AIA Houston

HXD Week: Library of the Future
2025-08-22 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library, 11630 Chimney Rock Rd., Houston, TX, 77035, United States
Library of the Future — A tour Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library
An architecture tour of the completed Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library will offer real-world insights into how design can help libraries transform into hubs for cutting-edge technology and multi-disciplinary creativity. The tour will look at how embracing new media and diverse community needs inspires, uplifts, and answers the question of how to bridge traditional and innovative programs to foster collaboration. Once a forgotten post office site, the Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library is a vibrant, art-filled public gathering space with a café, flexible meeting areas, private study rooms, and a variety of seating. In addition to housing traditional book stacks and cozy reading areas for all ages, the library features innovative spaces for collaboration and interaction, including a maker lab, audio/visual and podcast recording spaces, and TECHLink services.

About the Speakers

Fernando Brave, FAIA, RID, LEED AP
Principal
BRAVE/architecture
As Founder and Principal of BRAVE/architecture, Fernando, a registered architect and LEED Accredited Professional, directs the firm and its work. His varied professional experience ranges from projects for individuals, community renovations, to large institutional projects for clients such as the YMCA of Greater Houston and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. He has also been a key player in large masterplanning and development projects both in the United States and abroad. As Principal-in-Charge and Lead Designer,Fernando has final review and oversight of all design.
Fernando has lectured on Green Architecture amongst other topics and contributed to multiple publications. His work has been featured in Architectural Record, Texas Architect, The Houston Chronicle, The Dallas Morning News, the Houston Architectural Guide, American School & University Magazine, and numerous other publications. Additionally, he has received many awards, including several private competitions, Honor Awardsfrom the Houston American Institute of Architects, Texas Society of Architects, American Society of Interior Designers, and the Houston Chronicle, among many others. As a team member, he also supported AIA National Award for Religious Architecture and the Associated General Contractors APEX Award-winning projects.
Prior to moving to Houston in 1987, Fernando completed a six-year undergraduate architecture program atthe Universidad de Belgrano in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he briefly taught design studio and architectural history. He then graduated from the University of Houston with a Master of Architecture in 1988. Fernando was elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects in 2012 in recognitionof his advancement of the profession through his outstanding practice. Fernando has traveled extensively through Europe and the Americas. He also continues to be a part of numerous boards, including the City of Houston Planning Commission, the Rice Design Alliance, the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission, the AIA Houston, and the Houston Chamber Orchestra.

Peter Ho, AIA
Associate Principal
BRAVE/architecture
As an Associate Principal, Peter’s focus includes overseeing all phases of design and construction on projects ranging from civic facilities, commercial spaces, interior renovations, and masterplanning. Peter, a registered architect, has been a key player in the firm’s success for almost two decades as a major design team contributor and production studio leader. He enjoys the challenge of space programming and creating concept renderings. This technical proficiency in design software and graphic visualization allows Peter to leverage histalents in managing and producing quick conceptual models, presentation-quality renderings, and virtual reality immersion.
From concept to reality, some of Peter’s award-winning projects include the Dr. Shannon WalkerNeighborhood Library, Houston Zoo Headquarters, and ReCenter—all of which have collected numerous accolades. He graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Architecture in 2007 and continues to serve as a mentor for emerging design professionals. He even finds teaching opportunities within theintricacies of construction detailing, manufacturing, and installations. Most notably, Peter is an assertive listener, a skilled technical thinker, and an empathic problem-solver.

Parking information
Surface lot and street parking available.

HXD Week: Page Fabrication Tour
2025-08-22 11:30 - 13:00 | Page, 6501 Navigation Blvd., STE Y106, Houston, TX, 77092, United States
Page Fabrication Tour
Please join us for a casual tour and presentation of Page’s fabrication studio. Located in Houston’s East End Maker Hub, our 5,000-square-foot Fabrication Shop is part of a larger ecosystem of innovation and creativity. The East End Maker Hub is Houston’s premier center for manufacturing and fabrication, designed to support everything from manufacturer innovation and small-batch production to crafting and traditional fabrication. Co-located with TX/RX Labs, Houston’s largest manufacturing incubator, the East End Maker Hub offers an incredible resource network for all tenants. This includes access to over $2 million worth of state-of-the-art prototyping and fabrication equipment, on-site technical support, and an array of classes that expand skill sets and encourage collaboration.

About the Speakers
Matt Vaclavik
Director of Fabrication
Page
Matt brings an expert eye and a maker’s mindset to his leadership of the Page Fabrication Studio. With a deep foundation in woodworking, metalwork, and product design, sparked during his time at Texas Tech and refined through years of hands-on experience, he is passionate about pushing design through craft. His nine-year tenure at a classical architecture firm sharpened his skills in detailing, project delivery, and collaboration on standout projects like St. John’s School and Lott Hall. Matt’s enthusiasm for materials and tools fuels his drive to elevate design through purposeful iteration and shared discovery.

Alejandro Nunez
Lead Fabrication Designer
Page
Alejandro is an experienced designer with more than 10 years of custom fabrication experience. He is passionate about design and woodworking details and loves finding ways to bring complex ideas to life.

Jessica George
Fabrication Designer
Page
Jessica was born and raised in Cairo, Egypt. She studied Architecture at TTU, where she worked in fabrication shops and discovered her passion for making and mentoring students. She values the process of making as a tool for communication and exploration. Jessica believes physical modeling and prototyping significantly inform and enhance design outcomes. Curiosity and iteration are central to her design process, guiding her toward thoughtful and impactful solutions.

Jose Varela
Fabrication Designer
Page
Originally from Chile, Jose comes from an international background, having lived in Latin America, Asia, and now the United States. He attended Tulane University, where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture. At Tulane, he explored interests in CNC digital fabrication, urban design, and visual communication. Guided by research and an iterative process, Jose brings his design passion to projects of all scales.

Refreshments and light bites will be provided.
Parking information
Surface lot
Page’s shop is located in the East End Maker Hub warehouse building with plenty of surface parking. Our space is located on the northern-most corner of the building, please see parking map HERE.

Wood Rot Repair Workshop
2025-08-23 - 2025-08-24 | Luckie School, 1004 Palmer Street, Houston, TX, 77003, United States
Wood Rot Repair Workshop – Windows, Doors & More
Presented by the AIA Houston Historic Resources Committee
In partnership with Luckie’s Pocket

Space is Limited to 16 participants

About the Workshop
Step inside a piece of Houston’s history for a hands-on, two-day Wood Rot Repair Workshop focused on repairing wood rot with traditional patching methods.
Hosted at the 1919 historic Luckie School, this workshop is a rare opportunity to gain preservation skills in an active rehabilitation setting. The Luckie School—currently being reimagined as Luckie’s Pocket, a future community arts space—serves as the perfect backdrop for exploring time-tested techniques in material conservation.
Led by experts from Preservan, attendees will work in small groups to learn and practice traditional wood repair methods essential for preserving historic structures. This immersive experience is ideal for architects, preservationists, craftspeople, students, and anyone with an interest in hands-on building conservation.
The workshop includes 2 full day’s of guided instruction and a closing site tour with Houston artist Gonzo247, who is helping lead the creative revitalization of the site.
Schedule
Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM
What’s Included

Morning breakfast with pastries, fruit, and coffee
Hydration station: water, snacks, and sunscreen
All tools, materials, and safety instruction
Guided tour with Houston Artist Gonzo247
8.0 Total AIA HSW CEUs

Advanced registration required. Onsite registration is not available.
Cancellation Policy: A minimum of 7 days’ notice is required to receive a full refund

Click here for sponsorship opportunities
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!

ARE Study Group PPD/PDD
2025-08-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Identity Architects, 111 Travis St, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Time: 6PM
Location: Identity Architects, 111 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002
Join us for the ARE Study Group session this year to build your momentum in studying for the ARE. Bring your questions, your notes, your laptops, and your favorite personal study materials to compare with colleagues!
We will focus on the PPD and PDD sections of the exam. Additionally, we will discuss study material and subscriptions that are on the market, answer attendee questions, and provide strategy for approaching and scheduling your exams.
This session will be held at Identity Architects. Light bites and drinks will be provided.
See you there soon!

Full Day Continuing Education
2025-08-26 08:30 - 15:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Join us for a Urbanism Continuum CE day!

8:30-9:00am Breakfast and Registration
9:00-10:15am
Healthier Streets for Houstonians <1.25 AIA HSW & 1.25 LA/CES HSW>
Presented by Donna Kacmar, FAIA
10:15-11:30am
Bird’s Eye View: Crafting Bird-Friendly Designs <1.25 AIA HSW & 1.25 LA/CES HSW>
Presented by Chloe Crumley, National Audubon Society
11:30-12:15pm
Break for Lunch
12:15-1:30pm
One Campus One Team, Transformation of the American Airlines Campus <1.25 AIA HSW & 1.25 LA/CES HSW>
Presented by Andrew Albers, AIA, OJB
1:30-3:00pm
Reclaiming Main Street: Designing a Lasting Legacy in the Public Realm < 1.50 AIA HSW & 1.50 LA/CES HSW>
Presented by Alex Ramirez, PLA & Sarah Smith, PLA, CDT, Design Workshop and Joey Sanchez, Blue Tile Project
Continuing Education Credits:

AIA = 5.25 HSW
LA/CES = 5.25 HSW

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 Thursday, August 21
Onsite registration is available for day of (breakfast and lunch is NOT included)

TertuLiAs
2025-08-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Gensler, 909 Fannin St UNIT 200, Houston, 77010, United States
Of the over 121,000 registered architects in the United States, only 6 percent identify as Latino or Hispanic, according to NCARB. Latinos represent 19.1 percent of the total U.S. population, the nation’s second largest ethnic group. In Houston, Latinos comprise 44.1 percent of the population.
Join the Latinos in Architecture (LiA) Committee for an intimate conversation engaging leadership from firms of different sizes on their efforts to increase that percentage, empower their Latino employees, develop and support a pipeline of future Latino architects from high schools and colleges, and giving a voice to Latinos.
This conversation will focus on managing principals of mid and large-sized firms, including Ruben Martinez (PGAL), Sandra Morrison, RA (Ziegler Cooper), Maria Perez, AIA (Gensler) and Cindy Villareal, AIA (O’Connell Robertson). These leaders will discuss managing a firm, their values on hiring practices and how they maintain a culturally diverse firm and staff.
Happy hour sponsored by Gensler.
Available parking options include the 2 Houston Center Garage and the 803 Fannin Garage; please check the parking garage website for rates. There is also metered street parking in the area.

About the Panelists
Ruben Martinez
Principal, PGAL
With over 30 years of experience in architecture and planning, Ruben has led projects ranging from Texas’s largest historic courthouse restoration to a net-zero facility. His ability to understand client needs, combined with a passion for design and attention to detail, sets him apart.
A graduate of the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Architecture, Ruben has dedicated more than 20 years of his career to PGAL, excelling at project management, design, and planning, helping guide prominent public projects in Greater Houston from concept to completion with a reputation for delivering excellence.
Sandra Morrison, RA, LEED AP
Associate Principal of Urban Residential, Ziegler Cooper
Sandra Morrison is a native of Colombia and holds a Master’s degree in Architecture combined with experience encompassing urban, residential, and commercial design. Cumulatively, she’s worked for Ziegler Cooper for just over a decade.
She has worked on design projects in Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Dubai, and the U.S. and can speak native Spanish and fluent English. Versatility continues throughout Sandra’s work with her extensive research on new designs and advanced technical aspects.

Maria Perez, AIA
Climate Action & Sustainability Leader, Sustainability Director, Senior Associate, Gensler
Maria is a Climate Action & Sustainability Leader for Gensler’s South Central region and a Sustainability Director, based in Gensler’s Houston office. She serves as one of the firm’s leading sustainability ambassadors, promoting resilience, wellness, performance-based design, climate action, and our Gensler GC3 goals.
Maria is a LEED Fellow with multiple credentials, WELL AP, Fitwel Ambassador, and Licensed Architect and Interior Designer. As an industry leader, promoting green building and sustainable living practices, Maria is currently serving as the chair of the Board of Directors of the U.S. Green Building Council Texas Chapter. She helps architects and designers focus on health and wellness and discover how they can design more energy-efficient buildings with lower building and operating costs.

Cindy Villarreal, AIA
Director of Houston Office, O’Connell Roberrtson
Cindy Villarreal is a seasoned leader in architectural planning and project acquisition, with a strong focus on higher education and healthcare initiatives across Texas. As the Houston Office Director, Cindy is instrumental in expanding business development efforts throughout the Houston region while driving strategic growth statewide.
With decades of experience in the design of higher education and Science and Technology facilities, Cindy has led projects ranging from allied health and nursing schools to dental institutions and advanced diagnostics and neuroscience laboratories. Her expertise lies in managing multidisciplinary design teams and fostering collaboration to ensure projects are delivered successfully.
Cindy is a passionate advocate for sustainable and resilient design. She champions human-centric environments that prioritize occupant well-being and support thriving communities. Her leadership continues to shape spaces that are not only functional and efficient but also inspiring and inclusive.

AIA/ AGC Joint Committee September 2025 Lunch and Learn
2025-09-03 11:00 - 13:00 | AGC Houston, 3825 Dacoma Street, Houston, TX, 77092, United States
Architects & Contractors Roundtable: Bridging the Gap
Tired of RFIs that read like riddles? Wondering what’s behind the decisions on drawing revisions or submittal rejections? You’re not alone—and this is your chance to find real answers.
Join us for an engaging, high-impact roundtable designed to foster learning, professional growth, and deeper cross-disciplinary understanding between architects, contractors, and construction professionals.
This interactive event isn’t a lecture or a panel—it’s a dynamic forum for open dialogue, real-world problem-solving, and practical skill-building. You’ll gain firsthand insights into how your counterparts think, work, and make decisions—so you can anticipate issues, improve communication, and deliver more successful projects.
What You’ll Learn:

Best practices for managing drawing revisions and documentation
How to streamline submittals and substitution requests while minimizing scope creep
Clarifying roles, responsibilities, and expectations with RFIs
Strategies for more effective bidding and estimating collaboration

Seats are limited—register today and come ready to ask questions, share insights, and sharpen your skills.
Note: Please choose the correct registration link for your professional role so we can create balanced and effective roundtable groups.
Event schedule:

11:00 – 11:30 Registration, networking & lunch
11:30 – 1:00 Program

RSVP Here

Speed Mentoring
2025-09-03 17:30 - 19:30
Modeled after speed dating, speed mentoring focuses on a quick exchange of information in the form of small group discussions on goals and professional challenges. It’s an efficient way to rapidly build your professional network, and share successful ways to excel in the design profession. Who knows you might just find someone that is a good fit for an on-going mentor relationship!

Date: Wednesday, September 3
Location: Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce, Houston, TX
General Admission: $10, $5 for students (Advanced registration is required)

Schedule:

5:30pm Networking
6:00pm-7:30pm Speed Mentoring Sessions

Mentors:

Sheryl Kolasinski, FAIA, Non-Profit Cultural Leader & Artist
Clarissa Foster, Turner Construction Company
Amaya Labrador, AIA, human eXperience
Claudia Barreda, AIA, Laura U Design Collective
Jamila Jawdat, AIA, HKS
Nicole Hernandez-Barrios, AIA, Stantec
Linda Porras-Pirtle, AIA, Secretariat
Elizabeth Gilbert, PLA, Clark Condon
Arlis Brodie, Telios
Jody Sergi, AIA, Kirksey Architecture

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR!

Iwan Baan: The Notational Surface
2025-09-03 18:00 - 20:00 | William T. Cannady Hall, Rice School of Architecture
Exhibitions at Rice — Houston Archive Project

Lecture: Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
Opening Reception: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Exhibition on View: September 3–October 25, 2025
Location: Exhibitions at Rice, William T. Cannady Hall, Rice School of Architecture
Admission: Free and open to the public
The Rice School of Architecture presents Iwan Baan: The Notational Surface, a new solo exhibition by the world-renowned Dutch photographer whose work has reshaped how we see cities and the lives they hold. Developed over the past five years for the school’s Houston Archive Project, the exhibition traces the city from the street to the sky, offering a layered reading of its infrastructures, interdependencies, and environmental precarity.
Installed across two floors of Cannady Hall, the exhibition shifts visitors’ vantage points—from expansive aerial surveys of oil landscapes, intermodal networks, and polycentric suburbs. Printed on industrial blue-back affiche paper and suspended at sharp angles, the photographs create a spatial montage that invites viewers to “read” Houston as an active surface of marks, flows, and forces.
A full-color catalog accompanies the exhibition, featuring a foreword by William Ward Watkin Dean Igor Marjanović, and an essay by architect and theorist Clare Lyster, whose interpretive framework lends the title The Notational Surface. Together, these texts situate Baan’s images within a broader discourse on representation, asking how seeing differently might enable more just and imaginative futures.
Launched in 2024, the Houston Archive Project is a curatorial platform for architectural thinking grounded in the specificity of place. By commissioning significant new bodies of work, the project continues a lineage at the school of photographic inquiry into Houston’s evolving urbanism—work that connects local conditions to planetary systems and publics.
This program is made possible through the generous support of the Betty R. and George F. Pierce Jr., FAIA, Fund; the William B. Coleman Jr. Colloquium Fund for Architecture; and the Wm. W. Caudill Lecture Series Fund.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Exhibitions at Rice
As a curatorial program of the Rice School of Architecture, Exhibitions at Rice uses the lens of design research to look at the world differently. Mobilizing a full spectrum of architectural representation—including drawing, imaging, making, and prototyping—this program weaves together scholarly inquiry, visual experimentation, and public engagement. Across all scales, from objects to buildings, cities, and the planet, Exhibitions at Rice engages the discipline of architecture as a cultural practice with a civic mandate, creating new discourses for both local and global audiences.

Sandcastle T-Shirt Distribution Event
2025-09-04 17:00 - 19:00 | Debner, 6930 Portwest Drive, Houston, TX, 77024, United States
Registered Sandcastle teams and sponsors are invited to the T-shirt Distribution Party on Thursday, September 4. At least one representative from each team must attend to pick up team signs, t-shirts, wristbands and team packets. Important instructions will be given, including beach condition updates and other information.
Sandcastle T-Shirt Distribution Event sponsored by

Sally Walsh Lecture Series - Lee F. Mindel, FAIA
2025-09-04 18:30 - 20:00 | Brown Auditorium at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1001 Bissonnet St., Houston, TX, 77005, United States
Architect Lee F. Mindel FAIA, Principal and Co-Founder of SheltonMindel presents a lecture on “Integration of Architecture and Interior Design”.
SheltonMindel is one of the top American interpreters of classic modernism in the industry today. Guided by principles of light, nature and simplicity, SheltonMindel’s renowned designs and creations focus on simple construction, organic shapes and unity of materials. From stand-alone residences to corporate interiors and furniture and product design, the firm’s work illustrates the modern tenet that, as Mies van der Rohe stated, “The space within becomes the reality of the building”.

About the Speaker

New York-based architect Lee F. Mindel, FAIA, and founding member of SheltonMindel is regarded as one of the top American interpreters of classic modernism in the industry today with over 60 industry awards. Guided by principles of light, nature and simplicity, the firm’s designs transcend form and function to become works of art. In 2011, Mindel was awarded the prestigious Cooper Hewitt National Design Award by First Lady Michelle Obama in the White House, and in 2021, was one of the few professionals inducted into the AD100 Hall of Fame for contributions in both categories: Architecture and Interior Design. Mindel regularly appears as a Design Titan on Elle Decor’s A-List, and in 2024, was featured in Galerie Magazine’s roundup of Creative Minds for his art and design space, Galerie56.
Galerie56 was founded in 2022, occupying the ground floor of Herzog de Meuron’s much lauded 56 Leonard tower. The AIA award-winning space, designed by SheltonMindel, celebrates the intersection of art, architecture, and design with a diverse series of exhibitions featuring international artists, galleries, and movements. Galerie56 reflects the deep American ethos of inclusion and diversity.
Mindel has served on various AIA committees for 4 years, and has been a juror of AIA Awards in the Architecture and Interior categories for 3 years.
Mindel received his Master of Architecture from Harvard University in 1976 after obtaining his Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude, with Distinction in Architecture, at the University of Pennsylvania.

Sally Walsh Lectures are supported by an endowed fund of the Houston Architecture Foundation.
The lectures are dedicated to the memory of one of Houston’s most distinguished interior designers, Sally Walsh, who brought modern design to Houston and became an inspiration to a whole generation of Houston architects and designers.
All Sally Walsh lectures are free and open to the public.

Lecture and Book Signing with Megan Kimble, author of City Limits
2025-09-10 06:00 - 20:00 | MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX, 77002, United States
6pm – Networking & Book Signing
7pm – Lecture
MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX
“In City Limits, journalist Megan Kimble weaves together the origins of urban highways with the stories of ordinary people impacted by our failed transportation system.”
Join Houston Design Collaborative to explore Ms. Kimble’s work through her unique perspective. Learn more about the book and author here.
RSVP here.

Latinos in Architecture: MaS
2025-09-10 18:30 - 20:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
The Latinos in Architecture (LiA) collegiate Mentorship and Scholarship program (MaS), through AIA Houston and Architecture Center Houston, intends to bridge the gap between students and professionals in the Latino architecture community. The MaS program matches college students pursuing a career path in architecture with a mentor who has an established career in the field. The program is for Latino students who are striving to influence the future of the built environment and the architecture profession. MaS will kick off on September 10, 2025, and conclude in May 2026.

PROGRAM ELIGIBILITYfor the mentorship:

Students have the option of only particpating in the mentorship program and not pursue the scholarship. But, students are welcome to participate in any of the events related to MaS.
Student pursuing a degree in architecture at the University of Houston, Rice University, or Prairie View A&M University.
The program is open to both US citizens and foreign students.

for the scholarship:

Students with at least one more academic year to apply scholarship funds directly to tuition.
Students with full scholarships are not eligible.

SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTSThe 2025-2026 program starts in September 2025 and ends in May 2026.

Regularly check in with an assigned mentor (at least 4 times). These meetings can be in-person, virtual, or via phone call.
​Participate in the kick-off event where they will meet the mentors. Kick-off will take place September 10 at 7pm. Register here.
Participate in the portfolio review organized by the LiA Committee.
Attend three LiA, AIAH, TSA or HNOMA sponsored events. Not including student chapters or student-led events.
Attend their university or college career fair.
Submit a PDF on a project or portfolio at the end of the Fall semester.
Submit a 5-minute video on a project or portfolio at the end of the Spring semester. The video should not be a recording of a class crit and should not exceed 5 minutes.

AWARDS
Students must participate in the listed activities to be considered for the scholarship. These activities are meant to support and complement the student’s academic career. Scholarships will be awarded based on student participation in the program and their end-of-semester submission, which will be reviewed by a jury.

Galveston Sandcastle Festival
2025-09-13 10:00 - 2025-09-14 21:00
The Galveston Sandcastle Festival is a music, food and family festival hosted on East Beach in Galveston, TX, centered around the AIA Houston Sandcastle Competition (presented by 811 Call or Click Before You Dig).
General Admission:
Saturday: $15
Sunday: $10
Parking: $15 (not included with the purchase of your wristband(s)).
Purchase General Admission Wristbands HERE!
For Team and Sponsor information, click HERE.

Lunch & Learn: Accessibility and the Mega Events
2025-09-23 11:30 - 13:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Accessibility and the Mega Events
About this Course
Architecture plays a pivotal role in the success of mega events, as it shapes the physical environments. One of the key elements in the planning of mega events is accessibility. We will be talking specifically about accessibility and the Olympic and Paralympic Games. We will also touch on the World Cup coming to Houston 2026. Accessibility when done properly allows a smooth operation and promotes the inclusion of all stakeholders responding to the principles of both sports events. The objective of this presentation is to have look at accessibility at scale of stadiums when transformed for the mega events.

About the speaker:

Ileana Rodriguez, PLY, Principal Owner at I Design Access, LLC
Principal at I Design Access, LLC and international architectural designer consultant for major infrastructure projects with a focus on inclusive design. My experience comes from working for clients such as the International Paralympic Committee, national sports organizations and a variarety of architecture firms. I have been involved as a consultant to oversee different size of projects from Olympic/Paralympic Stadiums and airports to smaller sports facilities, hotels and temporary infrastructure. The projects have taken place in Europe, Asia and The Americas in a dozen of different countries. Ileana is a Paralympic swimmer and former member of the USA Team for the London 2012 Games.
Continuing Education Credit:

AIA = 1.0 HSW (Barrier Free)

Schedule:

11:30am Check-in and lunch
12:00-1:00pm Presentation

Pre-registered pricing includes box 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 Wednesday, September 17
Onsite registration is available for day of (lunch is NOT included)

Designed with Taste: Camaraderie
2025-09-23 17:00 - 19:00 | Camaraderie, 608 W 11th St, Houston, TX, 77008
“Shawn cooked for us before we started designing, and it was clear from that moment on that he wanted to create a space to serve exquisitely conceived and executed dishes, but generously and in an environment that felt unpretentious,” Troy Schaum said.
The design for the chef-owned restaurant Camaraderie converts an existing, former residential garage and wood shop into an elevated family-style restaurant. Schaum Architects strove to retain as much of the existing building as possible, reusing almost all of the existing structure, concrete slab, and exterior metal wall panels. Set in The Heights, the 75-seat restaurant is situated within a 1990s corrugated metal building, updated with grey and blue paint. The interior is wrapped in birch wall panels and built-in banquette seating, which warms the space, giving the feeling of dining in a friend’s home.
The kitchen, at the heart of the project, opens like a stage onto the dining room, where guests have an uninterrupted view of chef Shawn Gawle at work. Chef Gawle’s menu has a contemporary American cuisine rooted in French techniques. Most recently, Gawle served as executive pastry chef at Houston’s Goodnight Hospitality and was recently named Best New Pastry Chef by Food & Wine magazine and Rising Star Chef by StarChefs.
Join us for a tour of Camaraderie and a sampling of fare with Troy Schaum of Schaum Architects and Chef Shawn Gawle of Camaraderie.
Camaraderie received an AIA 2025 Design Award for Interior Architecture.
Designed with Taste, an event series from Architecture Center Houston explores Houston’s newest restaurants to examine how design affects the dining experience. Hear about the design inspiration for the spaces, and how it interacts with the culinary offerings. Is the food influenced by the design, or is it the other way around? Enjoy lite bites and cocktails and decide for yourself.

Image courtesy of Leonid Furmansky.

ArCH Walking Tour Docent Training
2025-09-27 09:00 - 11:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Do you enjoy Houston architecture and history? Eager to share that knowledge with others?
Join us at Architecture Center Houston for our free walking tour docent training.
Docent training classes will be held on Saturday, September 20, 27, and October 11. Each class includes public speaking training and tours. The classes will be led by our staff and experienced tour docents and are open to all. This is a great opportunity to learn about Houston architecture and history while also brushing up on your presentation skills.
After completing the classes, docents will work with an experienced docent to begin leading our walking and bicycle tours. After the initial 3-day commitment for training, we ask docents to volunteer for 3 – 6 tours each season (October – May).
Our tours are attended by visitors of all ages and backgrounds from all over the world and locals living throughout the greater Houston area. This is a fun way to meet a wide variety of people interested in the built environment and all things Houston.

COLORES
2025-10-01 18:00 - 20:30 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
COLORES, Latinos in Architecture’s sixth annual celebration of Latino culture, will take place October 1-3, 2025 at Architecture Center Houston and Kirksey Architecture, with conversations and presentations by Jesús Edmundo Robles, Jr., Assoc. AIA and Cade Manning Hayes, AIA, of DUST, AZ; Nadia Palacios Lauterbach, AIA, of Nadia Palacios architecture + interiors + landscape; Tony Diaz, El Librotraficante, Director of Nuestra Palabra: Latinos Having Their Say; Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ; a conversation and tour of the future home of the Houston Hispanic Research Center with the City of Houston, the Houston Public Library, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Brave/; Light bites by Avila Experiences; curated dinner by Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ Thursday evening ; performances by Danmar Academy of Performing Arts and a Mariachi quartet lead by Julian Corona-Medina.
Please consider becoming a sponsor of COLORES. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Latinos in Architecture scholarship program, established by the AIA Houston Latinos in Architecture Committee in 2019. More information about the scholarship program may be found here.

Wednesday, October 1, 6pm
On Wednesday, October 1 we are thrilled to welcome Nadia Palacios Lauterbach, AIA of Nadia Palacios architecture + interiors + landscape and Tony Diaz, El Librotraficante, Director of Nuestra Palabra: Latinos Having Their Say.
Nadia Palacios grew up in Nicaragua surrounded by books. Her parents were retired teachers and owned a bookstore. At night her father, a history professor, would share his favorite stories, Julius Caesar crossing the Rubicon, Alexander the Great conquests, the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza. Traveling the world, through stories created a lasting impression associating those places and the unique architecture.
Nadia will share her personal journey into becoming an architect and how her family, culture and travels have shaped her. Despite leaving Nicaragua in her teens, her Latinidad never left her and has become an integral part of my identity as a person and as a professional.

I form part of the generation that grew up translating English from the outside world into Spanish for our household. Today, we are the generation that translates our community to the rest of the world through common structures and tools that form reality.
Tony Diaz
Tony Diaz is the founder and director of Nuestra Palabra, which a community-driven platform dedicated to amplifying the voice of Latino authors and visual artists within the community. He became the first Chicano to earn a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Houston. Diaz recently published The Tip of The Pyramid: Cultivating Community Cultural Capital (2022), which explores the power of cultural and community capital. Diaz is also one of the nation’s leading forces in fighting book bans and cultural censorship. He was dubbed El Librotraficante, or book trafficker, a decade ago after leading a grassroots campaign transporting thousands of banned books to Arizona, which had removed Mexican-American studies classes from public-school curriculum.
Tony will share his story, the Nuestra Palabra movement and why it’s important to celebrate the rich diversity of Latino literature and visual art, offering narratives that resonate with the experiences and perspectives of the community.
Lite bites provided by Avila Experiences.
Architecture Center Houston
902 Commerce St
Houston, TX 77002

About Nadia Palacios Lauterbach, AIA
Nadia Palacios Lauterbach is a registered Architect in the state of Texas and the state of Colorado. She credits her passion for design and architecture to her upbringing in the colonial cities of Nicaragua. She attended the prestigious School of Architecture at the University of Notre Dame, where she received a bachelor’s degree in architecture in 2003. Nadia In 2009, Nadia founded Nadia Palacios Architecure + Interiors + Landscape, where she pursues challenges in design and specializes in the creation of Homes and Gardens.
Nadia draws inspiration from many sources, particularly from her travels through Europe and Latin America, and she believes that architecture must stand the test of time and trends, that all spaces must be livable and human in scale, and that everything built must be beautiful.
Nadia lives with her husband John and sons Alexander and Lorenzo in a 1920’s bungalow in Houston’s Heights neighborhood; in her free time, she enjoys drawing, dancing Flamenco, and volunteering at the The Houston Area Women’s Center. She is a 2013 recipient of a “Stars on the Rise” award, a founding member of the Texas Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, an inductee of The Urban Guild, a member of the American Institute of Architects, the Texas Society of Architects, the American Society of Interior Designers, the Design Leadership Network (DLN), and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture, and Urbanism (INTBAU). She is a frequent guest critic at her alma mater, and a passionate mentor for the University of Houston’s Future Women in Architecture.
About Tony Diaz
Writer and activist Tony Diaz, El Librotraficante, is a Cultural Accelerator. He was the first Chicano to earn a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Houston Creative Writing Program. In 1998, he founded Nuestra Palabra: Latino Writers Having Their Say (NP), Houston’s first reading series for Latino authors. The group galvanized Houston’s Community Cultural Capital to become a movement for civil rights, education, and representation. When Arizona officials banned Mexican American Studies, Diaz and four veteran members of NP organized the 2012 Librotraficante Caravan to smuggle books from the banned curriculum back into Arizona. He is the author of The Aztec Love God. His book, The Tip of the Pyramid: Cultivating Community Cultural Capital, is the first in his series on Community Organizing.

Latinos in Architecture COLORES Sponsors
Information about becoming a sponsor can be found here.
Platinum Sponsor
HOK
LESCO Architectural Lighting
Page
TATEMÓ
Gold Sponsors
Allegion
cre8 Architects
Gage Architecture
Kirksey Architecture
Silver Sponsors
C.A. Walking Construction
Durotech
GSMA
MACO Construction
Martinez Architects
MATRIX Structural
MWA Architects
Perkins&Will
Powers Brown Architecture
RDLR Architects
Bronze Sponsors
Bass Construction
Daltile
DBR Engineering
DOOR Engineering
IMEG
Raba Kistner
Tarkett

COLORES
2025-10-02 17:30 - 22:00 | Kirksey Architecture, 6909 Portwest Dr, Houston, 77024, United States
COLORES, Latinos in Architecture’s sixth annual celebration of Latino culture, will take place October 1-3, 2025 at Architecture Center Houston and Kirksey Architecture, with conversations and presentations by Jesús Edmundo Robles, Jr., Assoc. AIA and Cade Manning Hayes, AIA, of DUST, AZ; Nadia Palacios Lauterbach, AIA, of Nadia Palacios architecture + interiors + landscape; Tony Diaz, El Librotraficante, Director of Nuestra Palabra: Latinos Having Their Say; Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ; a conversation and tour of the future home of the Houston Hispanic Research Center with the City of Houston, the Houston Public Library, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Brave/; Light bites by Avila Experiences; curated dinner by Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ Thursday evening ; performances by Danmar Academy of Performing Arts and a Mariachi quartet lead by Julian Corona-Medina.
Please consider becoming a sponsor of COLORES. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Latinos in Architecture scholarship program, established by the AIA Houston Latinos in Architecture Committee in 2019. More information about the scholarship program may be found here.

Thursday, October 2, 5:30pm
An evening with Jesús Edmundo Robles, Jr., Assoc. AIA and Cade Manning Hayes, AIA, of DUST, AZ and Chef Emmanuel Chavez, of TATEMÓ; performances by Danmar Academy of Performing Arts and a Mariachi quartet led by Julian Corona-Medina. Curated dinner by Chef Emmanuel Chavez from TATEMÓ and appetizers by Avila Experiences. Drinks by The Little Taco Shop and dessert by Wonder Pops.
DUST, founded in 2007, is known for its focus on sustainable design, materiality, and creating buildings that are resilient, meaningful, and integrated with their natural and cultural environments. Jesús Edmundo Robles, Jr., Assoc. AIA and Cade Manning Hayes, AIA, will share their process of designing and building work through the understanding of, respect for and sensitivity to the spirit of place.
Born in Mexico City and raised in Houston, Chef Emmanuel Chavez spent his days after school helping to run his family’s Tex-Mex restaurant. Catching the restaurant bug, in 2015, he began a series of pop-up dinners around Houston. In 2016, Chavez relocated to Seattle to work under chefs Eric Rivera (Alinea) and Derek Simcik, named to Chicago’s 30 under 30. After a 3-year stint in Seattle, he returned to Houston to open his first restaurant, Tatemó. Tatemó was named a Finalist for the 2023 James Beard Foundation Award for Best New Restaurant and that same year, Chef Chavez was named to the Best New Chef class by Food & Wine. In 2024, Chef Chavez was named a Finalist for Best Chef: Texas by the James Beard Foundation and received a 2024 Michelin star.
Kirksey Architecture
6909 Portwest Dr
Houston, TX 77024
TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE DOOR FOR THURSDAY.
Tickets for Friday’s tour can be purchased here.

About DUST
DUST is a collective of creative souls firmly grounded in the tactile, in pursuit of the intangible.
The studio explores ideas and ethics rooted in a reverent intimacy with craft and place. Ideas unfold in the creative space of intersections and find form through respect for nature, cultural histories, material, and our perceptions.
The seeds of this practice were planted in the late 1990s on the vast plains of the Llano Estacado in West Texas; the studio was born in Tucson, Arizona in 2007 as a collaboration between Cade Hayes and Jesús Robles and has grown to a team of nine, providing Architecture, Planning, and Construction services.
The work stands as both a concrete marker on the landscape, and as a frame focused on the essential, where ephemeral moments can find their place in the timeless realm of memory.
About Chef Emmanuel Cheavez
Chef Emmanuel Chavez is the visionary founder and culinary heart behind Tatemó, a Michelin‑starred tasting‑menu gem in Houston’s Spring Branch. Born in Mexico City and raised in Houston from age 10, Chavez grew up amid the rhythms of the Tex‑Mex restaurant his parents worked at — learning early how to chop, serve, and love food.
After a formative 3-year stint in Seattle, Chavez returned to Houston where he dove deep into the art of nixtamalization and respecting cultural roots, developing a passion for heirloom corn. That dedication drove him to grind 80 lbs of masa weekly, shape tortillas by hand, and build a menu where maize is both canvas and character.
Starting in Farmers Markets in 2020 and then opening a brick and mortar in early 2022, Tatemó quickly gained acclaim: National Finalist for the James Beard Best New Restaurant 2023 and Best Chef: Texas in 2024 and 2025, Food & Wine Best New Chef 2023, and a coveted Michelin star in Texas’ inaugural guide in 2024. Chef’s praise dishes like Mexico-City style fried quesadilla with caviar and Enmoladas featuring masa-tempura and mole — each plate a celebration of Mexican tradition and Texas terroir.
Chavez sees Tatemó as a cultural conversation starter—“not a Mexican restaurant, but a Houston restaurant” grounded in local Texas produce and immigrant ingenuity. His mission? Revive maize’s legacy, empower farmers, and bring artisanal corn forward—one tortilla at a time.

Latinos in Architecture COLORES Sponsors
Information about becoming a sponsor can be found here.
Platinum Sponsor
HOK
LESCO Architectural Lighting
Page
TATEMÓ
Gold Sponsors
Allegion
cre8 Architects
Gage Architecture
Kirksey Architecture
Silver Sponsors
C.A. Walking Construction
Durotech
GSMA
MACO Construction
Martinez Architects
MATRIX Structural
MWA Architects
Perkins&Will
Powers Brown Architecture
RDLR Architects
Bronze Sponsors
Bass Construction
Daltile
DBR Engineering
DOOR Engineering
IMEG
Raba Kistner
Tarkett

COLORES
2025-10-03 16:00 - 17:30 | Turkey Bend
COLORES, Latinos in Architecture’s sixth annual celebration of Latino culture, will take place October 1-3, 2025 at Architecture Center Houston and Kirksey Architecture, with conversations and presentations by Jesús Edmundo Robles, Jr., Assoc. AIA and Cade Manning Hayes, AIA, of DUST, AZ; Nadia Palacios Lauterbach, AIA, of Nadia Palacios architecture + interiors + landscape; Tony Diaz, El Librotraficante, Director of Nuestra Palabra: Latinos Having Their Say; Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ; a conversation and tour of the future home of the Houston Hispanic Research Center with the City of Houston, the Houston Public Library, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Brave/; Light bites by Avila Experiences; curated dinner by Chef Emmanuel Chavez of TATEMÓ Thursday evening ; performances by Danmar Academy of Performing Arts and a Mariachi quartet lead by Julian Corona-Medina.
Please consider becoming a sponsor of COLORES. A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to Architecture Center Houston’s Latinos in Architecture scholarship program, established by the AIA Houston Latinos in Architecture Committee in 2019. More information about the scholarship program may be found here.

Friday, October 3, 4pm
A conversation and tour of the future home of the Hispanic History Research Center with the City of Houston, the Houston Public Library, Buffalo Bayou Partnership, and Brave/.
The Hispanic History Research Center, which will be located in the Turkey Bend area, focuses on the history and cultural contributions of Houston’s Hispanic community, offering a wealth of resources and materials that celebrate the diverse heritage of Hispanic Texans.
Materials range in date from 1703 to the present, with the bulk of the material covering the 1920s through the 1980s, including historical documents, photographs, cultural artifacts, and oral histories. The center will provide valuable insights into the region’s rich Hispanic roots. It will become a cornerstone for research on Hispanic history and will continue the mission of making diverse historical narratives accessible to all.
The event has been approved for 1 LU

About Turkey Bend (Part of Buffalo Bayou East Master Plan)
Turkey Bend is situated at the only location where Buffalo Bayou meets Navigation Boulevard, a main thoroughfare for the East End. The site’s former industrial structures, including warehouses, an expansive wooden wharf, and gantry crane, will be reimagined and repurposed as a central hub for East End and Fifth Ward community activities, events, and culture.

The warehouse on Navigation Boulevard is being renovated to host community events in the near-term and, in the long-term, retail space for local businesses and the Houston Public Library’s Hispanic History Research Center. An open plaza will connect to the waterfront through a unique art tunnel.
The site’s historic wharf will be transformed into an inviting waterfront park for gathering, performances, and events.
Due to its location on a protected oxbow, Turkey Bend will also become the boating hub of Buffalo Bayou East with safe access for canoeing, kayaking, and pontoon boat tours.
Navigation Boulevard will be realigned to allow for safe pedestrian and bicycle connections.

Latinos in Architecture COLORES Sponsors
Information about becoming a sponsor can be found here.
Platinum Sponsor
HOK
LESCO Architectural Lighting
Page
TATEMÓ
Gold Sponsors
Allegion
cre8 Architects
Gage Architecture
Kirksey Architecture
Silver Sponsors
C.A. Walking Construction
Durotech
GSMA
MACO Construction
Martinez Architects
MATRIX Structural
MWA Architects
Perkins&Will
Powers Brown Architecture
RDLR Architects
Bronze Sponsors
Bass Construction
Daltile
DBR Engineering
DOOR Engineering
IMEG
Raba Kistner
Tarkett

Rice Civic Forum, In Motion: Downtown Streets, Stories, and People
2025-10-04 13:00 - 16:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Free and open to the public.

Rice School of Architecture invites you to the 2025 Rice Civic Forum, In Motion: Downtown Streets, Stories, and People, convened by Professor in the Practice Amna Ansari and co-organized with AIA Houston. This year’s forum turns its focus to downtown Houston, a district amid a remarkable transformation—from a traditional business core to a dynamic, mixed-use urban center that reflects the city’s broader growth and diversification.
Once defined primarily by office towers and a 9-to-5 workforce, downtown is now a 24/7 destination marked by residential growth, cultural vibrancy, public green spaces, and a steadily diversifying economy—even amid the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past two decades, strategic investments have reshaped the area: the expansion of METRORail, the ecological restoration of Buffalo Bayou, the development of Avenida Houston, new residential and hospitality projects, and increased investment in parks and public spaces. Together, these changes have brought new energy, attracting residents, entrepreneurs, artists, and visitors to a redefined urban core.
Looking ahead, downtown Houston is positioned to lead the city into its next chapter. Key questions frame this year’s discussion: How can downtown serve as a model for a livable district and inclusive growth, connecting with the historic wards at its edges? What role will housing, transit, schools, healthcare, public-private partnerships, and cultural innovation play in shaping its future? As we plan for the decades to come, downtown will remain both a testing ground and a beacon for Houston’s ambitions.
Introduced by Amna Ansari — Rice School of Architecture and UltraBarrio
Co-moderated by Michael Robinson — Principal at SWA
Speakers:

Mandi Chapa — Rice Lecturer, Planner and Project Manager at Huitt-Zollars
Sarai Osorio — Principal Planner
Cassie Hoeprich — Director of Planning and Economic Development at Downtown Houston+
Yair Titelboim — Data Scientist – Global Digital Strategy at Hines

This program is made possible through the generous support of the Betty R. and George F. Pierce Jr., FAIA, Fund; the William B. Coleman Jr. Colloquium Fund for Architecture; and the Wm. W. Caudill Lecture Series Fund.
About the Rice Civic Forum
Launched in 1973, the Rice Civic Forum brings together architects, designers, scholars, policymakers, and community members to explore the civic dimensions of architecture and urban design. Each year, the forum focuses on a specific neighborhood, site, or theme in Houston, using the city’s unique conditions as a lens to engage broader conversations about equity, resilience, and the public realm. Through on-site dialogue and public programs, the forum seeks to amplify local voices, share diverse perspectives, and imagine new possibilities for the city’s future.

Towers & Trees Walking Tour
2025-10-11 09:00 - 11:00 | One Shell Plaza, 910 Smith Street, Houston, 77027, United States
Towers and Trees explores the magnificent architecture between Hermann Square and Discovery Green as well as the changing dynamics of our downtown. We’ll look at the partially realized civic center plan surrounding Hermann Square, the historic backbone of Main Street, the ambitious 1970 proposal that would become Houston Center, the internationally recognized icons from the skyscraper boom of the 70’s and 80’s, and Discovery Green, the newest catalyst for downtown development in Houston.
Meet outside One Shell Plaza at 910 Smith Street on the corner of Walker and Smith Street across the street from City Hall and the reflecting pool in Hermann Square. Garage and street parking available in the area.
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.

THIS TOUR IS SOLD OUT. Please visit our events calendar for upcoming tours.

Home Tour 2025
2025-10-18 - 2025-10-19
The AIA Houston home tour is a 2-day, self-guided tour featuring custom homes in the Houston area designed by licensed architects.
We seek to show the best new residential architecture by AIA members and we’re looking for a variety of architectural styles, including new construction, renovations, and additions.
Discounted tickets are available until October 17th. Prices will increase the weekend of the tour. Tickets purchased online may be picked up at any one of the featured homes on the days of the tour. Additionally, Full-Tour and Single Home Tickets may be purchased at any of the featured homes on the days of the tour.
This is a rain or shine event. All sales are final.
Click here to see the homes!
Event Details & Cost:

HOME TOUR DATES
October 18-19, 2025
12:00PM – 6:00PM (Last entry 5:45PM)

TICKET PRICES
$35.00 Full-Tour Advance Ticket
$40.00 on weekend of tour

$30.00 – Full-Tour Advance Ticket for Bike Riders;

$25.00 – Full-Tour Ticket for Children 12 and under

$10.00 – Single-House Ticket
Single-House Tickets are not available for pre-sale

Houston Zoo Jack’s Café and Colonnade Restoration
2025-10-22 15:00 - 16:30 | Houston Zoo, 6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
Photo Credit: Houston Zoo

This tour will highlight the final piece of the Zoo’s centennial master plan – the transformation of the front of the Houston Zoo through the recently opened Jack’s Café and Reflections event center and restoration of the Zoo’s historic reflection pool and colonnade. Learn about the sustainable design and operations features of Jack’s Café and Reflections event center, including a low-carbon mass timber structure, 18,000-gallon rainwater harvesting system, composting of food waste, and bird-friendly glass. Hear about the design and construction challenges of restoring the Zoo’s iconic reflection pool and colonnade to its original midcentury aesthetic while improving utility infrastructure.
Tour Guides:

Colley Hodges, AIA, LEED AP, WELL AP, SITES AP, Houston Zoo Sustainability Director
Mark Hoffman, P.E., LEED Green Associate, Houston Zoo Senior Director of Planning, Design, and Engineering
Gretchen Foust, P.E., Houston Zoo Project Manager
David Bucek, FAIA, LEED AP, Principal at Stern and Bucek Architects
Sunnie Diaz, AIA, LEED AP, Senior Associate at Lake Flato Architects

AIA Credit: 1.5 HSW

Nuestro Ambiente
2025-10-24 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 Nuestro Ambiente: Latinos Shaping Houston presented by the Latinos in Architecture Committee opening Friday, October 24, 5:30-7:30pm, and continuing through January 30, 2026.
Ambiente is where place becomes feeling. Here, belonging takes shape—in the buildings and places where we bring our spirit. It’s where community gathers, celebrates, remembers, and creates. This is where culture is lived, not just observed.
At a time when Latino identity and communities are under increasing pressure, Nuestro Ambiente honors the legacy of Latino contributions to Houston’s cultural and built environment—while raising the urgent question about the future of ambiente without a stable, legally-protected, Latino workforce.
The story of Nuestro Ambiente begins in Los Barrios, Houston’s historic neighborhoods: Second Ward (Segundo Barrio), Magnolia Park (Little Mexico), Gulfton (Houston’s Ellis Island), and Near Northside. Through graphics, displays, and sound, experience these communities’ food, music, and art that create Houston’s most authentic ambiente.
The exhibit identifies Gente de Ambiente, community leaders, architects, engineers, builders and their contributions to Houston’s cultural and built environment. Through stories of resilience and creativity, we learn how generations of Latinos have forged lasting paths to success.
The exhibition is a celebration of the individual, our communities, spaces, and passion that define Nuestro Ambiente. It is Nuestro Ambiente that enriches and influences Houston’s ambiente!
Event is free and open to the community.

Nuestro Ambiente is sponsored and supported by Ayala Vargas Photography, infraTECH, Martinez Architects, MAREK, Page now Stantec, RDLR, DBR, Wilson and Catherine Maxey and Daniel Ortiz, AIA.
Programming Partners
The Houston Public Library

Ambiente es donde el lugar se convierte en sentimiento. Aquí, el sentido de pertenencia toma forma—en los edificios y espacios a los que llevamos nuestra esencia. Es en donde la comunidad se reúne, celebra, recuerda y crea. Aquí la cultura se vive, no solo se contempla.
Nuestro Ambiente honra el legado latino presente en el entorno cultural y físico de Houston, en un momento en que la comunidad e identidad latinas enfrentan una creciente presión. Esta presión plantea interrogantes sobre el futuro del ambiente, sin una fuerza laboral latina estable y legalmente protegida.
La historia de Nuestro Ambiente comienza en Los Barrios, los vecindarios históricos de Houston: Second Ward (Segundo Barrio), Magnolia Park (Little Mexico), Gulfton (la “Ellis Island” de Houston) y Near Northside. A través de gráficas, exposiciones y sonidos, se vive la comida, la música y el arte de estas comunidades que dan forma al ambiente más auténtico de Houston.
La exhibición reconoce a la Gente de Ambiente: líderes comunitarios, arquitectos, ingenieros, constructores y sus contribuciones al entorno cultural y al entorno de desarrollo de Houston. A través de historias de superación y creatividad, aprendemos como generaciones de latinos han forjado caminos perdurables hacia el éxito.
Esta exposición es una celebración de los individuos, de nuestras comunidades, de los espacios y de la pasión que definen Nuestro Ambiente. Es Nuestro Ambiente el que enriquece e influye el ambiente de Houston.

Texas Medical Center Walking Tour
2025-10-25 09:00 - 11:00 | John P. McGovern Commons Building, 6550 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030
The Texas Medical Center is the largest medical center in the world. Equivalent to the 8th largest business district in the United States, TMC has over 50 million square feet of patient care, education, and research space. 160,000+ individuals visit the Texas Medical Center each day with more than 6 million patients treated annually. The 1000+ acres is approximately the size of Chicago inside the “Loop” with over 160 buildings on the main campus alone. Join our ArCH docents on this introductory architectural tour of Houston’s own modern marvel of medicine. Sites on our tour will include Baylor College of Medicine, the new Texas Children’s Hospital Maternity Center, MD Anderson Cancer Center and Methodist Research Center.
Meet in the ground floor lobby of the John P McGovern Commons Building, 6550 Bertner Ave, 77030. Texas Medical Center Entrance 4 and $13 parking available in the TMC Commons parking garage.
AIA Credit: 2.0 LU
Course Number: TMCWT1
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.

ARE Study Group - All Sections
2025-10-27 18:00 - 19:30 | dlr group, 1000 Louisiana St Suite 1100, Houston, TX, 77002
Time: 6PM
Location: DLR Group, 1000 Louisiana St Suite 1100, Houston, TX 77002
Join us for this year’s final ARE Study Group session to build your momentum in studying for the ARE. Bring your questions, your notes, your laptops, and your favorite personal study materials to compare with colleagues!
We will go over all sections of the exam. 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 DLR Group. Light bites and drinks will be provided.
See you there soon!

UH Art & Architecture Walking Tour
2025-11-01 09:00 - 11:00 | University of Houston – Moores School of Music Building, 333 Cullen Blvd, Houston, TX, 77004, United States
An exploration of art, architecture and campus design on the University of Houston’s main campus. Works by Frank Stella, Jim Love, William King and The Art Guys are found within the context of a campus and buildings designed by notable architects such as Philip Johnson, Alfred C. Finn, Gensler, Lake|Flato, BNIM and Cesar Pelli.
Tour will meet in the courtyard in front of the Moores School of Music by the Winged Woman sculpture. Parking available in adjacent campus visitor’s lot or parking garage. Parking fees not included in tour registration.
AIA Credit: 2.0 LU
Course Number: UHWT2022
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.

Annual Meeting
2025-11-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce St., Houston, TX, 77002, United States
The AIA Houston Annual Meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at Architecture Center Houston, 902 Commerce, Houston, TX 77002 from 6 PM to 8 PM. This special evening brings our community together to celebrate the members, committees, and partners who make our chapter thrive. It is also a time to reflect on the successes of the past year while looking ahead to the future of AIA Houston.
This year, 4 Presidential Citations will be presented in recognition of individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to AIA Houston and the architectural profession. These awards highlight the exemplary leadership, service, and commitment that strengthen our chapter and advance the mission of AIA Houston.

2026 AIA Houston Board of Directors:
The AIA Houston Board of Directors is made up of members like you—dedicated professionals who strive to ensure that AIA Houston continues to be a powerful resource for architects in our region. Join us for an important evening as we elect AIA Houston’s 2026 Board of Directors and celebrate the members who make our chapter strong.
President: Bayardo Selva, AIA
President-elect: Chudi Abajue, AIA
Treasurer: Laura Carrera, AIA
Secretary: Marissa Yu, AIA
TxA Director: Caveh Masum, AIA
Director: Nicholas Banks, AIA
Director: Kristin Schuster, AIA
Public Director: Stephanie Foster
City of Houston Director: Fallon Barrett, Assoc. AIA

We hope you will join us for this important chapter tradition as we honor the contributions of our members and look forward to another impactful year.
This event is free and open to all.
TxA President-elect Krystyn Haecker, AIA, will also join us to talk about what TxA has in store for 2026.

It Takes A Village Commons
2025-11-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Doshi House, 3419 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX, 77004, United States
Building a village starts with connection. Join the AIA Houston Women in Architecture and Houston NOMA for It Takes a Village Commons; a meet up for parents, caregivers, and community members to gather, share and support one another.
Inspired by the idea of “the Commons”, the shared cultural and natural spaces where stories are exchanged, challenges are voiced, and relationships are built, this gathering offers space to connect over life, work, and caregiving.
Come meet fellow caregivers, talk honestly about the juggle of career and care, and help build our Village.
