before the tour and sign in (regardless of whether they are seeking CE credits or not. The site is an active construction project and Triangle Associates requires that all visitors utilize the following PPE:&bull; Hard Hat&bull; Safety Glasses&bull; High Visibility Vest&bull; Closed Toe Shoes (steel toe not required). There is some PPE available in the jobsite trailer that can be borrowed but quantities are limited &ndash; attendees are encouraged to bring and utilize there personal PPE. Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1.0 LU | HSW * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR Kentwood Community Center Hard Hat Tour

Join the next generation of Architecture leaders &mdash; while having some fun doing it! ⛳ Join the newly minted Young Architects Forum (YAF) Grand Rapids for our kickoff event at <a fr-original-style="" href="https://bigminiputtclub.com/golfgrandrapids/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Big Mini Putt Club</a>, presented by <a fr-original-style="" href="https://aiagr.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">AIA Grand Rapids</a>. Connect with fellow emerging professionals, recent architecture grads, and Associate AIA Members on the path to licensure &mdash; all in a relaxed, social setting built for real conversations and easy networking. Enjoy a night of mini golf, laughs, and meaningful connections as you meet peers, share ideas, and discover how YAF supports your growth and career path.&nbsp;⛳ Event Details: 🗓️ April 16 ⏰ 5:30 PM 📍&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/qGNHZv5YVPy4VRgLA" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Big Mini Putt Club</a> 70 Ionia Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49503 Grab a putter, bring a friend, and grow your network &mdash; one hole at a time! ⛳ YAF GRAND RAPIDS Young Architects Forum&nbsp; Connecting Emerging Professionals in Architecture * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

YAF Grand Rapids Kickoff Event at Big Mini Putt Club Presented by AIA Grand Rapids

Please join us for our AIAGR Talk + Tour Lunch &amp; Learn with Disability Advocates of Kent County on&nbsp;March 20th! Hosted by:&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.dakc.us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Disability Advocates of Kent County</a> Event Description: <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.dakc.us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Disability Advocates of Kent County</a> will present during this Lunch &amp; Learn from 12:00pm to&nbsp;1:00pm. Topic: Designing for Every Body: Residential Accessibility, Aging in Place &amp; Inclusive Design Strategies Course Description: This course examines the role of architects in advancing health, safety, and welfare through inclusive residential design. As the population ages and more individuals live with temporary or permanent disabilities, accessible housing is no longer a niche specialty but a professional responsibility. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies that enhance safety, usability, and long-term livability in residential environments. The session will review design approaches that reduce fall risk, improve circulation and maneuverability, and support independence through adaptable kitchens, bathrooms, entries, and environmental controls. Using examples from the&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.dakc.us/service-areas/home#home-accessibility" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Disability Advocates of Kent County Home Accessibility Center</a>, attendees will analyze practical design solutions that go beyond minimum code compliance and instead prioritize equitable access, dignity, and function. The course emphasizes the architect&rsquo;s responsibility to integrate universal design principles that directly impact occupant safety, health outcomes, and housing equity. At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to: 1. Learning Objective 1: Explain how &nbsp;accessibility and universal design principles directly impact occupant health, safety, and welfare.2. Learning Objective 2: Assess common residential design features (entries, bathrooms, kitchens, circulation paths) for safety risks and accessibility barriers. 3. Learning Objective 3:&nbsp;Apply evidence-based design strategies that reduce fall risk, increase maneuverability, and improve independent use of residential environments. 4. Learning Objective 4: Distinguish between minimum code requirements (e.g., ADA-informed and Fair Housing considerations) and best-practice inclusive design strategies that improve long-term livability and equity. Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1.0 LU | HSW * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR Talk + Tour Lunch & Learn: Designing for Every Body — Residential Accessibility, Aging in Place & Inclusive Design Strategies

Join AIA Grand Rapids for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes hard hat tour of the <a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.grandriverfront.com/developments/soccer-stadium" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Amway Soccer Stadium</a>&mdash;one of the most transformative projects taking shape in downtown Grand Rapids! Because the tour is limited to 20 guests, we have added two event date options. Please sign up for only one tour. Currently under construction on the city&rsquo;s West Side, this $175 million, 134,500-square-foot multi-purpose stadium will seat 8,500 fans and serve as the future home of&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.acgrandrapids.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">AC Grand Rapids</a>, West Michigan&rsquo;s new MLS NEXT Pro team. Designed for professional and amateur sports, community events, and entertainment, Amway Stadium is set to become a premier destination in the region. Guided by architects from&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.weareprogressive.com/featured-projects/amway-stadium" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Progressive Companies</a>, attendees will explore the active construction site, touring outdoor plaza spaces, as well as interior areas including locker rooms, suites, and VIP hospitality spaces. You&#39;ll gain firsthand insight into this unique public/private partnership, the complex design and engineering challenges faced by the team, and the bespoke solutions crafted for this iconic venue. Special thanks to our project partners at&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.weareprogressive.com/featured-projects/amway-stadium" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Progressive Companies</a>,&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.rockford.com/featured-projects/amway-soccer-stadium" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Rockford</a>,&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://aecom.com/aecom-hunt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">AECOM Hunt</a>, and&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://www.grandaction.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Grand Action 2.0</a>&nbsp;for making this up-close preview possible ahead of the stadium&rsquo;s anticipated 2027 opening! Post-Tour Happy HourAfter the tour, stick around! Attendees are invited to walk over to Bridge Street for some self-funded hospitality, casual networking, and happy hour drinks with fellow design and construction professionals. Important Jobsite &amp; Safety DetailsSafety Notice: Amway Stadium is an active jobsite with over 100 workers on-site daily. For your safety, strict adherence to jobsite attire and safety protocols is required.&nbsp;No exceptions will be made. 📍 Meeting Location &amp; Parking<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Location: Rockford/AECOM Hunt Field OfficeAddress: 337 Mt. Vernon Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Arrival: Please park in designated visitor parking areas (refer to the site map) and report directly to the Field Office.</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Briefing: The entire group will review mandatory safety requirements and gear up with PPE at the Field Office before entering the jobsite.</li></ul>👟 What to Wear (Mandatory Jobsite Attire)To participate in the tour, you must arrive wearing compliant attire:<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Footwear: Construction-grade work boots required.*❌ NOT permitted: Sneakers, running shoes, tennis shoes, sandals, open-toed shoes, or heels.</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Clothing: Full-length pants and a shirt with sleeves (at least standard T-shirt length).*❌ NOT permitted: Shorts, skirts, sweatpants, tank tops, sleeveless shirts, or athletic wear.</li></ul>🦺 PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Type 2 Hard Hats</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">High-Visibility Safety Vests</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Safety Glasses</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Cut Level 4 Safety Gloves</li></ul>📸 Photography PolicyPhotos are permitted during the tour for personal viewing. However, do not post or share any photos on social media or external channels without prior review and written approval from Rockford/AECOM Hunt and project ownership. Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1.0 LU | HSW (Pending) * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIAGR Amway Soccer Stadium Hard Hat Tour

AIA Grand Rapids 2026 Annual Chapter Business Meeting &amp; Opening of 2027 Election Thursday, November 5, 2026 | 12:00pm - 1:30pm Thank you for your continued support and involvement in the AIA Grand Rapids Chapter. Please join the AIA Grand Rapids Board of Directors for our Annual 2026 Business Meeting. We will be closing our Open Nominations period for our Annual Election and outlining what we have accomplished in 2026 as well as where we are headed in 2027. Our board nominations period will close during our Annual Business Meeting, which will be held virtually on November 5, 2026, at 12 noon. All AIA Grand Rapids members are invited to attend this meeting. The elections will be conducted via online voting through SurveyMonkey, starting in early November 2026. Therefore, we will now be accepting nominations for the following positions:<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Vice President / President-Elect (Year 1) | President (Year 2) | Past President (Year 3) * Vice President/President-Elect Candidate Must be an AIA Grand Rapids Architect Member.&nbsp;</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Secretary - Two-Year Term * Secretary Candidate Must be an AIA Grand Rapids Architect Member.</li><li fr-original-style="font-weight: bold;" style="font-weight: bold; box-sizing: inherit;">Chapter Director (Three Open Positions) - Two-Year Term</li></ul>Please contact info@aiagr.org with any questions or to Declare your Candidacy.

AIAGR 2026 Annual Chapter Business Meeting (Virtual)

Please join us for our November&nbsp;AIAGR Lunch &amp; Learn hosted by&nbsp;<a fr-original-style="" href="https://cserickson.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">CS Erickson</a>! <a fr-original-style="" href="https://sonance.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: currentcolor; user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Sonance</a> will present during this two-for-one in-person Lunch &amp; Learn from 12:00pm&nbsp;to&nbsp;1:00pm EST. Topic: Commercial Audio Considerations for Design Course Description: Commercial Audio is an integral part of a project design and less obvious, part of the interior design. In this course, we introduce the defining aspects of commercial audio and the requirements for audio in a commercial space. We cover the unique and creative ways to design audio to disappear in commercial spaces to make the design the priority when audio is a necessary function. At the end of this program, participants will be able to: 1. Understand the Key Objectives of Commercial Audio. 2. Learn how the considerations of a commercial audio project effect the final outcome; Budget, Performance, Environmental, Certification, Construction and Aesthetics. 3. See real-world examples of how Audio Products can be designed to disappear into a project to minimize visual impact, without compromising the performance.&nbsp; 4. Identify the steps required to successfully apply the principles shown in this presentation into a project. Schedule: Registration + Check-In&nbsp;| 11:45 AM - 12:00 PM Presentation + Lunch&nbsp;| 12:00 PM Presentation Concludes&nbsp;| 1:00 PM Cost: AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;Free AIAS Members | Students:&nbsp;Free Non-AIAGR Chapter Members:&nbsp;$15.00 Program Credits: AIA &ndash; 1 LU * We use Zeffy because it&rsquo;s the only 100% free platform, ensuring that we retain every dollar. At the end of your purchase, you&rsquo;ll see a suggested voluntary tip to support their services. However, you can opt to set this to $0 by selecting &lsquo;Other&rsquo; in the contribution dropdown, thereby keeping your purchase fee-free. *

AIA Grand Rapids

AIA Grand Rapids

Events

Events

AIAGR Amway Soccer Stadium Hard Hat Tour

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AIAGR 2026 Annual Chapter Business Meeting (Virtual)

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AIAGR Lunch & Learn: Commercial Audio Considerations for Design

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