AIA Houston

Columbia Tap Trail Bicycle Tour
2026-04-18 10:30 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Eado Bike Company, 912 St Charles St, Houston, Texas, 77003
Houston’s Third Ward is a culturally rich, historically African-American neighborhood, that includes Texas Southern University (HBCU), The University of Houston (Tier 1), Emancipation Park, and numerous other cultural gems. One of those is the Columbia Tap Trail, completed in 2009, which sits atop the abandoned Columbia Tap railroad route – originally built by enslaved people to transport cotton and sugar from Plantation to Port. The trail connects adjacent neighborhoods and serves as a vital link in the growing Houston trail system.
Join us to bike along the Columbia Tap Trail, to learn more about the trail history and identity, safety prioritizations, culture of the neighborhoods adjacent to the trail, and local artists.
Bike Rental, Meeting Location and Times
Individuals can rent bikes through the Eado Bike Company at 912 Saint Charles St., Houston TX 77003. Please arrive at 10am to pick up your bike. The tour will start at 10:30am.
For those bringing their personal bikes, please join us at Eado. We will be ready to roll at exactly 10:30 am – so don’t be late!
AIA Credit: 1.5 HSW

The Road to Licensure in Texas… (and avoiding bumps in the road)
2026-04-22 18:00 - 19:30 | Texas
Guest presentation by TBAE and NCARB focusing on licensure.
April 22 at 6:00PM at Architecture Center Houston – 902 Commerce
Overview of the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners, Steps toward Architect licensure, Regulations, and Enforcement.
This session covers:

Why TBAE exists
The AXP – NCARB’s Intern Experience Program
The ARE – the mandatory Architectural Registration Examination facilitated by NCARB
Regulation of the Title and Practice of Architecture in Texas – Staying out of trouble
Get answers to your questions from an NCARB staff expert
Learn more information about NCARB’s resources designed to support you.

_____
About the presenters:

Mike Alvarado, NCARB State Licensing Advisor
Registration Manager – Licensing, Renewals, Continuing Education, Outreach
Mike has been the Registration Manager for the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) for 10 years and has been with the Board for a total of 14 years. He has comprehensive knowledge of the requirements to obtain and maintain an active registration (renewals, status changes, CE requirements, exam requirements). Mike worked for 25 years with the City of Austin Water Department, Engineering Division. He is been an active NCARB Licensing Advisor for over 10 years.

Nancy Rodriguez, TBAE Enforcement
Investigator
Nancy joined the Texas Board of Architectural Examiners in August of 2009 as a License & Permit Specialist with the Registration Department then transitioned to Enforcement in 2011 as an Investigator and has held that position since. Nancy is also known as the Business Registration Coordinator as she oversees all business registration matters for the Board including investigating and assisting businesses with their registration and renewal procedures.

Sharon Briceño, TBAE Registration
Continuing Education Coordinator
Sharon has been with Texas Board of Architectural Examiners (TBAE) and the State of Texas for 8 years. She is a retired public school teacher with 33 years of service. Sharon joined TBAE as a Reciprocal License Specialist and currently serves as the Continuing Education Coordinator, where she manages audits, responds to inquiry about the Board’s CE rules and assists with renewal-related questions.

AIA/ AGC Joint Committee April 2026 Lunch and Learn
2026-04-23 11:00 - 15:00 | AGC Houston, 3825 Dacoma Street, Houston, TX, 77092, United States
Documentation Best Practices and Pre-Construction Collaboration
Clear documentation and early collaboration are the foundation of successful projects. Join us for an engaging Lunch & Learn on Documentation Best Practices and Pre-Construction Collaboration, where architects and contractors come together to align expectations, reduce risk, and improve project outcomes.
This interactive roundtable session will explore practical strategies for creating clear construction documents, strengthening communication during pre-construction, and minimizing costly misunderstandings once work begins. By bringing both architects and contractors to the table, we’ll encourage open dialogue, shared perspectives, and real-world solutions that benefit the entire project team.
Enjoy lunch while connecting with peers, exchanging insights, and building relationships that lead to smoother projects from design through construction.
Who should attend: Architects, contractors, project managers, and pre-construction professionals interested in improving coordination and documentation across the project lifecycle.
Seats are limited—register today and come ready to ask questions, share insights, and sharpen your skills.

Event schedule:
11:00 – 11:30 Registration, networking & lunch
11:30 – 1:00 Program
Register here
https://members.agchouston.org/calendar/Details/aia-agc-joint-committee-april-2026-lunch-and-learn-1678020?sourceTypeId=WebsiteAIA/ AGC Joint Committee April 2026 Lunch and Learn | AGC Houston

Gulf Coast Green
2026-04-24 07:30 - 19:00 | The Ismaili Center | Houston, 2323 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX, 77019, United States
CYCLE: Where Ends Become Beginnings
CYCLE is an invitation to explore the dynamic processes that shape our built and natural environments along the Gulf Coast through patterns of renewal, transformation, and continuity. From the material life cycles of construction to the seasonal rhythms of ecological systems, this conference seeks to foreground design approaches that embrace stewardship, circularity, resilience, and adaptation. CYCLE challenges practitioners to reconsider linear modes of development and instead implement practical strategies of stewardship, reuse, regeneration, and resilience—approaches that call for ownership, responsibility, and long-term commitment in responding to climate change, cultural memory, and the evolving needs of communities.
How can design and planning transform waste into resources, extend the life of materials, and support ecosystems and communities that thrive in balance? How might circular thinking also honor cultural memory while addressing climate change and the evolving needs of our region?
Click here for more information including featured speakers and schedule
AIA & ASLA Credit: Earn up to 6.5 HSW CEUs

Location: The Ismaili Center | Houston, 2323 Allen Pkwy, Houston, TX
Parking: Complimentary visitor parking is available onsite. Please enter through the gates on 2290 West Dallas Street and follow the signs to the underground parking garage. After parking, take the elevators up to Level 1 to the main floor.

*Photos courtesy of The Ismaili Center | Houston. Photographer: Iwan Baan*
Date: April 24, 2026

7:30am-5:30pm Conference
5:30pm-7:00pm Final Toast: Zero Proof Hour

Advanced Registration Pricing:
Ticket Includes Conference + Final Toast: Zero Proof Hour
Interns/Students – $40.00 | AIA Member|AIAH Affiliate Member – $245.00 | Non Member – $305.00

Discounted Online registration closes Sunday, April 19
On-site registration will be available, higher registration rates apply (see pricing below)
Interns/Students – $45.00 | AIA Member|AIAH Affiliate Member – $275.00 | Non Member – $340.00
Cancel registration by April 16th to receive a full refund
Registration is transferable

LEGACY SPONSOR

Want to Sponsor?
Click here for more information

On-site registration will be available, higher registration rates apply
Interns/Students – $45.00 | AIA Member|AIAH Affiliate Member – $275.00 | Non Member – $340.00

Montrose Walking Tour
2026-04-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Menil Collection Bookstore, 1520 Sul Ross, Houston, TX, 77006, United States
Montrose is one of the most diverse and interesting neighborhoods in Houston with some of the city’s best architecture including spectacular mansions, charming bungalows, the campus of the University of St. Thomas, Rothko Chapel, and the Menil Collection. ArCH tour guides will present an overview of the architectural and social history of the area and offer guests a look inside of the Fondren Mansion (now La Colombe d’Or), Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Chapel of St. Basil, Rothko Chapel, Cy Twombly Gallery, and the Menil Collection. On this 2-hour walking tour you will get a flavor of this special district and be encouraged to widen your path after the tour is over.
Meet outside the Menil Collection Bookstore, 1520 Sul Ross, 77006. Street and lot parking available.
AIA Credit: 2.0 LU
AIA MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE:
Per AIA National CE Standards, any learning program approved for AIA Learning Units may award CE credit for the approved program for up to (3) years from the date of approval so long as the CES Provider is in good standing. AIA Members may repeat the same course, but no additional credit will be granted or recorded.

Registration is closed for this tour.

Heights Bicycle Tour
2026-05-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Milroy Park, 1205 Yale St, Houston, 77008, United States
This tour explores the original footprint of the Heights, Texas’ and Houston’s first mixed-use community and home to 121 of the 279 National Register of Historic Places listed in Houston. We will look at a wide variety of building types that are historic and original to the area as well as more recent contemporary architecture and discuss how these fit into the context of the neighborhood.
Attendees need to bring their own bicycle. We encourage everyone to wear a helmet.
Tour will meet at Milroy Park, 1205 Yale St, 77008. If you drive, we ask that you park in the street.
AIA Credit: 2 LUs

2026 Tee Up for Success
2026-05-07 17:30 - 20:30 | East River 9, 65 Hirsch Rd, Houston, TX, 77020, United States
Join us for a co-ed summer evening of all-levels golf clinic and networking benefitting the Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a complete novice, this event promises to advance your swing, your network and support women in AEC.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your game, your network, and women in architecture. Whether you’re making a hole-in-one or meaningful connections, your participation will make a difference.

Registration Options:
Standard admission $95:

30 minutes golf clinic session working with pro golfers
unlimited balls on the driving range and putting green; club provided
networking
2 drink tickets, heavy apps, and 1 raffle ticket

Networking Admission $75

Includes 2 drink tickets, heavy apps, and 1 raffle ticket
Excludes clinics and putting green

Advanced registration required. Onsite registration is not available.
Registration closes Thursday, April 30th at 4pm
Cancellation Policy: A minimum of 7 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund

Sponsorship Opportunities:
Please consider becoming a sponsor of the Tee Up for Success: WiA’s Professional Development Fundraiser. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Women in Architecture Professional Development Fund. This newly established fund supports WiA’s grant and scholarship initiatives, championing the advancement of women in the architecture, design and construction industries of Southeast Texas. Click here for more information.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
Gold

Silver

MGMC 2026 Awards Ceremony & Reception
2026-05-07 18:00 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us for the 2026 MGMC Award Ceremony!
Architecture Center Houston and AIA Houston will announce the winners of the 2026 Michael G. Meyers Design and Ideas Scholarship Competition.
This year’s MGMC award ceremony will be hosted at Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St, Houston, TX 77002 on May 7 at 6pm.
Please register if you plan to attend the ceremony. The reception is open to the public, and families are encouraged to attend. RSVPs are encouraged but not required.

Demystifying Fellowship
2026-05-08 12:00 - 13:30 | 902 Commerce, Houston, TX 77002, 902 Commerce, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Canan Yetmen, author and expert on the AIA fellowship process, will present an overview of the fellowship submittal process and offer tips and strategies for telling your professional story in a way that maximizes focus and impact. This program is a must for those nominated and/or interested in fellowship, but also valuable for those seeking a more powerful portfolio. Program is free. You’re welcome to bring your lunch.
When: May 8 at Noon
Where: Architecture Center Houston
For questions, please contact Aleks Savitski at aleks@aiahouston.org.

Museum District Walking Tour
2026-05-09 09:00 - 11:00 | Cullen Sculpture Garden, Montrose Boulevard at Bissonnet Street Houston, Houston, 77006
The Houston Museum District is one of the few areas in the country with such a dense population of museums, public art, contemporary architecture, and landscape design. On this 2-hour walking tour you will experience the quintessential Modernism of Mies van der Rohe, the structuralist view point of Gunnar Birkerts, the simplicity and craft of Isamu Noguchi, and the first free standing American structure designed by Yoshio Taniguchi. Come explore these and other world class examples of design with ArCH tour guides and trace the chronology of significant cultural shifts from the early twentieth century through today.
Tour meets at the entrance of the Cullen Sculpture Garden, which faces Bissonnet St. and is directly across from the MFAH. Street, lot, and garage parking available.
AIA Credit: 2.0 LU
AIA MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE:
Per AIA National CE Standards, any learning program approved for AIA Learning Units may award CE credit for the approved program for up to (3) years from the date of approval so long as the CES Provider is in good standing. AIA Members may repeat the same course, but no additional credit will be granted or recorded.

Touring The Gessner Center: Building with Nature for Resilience and Renewal
2026-05-09 10:00 - 11:30 | The Gessner Center, Galveston Bay Foundation, 1725 N Hwy 146, Kemah, Texas, 77565
Join us for a tour of the Galveston Bay Foundation’s new home, the Gessner Center. The Center demonstrates how architecture and landscape design can serve as active agents of ecological stewardship, advancing the Foundation’s mission to protect and restore the Gulf Coast environment while fostering meaningful community engagement.
Located in Kemah, the state-of-the-art four-acre headquarters facility, designed by Kirksey, includes event space, laboratories for water quality sampling, a living shoreline, trails, boardwalks, an observation deck, and educational and event spaces integrated within the natural habitats, creating ripple effects of environmental and social benefit that extend far beyond the property line. The Gessner Center embodies the importance of designing with ecological context in mind.
The tour will highlight the project’s pursuit of the Living Building Challenge goals, including net-positive water and energy strategies, material transparency, and habitat restoration, which is the world’s most rigorous green building certification.
Design Team
Architect: Kirksey Architecture
Landscape Architect: TBG Partners
General Contractor: Satterfield & Pontikes
MEP: CMTA
Civil Engineering: Duplantis Design Group
Structural: Pinnacle Structural Engineers
This event is free and open to the community.
AIA 1.5 HSW
ALSA 1 HSW

Urban Art Walking Tour
2026-05-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Market Square Park, 301 Milam St, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
This tour will look at public art, murals, architecture, place making and urban planning in Houston. Tour stops include Market Square Park, Buffalo Bayou, Lynn Wyatt Square and areas west of Main Street. Artists featured on this tour include Mel Chin, Paul Kittelson, Claes Oldenburg and Dean Ruck.
Meets in the NE Corner of Market Square Park. Street, lot and garage parking are available in the area.
Image: Geometric Mouse X by Claes Oldenburg

2026 Houston's Design Gala
2026-05-16 19:00 - 23:30 | Texas
Benefitting the Architecture Center Houston

Proceeds from the gala benefit the programs of the Architecture Center Houston (ArCH).
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7PM-Midnight
Where: The Shop Club Houston
Chairs: Catherine and Clayton Callaway
To Reserve Your Table: Complete the RESPONSE FORM and email it to Aleks Savitski at aleks@aiahouston.org
Program includes:

Award Presentation and Recognition of the winners of the Ben Brewer Young Architects Award, the AIA Houston Firm Award, and recognition of new firms designated as Emerging Professionals Friendly Firms.
Seated Dinner
Silent Auction
Networking and Live Music

ABOUT ArCH:
ArCH: Architecture Center Houston is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that cultivates public appreciation for architecture and its effect on the human experience through design-focused programming.
ArCH offers architectural tours, K-12 educational programs, community events, lectures, and exhibitions. The programs address a wide range of audiences and celebrate Houston’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Each year, ArCH programs benefit over 4,500 individuals and continue to grow in size, diversity and reach.
Over the years, the Architecture Center Houston Foundation has given over $400,000 for community assistance, publications, educational projects, exhibitions, and public service.
Grantees have included:
Blueprint Houston, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, Central Houston, Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Greater Houston Preservation Alliance, Houston Arts Alliance, Houston Public Library, Michael G. Meyers High School Design Competition, Project Row Houses, Rice University School of Architecture, Stella Link Redevelopment Association, and UH Gerald D Hines College of Architecture.
Expected Outreach: 800-1000 attendees. The event is publicized widely across the architecture, construction, and engineering community.
Sponsorships for this event are tax deductible as charitable contributions, less fair market value of the dinner.

Masonry Workshop
2026-05-20 16:00 - 18:00 | Restoration Services, Inc., 9810 Fairbanks North Houston Rd, Houston, 77064, United States
Masonry walls are not all the same! What repair methods are appropriate for the masonry wall system on your building?

Join AIA Houston’s Historic Resource Committee (HRC) for a masonry repair workshop to learn more about masonry wall systems, and appropriate repair methods. Nick Floyd and Glynnis Flaum from SGH will provide a short presentation to discuss the fundamentals of masonry systems (including differences between mass masonry, transitional masonry, and veneer/cavity wall systems common today), performance expectations and repair guidance for each, and some repair example case studies. Following the presentation, Restoration Services, Inc. (RSI) will lead hands-on workshop stations for some common masonry repairs like repointing, patching repairs, and remedial structural anchors.

Get ready to have fun and get your hands dirty!
AIA Credit: 2.0 HSW
Presentation Sponsors:
.

Additional Information:

Workshop stations will include some cutting/grinding and cementitious materials. Please dress in “construction appropriate” clothes – you may get dirty!
If you can, please bring your own safety glasses, gloves, and dust masks. RSI will supply PPE for those who do not have their own.
Parking is available in RSI surface lot – come though gate (look for RSI sign) and park along north fence.
A minimum of 5 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund if you need to cancel your reservation.

ARE Study Group - All Sections
2026-05-20 17:30 - 19:00 | 902 Commerce, Houston, TX 77002, 902 Commerce, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce
Presented in partnership with the Women in Architecture, Emerging Professionals, and Latinos in Architecture committees.
Join us for the New ARE Study Group session to build your momentum in studying for the ARE. Held in a new mentorship-style format, the session will offer an opportunity to focus on all sections of A.R.E. Bring your questions, your notes, your laptops, and your favorite personal study materials to compare with colleagues!
Additionally, we will discuss study materials and subscriptions available on the market, answer attendee questions, and offer a strategy for approaching and scheduling your exams.
This session will be held at Architecture Center Houston. Light bites and drinks will be provided.
See you there soon!

Coastal Resilience Lunch and Learn
2026-06-02 11:30 - 13:00 | Marmo, 2121 Market Street, Galveston, TX, United States
Join Vision Galveston for Coastal Resilience Lunch’N’Learn, presented by Dr. Jennifer Languell, Resilience Engineer for Babcock Ranch in Florida, on June 2 from 11:30 am – 1 pm at the Marmo.
As climate change intensifies, Babcock Ranch approaches resilience by working with the natural environment as a form of protection. Join Vision Galveston for a conversation with Dr. Jennifer Languell, sustainability engineer who was part of the team that created “the most resilient and sustainable community in Florida”.
As president and founder of Trifecta Construction Solutions, the award-winning Dr. Languell has championed the integration of “green” building principles and sustainable design for more than 24 years, offering cost effective solutions for informed decisions about green building and implementing environmental sustainability.
The event is free and includes lunch, but registration is required: https://forms.gle/rEAQzYmjqQr9zvvZ8

Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) Info Session (2026-2027)
2026-06-03 17:00 - 18:00 | Texas
Interested in spending meaningful time with fellow architects, industry and community leaders? The AIAH Emerging Professionals is preparing for the 2026-2027 class of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program. The year-long program consists of nine individual half-day sessions attended by a competitively selected group of 16 emerging professionals from Houston. The curriculum focuses on core skills such as entrepreneurship and firm management, the art of negotiation, bringing in new clients, community leadership, industry culture, and developing one’s future within the practice. The program will begin in September 2026.
Come join this diverse and passionate group of practice professionals. Get those letters of recommendation ready!
The official Call for Applications opens on Monday, May 18, and closes on Monday, June 29.
RSVP for an information session below:
Wednesday, June 3 at 5:00pm via Zoom
Thursday, June 11 at noon via Zoom
For more information about CKLDP visit here.
The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) was founded in 2013 by the Emerging Architects Committee as part of the AIA|DC Chapter. Since its founding, the CKLDP has been established in Washington DC, Denver, Detroit, Miami, Georgia and Houston, and strives to carry forward Christopher’s legacy by actively training and nurturing the next generation of leaders within the architectural profession.
Zoom link will be sent a few days before the info session.

Design Awards Presentation
2026-06-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us for the 2026 AIA Houston Design Awards Presentation to celebrate excellence in architecture by Houston-based firms and projects!
The AIA Houston Design Awards program recognizes design excellence in:

Architecture greater than 50,000 SF
Architecture less than 50,000 SF
Residential architecture
Interior architecture
Restoration/renovation
Divine detail
Urban design
On the boards
Conceptual

Criteria to be used by the jury include quality of design, resolution of the program idea, sustainable responsibility, innovation, thoughtfulness, and technique.
Learn about the 2026 jury here.

Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) Info Session (2026-2027)
2026-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | Texas
Interested in spending meaningful time with fellow architects, industry and community leaders? The AIAH Emerging Professionals is preparing for the 2025-2026 class of the Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program.
The year-long program consists of nine individual half-day sessions attended by a competitively selected group of 16 emerging professionals from Houston. The curriculum focuses on core skills such as entrepreneurship and firm management, the art of negotiation, bringing in new clients, community leadership, industry culture, and developing one’s future within the practice. The program will begin in September 2026.
Come join this diverse and passionate group of practice professionals. Get those letters of recommendation ready!
The official Call for Applications opens on Monday, May 18, and closes on Monday, June 29.
RSVP for an information session below:
Wednesday, June 3 at 5:00pm via Zoom
Thursday, June 11 at noon via Zoom
For more information about CKLDP visit here.
The Christopher Kelley Leadership Development Program (CKLDP) was founded in 2013 by the Emerging Architects Committee as part of the AIA|DC Chapter. Since its founding, the CKLDP has been established in Washington DC, Denver, Detroit, Miami, Georgia and Houston, and strives to carry forward Christopher’s legacy by actively training and nurturing the next generation of leaders within the architectural profession.
Zoom link will be sent a few days before the info session.

EP University: Documentation Planning and Scheduling
2026-06-17 11:30 - 13:30 | Powers Brown Architecture, MKT- 600 N Shepherd, Building 3, Suite 300, Houston, TX, 77007, United States
Join us for the kickoff session of the EP University Lecture Series. This first lecture, Documentation Planning and Scheduling, will explore the different phases of design delivery and create an alignment on what the documentation deliverables should be at each phase to create a true development timeline.
This session will help you:

Learn better processes
Improve confidence
Accelerate your learning to advance in the field more quickly
Become skilled at analyzing project risks

Presented by the subject matter expert, Jeanette Shaw of Powers Brown Architecture, this session offers 1LU CE credit.
Lunch is provided.
Location: Powers Brown Architecture, MKT 600 N Shepherd, Building 3, Suite 300, Houston, TX 77007
Advanced registration is required. Deadline: Friday, June 12 at 2PM.

Kinetics of Urban Movement
2026-06-18 17:30 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Architecture Center Houston is proud to announce their upcoming exhibition Kinetics of Urban Movement, opening Thursday, June 18, 5:30-7:30pm, curated by Rodrigo Gallardo, Bobby King and Shane Yee.
Skateboarding is not merely a subculture reacting against the built environment, but a distinct way of perceiving architecture and space.
Through their movement, skateboarders activate qualities already embedded in the built environment: geometry, material behavior, slope, continuity, friction, rhythm, and spatial sequence. Architectural elements often treated as background or residue of a design process (handrails, parking curbs, benches) become legible as primary moments. Empty swimming pools and deserted drainage ditches are radically reinhabited- becoming sites of engagement and gathering.
Seen this way, skateboarding does not merely occupy architecture differently but unlocks latent physical and spatial capacities that often exist beyond original design intention or prescribed function.
The exhibition traces how skateboarding reorders architectural value, elevating overlooked forms and explaining how these discoveries gave rise to the field of skatepark design.
Rather than asking what architecture was meant to do, skateboarding asks what architecture makes possible.
Event is free and open to the community.

Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark

Youth Novice Skateboarding Clinic with Cherries Wheels
2026-06-20 09:00 - 11:00 | The Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, 103 Sabine Street, Houston, Texas, 77007
Join ArCH and Houston Parks and Recreation Department on Saturday, June 20, for an introductory clinic designed to teach youth participants the proper technique of skateboarding and to enhance their overall experience at the skatepark. Cherries Wheels (Austin), Honey Stake Club (Houston), and Houston Skate Academy will be on site to lead participants through foundational skills in a fun and supportive environment. With guided instruction and free-skate time, kids can develop coordination and enjoy the excitement of skateboarding at their own pace.
Learning objectives include balance, pushing, rolling in, dropping in, park etiquette, safety, how to fall, and flexibility. Clinic is limited to 30 participants on a “first-come, first-served” basis. (onsite registration only).
Participants will need to bring their own skateboard, helmet, and water bottle. Refreshment provided.
Event Details:

Age: 6-17 years old.
Location: The Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, 103 Sabine Street, 77007
Date: Saturday, June 20, 9am-11am.
Cost: Free

This program is in conjunction with The Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.
Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark

New Building Tour: HCU's Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building
2026-06-25 15:30 - 17:30 | HCU, 7502 Fondren Rd., Houston, TX, 77074
Emerging Professional Committee invites you to tour HCU’s new Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building.
Houston Christian University partnered with Kirksey to design the 71,000-square-foot Smith Engineering, Science, and Nursing Building to expand its STEM and nursing programs and support future enrollment growth. Located on the east side of campus, the building blends modern elements like a glass curtain wall and cantilevered lab spaces with the university’s traditional architectural style. The ground floor is dedicated to engineering, the second floor to nursing with simulation labs, and the top floor to advanced science labs. Designed through a collaborative process, the facility also incorporates energy-efficient features and allows for future campus expansion.
Address:
7502 Fondren Rd.
Houston, TX 77074
This is a hard hat tour and PPE is required, Kirksey will provide if needed.
NOTE: If you need any physical accommodations, please get in touch with AIA Houston staff ahead of the tour.
Registration is required. Free to AIA members.

Full Day Continuing Education
2026-07-15 08:30 - 14:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
We cordially invite you to attend a full day of Continuing Education

8:30-9:00am Breakfast and Registration
9:00-10:00am
Energy Performance with Modern Glazing – 1.0 AIA HSW
Presented by Channing Wilson, Sierra Pacific Windows
10:00-11:00am
Generative Interiors: The Future of Architecture and Design – 1.0 AIA LU
Presented by Erick Calderon, La Nova Tile
11:00-Noon
Architectural Concrete Finishes for Interiors 2 – 1.0 AIA HSW
Presented by David Miller, Dungan Miller Design | Concrete Finishes
12:00-12:30pm
Break for Lunch
12:30-1:30pm
Texas Accessibility: From CAD to TABS – 1.0 AIA LU & Barrier Free
Presented by Meghan Simecek, Texas Accessibility Group
1:30-2:30pm
ADA Entrance Accessibility- 1.0 AIA HSW
Presented by Mark LeCrone & Amy Salmeron, Allegion Services Group, Greater Houston

Total AIA Learning Units: 5.0 LUs (3 HSW & 2 LU) Barrier Free included

Individual classes are not available for the event.
Pre-registered pricing includes breakfast and lunch
Parking is not included
A minimum of 3 business days’ notice is required to receive a full refund if you need to cancel your reservation
Online registration will close Friday, July 10
Onsite registration is available (breakfast and lunch is NOT included)

Navigating the Ropes: Syncing Skills and Strategy
2026-07-23 17:30 - 19:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
AIA Houston Emerging Professionals and Women in Architecture committees are partnering for an exciting mentorship event for young professionals in the AEC community. Join us for a panel with speakers from the industry with insight into early career experience and guidance on designing career paths.

2026 – Navigating the Ropes: Syncing Skills and Strategy
As you build your career in architecture, you’ll pick up skills, shift roles, and pursue credentials; slowly shaping the kind of professional you want to be. But growth takes more than technical expertise. It’s developed over time, through trial, feedback, and the occasional wrong turn; it takes intention.
This panel explores how to build that skill set on purpose. Through personal experience and practical advice, panelists will share how they defined their goals, advocated for themselves, and grew from where they started to where they are now.
Whether you’re weighing your next role or setting up your career, this session offers practical insight for growing both personally and professionally.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Panelists:

Brinn Miracle – Architangent
Michael Gonzales, AIA – Protolab
Catherine Callaway, AIA, LFA, LEED AP – Kirksey Architecture

Moderator:

Stephanie Pedigo, AIA, LEED AP – GSMArchitects

Time:

5:30pm, Networking
6:00-7:30 Program

Cost:

$10 General Admission
$5 Student

Design the Ride: A skatepark design workshop
2026-07-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Calling all creative thinkers! Get ready for an action-packed morning with the National Organization of Minority Architects, Houston, and Architecture Center of Houston, where design and skateboarding will collide.
What makes a skatepark unforgettable? Is it the bowls, a challenging stair set, a perfect handrail, or a quarter pipe that keeps riders coming back? In this hands-on workshop, students will explore how skateparks are designed to challenge, inspire, and bring communities together.
Students will work in groups to sketch, design, and build elements for a new community skatepark. At the end of the workshop, students will be able to share their designs and receive feedback from architects and use mini skateboards to experience their parks.
Immersed in the current exhibition at the Architecture Center of Houston, Kinetics of Urban Movement, students will be able to draw inspiration from the photographs, 3D-printed models, and skate park sculptures on display. Shane Yee, Rodrigo Gallardo, and Bobby King with Skate Ecosystems will share their experiences designing and riding skateparks.
Workshop Highlights:

Students will work in teams of 5-6 students.
Each team member will select a different element to add to the skatepark.
Students will draw, build, and sculpt their skatepark elements.
Teams will present their designs to the group, explaining features and design choices.
Architects & designers will be on hand to guide participants, answer questions, and share experiences.

This interactive event is perfect for students aged 7-12 who are excited to explore the world of architecture and unleash their creativity. Through fun activities and teamwork, participants will learn how to design while developing essential skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and skateboarding culture. Whether you’re already a skater or interested in designing and building, this is your chance to shape the future of Houston’s skate scene—one ramp, rail, and bowl at a time.
Design the Ride: A skatepark design workshop is part of the arcHERtecture workshop series, which encourages girls to explore careers in architecture.
This program is in conjunction with The Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.
Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark

Participatory Environments with Alexis Sablone
2026-08-01 14:00 - 15:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
How can we design more active and engaging cities? Drawing from experience as a professional skateboarder and designer, Alexis Sablone reflects on how movement shapes the way space is read, used, and reinterpreted, and how those ideas carry into their design work.

About Alexis Sablone
Alexis Sablone is an architect, designer and multidisciplinary artist, as well as a professional skateboarder and Olympian. They hold a BA from Barnard College, Columbia University, and a Masters in Architecture from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where they were both the Ida C. Green Fellow and recipient of the Imre Halasz Thesis Prize. Much of their work brings together their two worlds of architecture and skateboarding through the design of hybridized playscapes and large scale interactive sculptures in an ongoing exploration and interrogation of public space. Skateboarding, if nothing else, has provided an interesting case study for designers, as skate spaces consistently show themselves to be creatively used, shared and beloved by a broad, diverse and growing community. This diverse usership—cutting across spectrums of skill level, age, race and gender—demonstrates the potential that public play spaces hold, not just for skateboarders, but beyond. Alexis is currently a fellow at University of Chicago’s Gray Center for Art’s and Inquiry, where last spring they co-taught a course about the intersection of skateboarding culture, performance and urban space.

This program is in conjunction with The Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.

Image: Candy Courts. Courtesy of Alexis Sablone.
Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark

Everyday Self-Defense: Building Confidence Through Boundaries & De-escalation
2026-08-13 17:00 - 20:00 | Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu, 2016 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX, 77003, United States
In this self-defense session, the instructor, Sarah Degar, Jiu Jitsu black belt, and architect at GSMA, will share her unique approach to personal safety, focusing on two key objectives: setting boundaries and de-escalating potential uncomfortable situations. After demonstrating key techniques, attendees will partner up to practice, with the instructor offering guidance to each group.
The first part of the session will teach participants how to navigate unwanted physical contact in everyday situations, particularly with people they know. In professional and social contexts, it can be challenging to assert boundaries—especially for many women who already worry about being perceived as “unreasonable.” The instructor will address simple strategies to divert this contact to maintain comfort and autonomy. For example, a colleague approaches for a hug or puts an arm around the waist to pose for a photo. Attendees will be empowered to practice subtle yet effective ways to establish personal space without confrontation.
The second part of the session will address more serious scenarios, where the potential for physical harm exists. Whether the concern comes from someone familiar or not, de-escalation is crucial. Participants will learn techniques to create and maintain a safe distance, keep a steady stance to avoid being easily pushed or pulled, and how to break free from various types of holds. The session will wrap up with interactive games designed to reinforce the skills learned, making it fun and memorable while encouraging participants to continue practicing on their own.

Concrete Cosmos: Composing Skate Architecture
2026-08-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Texas
In Concrete Cosmos: Composing Skate Architecture, Shane Yee presents skate architecture qua architecture, framing the skatepark as a paradigmatic yet unacknowledged achievement of the contemporary moment, characterized by adaptive reuse, the blurring of public and private space, an emphasis on lifestyle recreation, and the ascent of subcultural practices into mainstream culture. Skate spaces manifest in fluid, naturalistic configurations, converging with land art and anticipating parametric/ digital aesthetics; yet despite this sophistication, the language and principles of the discipline remain largely unarticulated.
Drawing on a half-century history of skatepark design (1976-2026) and his own work at Skate Ecosystems, Yee offers a chronological series of architectural close readings, examining design intentions, ordering logics, and formal arrangements. The lecture establishes skate architecture as an emergent field with significant cultural, spatial, and spiritual implications, capable of producing elevated human experiences.

About Shane Yee
Shane Yee earned his Bachelor of Architecture degree from NewSchool of Architecture & Design in San Diego, California. Mr. Yee has a broad range of experiences and capabilities in all phases of project planning, design and construction- from acquisition through operations and maintenance. He has designed award-winning projects including residential, multifamily, civic, religious, master planning, and of course, skate spaces. As an officer in the United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps, Mr. Yee expertly designed & managed DOD projects with a total value of 100+ million to include Design-Build, DBB, and MILCON construction. Mr. Yee is a member of the American Institute of Architects, Society of American Military Engineers, and US Green Building Council.

This program is in conjunction with Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.
Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark

The Architectural History of Houston Street Skating
2026-09-26 09:00 - 11:00 | Tranquility Park, 400 Rusk, Houston, Texas, 77002
Join lifelong skateboarder and architectural historian Ted Barrow on a walking tour of the highlights of Houston’s Modernist and Late-Modernist architecture through a skateboarder’s perspective. The tour will cover key plazas and buildings which became local, state-wide, and eventually global skateboarding destinations from the late 1980’s to today.

About Ted Barrow
Theodore (Ted) Barrow is an art historian, writer, curator, and lecturer whose work bridges academic scholarship and contemporary currents. Born in Bolinas, California, he holds a Ph.D. in art history from the Graduate Center, CUNY, where he explored the Florida paintings of Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent through an ecocritical lens. Barrow has taught at Barnard College, Baruch College, City College of New York, and the University of San Francisco. Outside of art and academia, he is a distinctive voice in skateboarding culture, known for This Old Ledge, a video series that investigates the cultural and architectural significance of global skate spots.”

This program is in conjunction with The Kinetics of Urban Movement, on view at the Architecture Center Houston from June 18-September 26.

Exhibition Sponsors and Community Partners
Kinetics of Urban Movement is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance

Cherries Wheels
Honey Skate Club
Houston Parks and Recreation Department
Houston Skate Academy
Select
Skate ECOSYSTEMS
Southside Skatepark
