AIA UK
The First International Chapter of the American Institute of Architect
The American Institute of Architects has been a professional society of architects for over 150 years. The AIA, representing more than 80,000 members, is the most influential voice for the architectural community in the United States, and through its growing number of International Chapters and members is gaining influence throughout the global architectural community.
In 1990, a group of American architects living and working in the United Kingdom came together to establish a local chapter in London. What began primarily as a social vehicle soon grew into something much more. In 1992, AIA UK officially became the first international chapter of the AIA, leading the way for the formal recognition of other international chapters in Continental Europe and Asia.
The AIA UK Chapter headquartered in the former residence of Benjamin Franklin in London has over 180 members throughout the country. We have continued a dialogue with the Royal Institute of British Architects and work jointly with its members to promote architecture and the architectural profession. Many of our members are also members of the RIBA.
Each year, the AIA UK Chapter initiates a variety of programs that provide continuing education units, required for most US and UK registered architects. These include lectures and presentations by manufacturers and specialty consultants, open house evenings at member firms and panel discussions on practice issues such as UK planning and building law; enjoying a stimulating site visit and lecture in the company of friends and colleagues.
Four among our annual events deserve special notice:
- The Annual AIA UK Design Awards: open to both professionals and students in a brood range of categories. It is a hallmark of our commitment to excellence in design and impartiality. For details of the programme, please contact the Chapter Executive at .
- The Annual AIA UK Student Design Charrette: held each Autumn invites students from throughout the UK to form teams with AIA architects to address an eight hour design problem. The student results are then subjected to a jury of leading architects and architectural critics — a rewarding experience for all involved.
- The AIA UK Keynote Lecture bringing to London a speaker of international reputation within the architectural profession.
- The Founding Lecture Series initiated originally to commemorate the AIA’s 150th anniversary. In 2008 the series consists of a Spring and Autumn session held at the Architectural Association in London.
