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. This year the AIA is celebrating the 150th year of its founding and the 100th year of the AIA Gold Medal Award. The AIA, representing more than 78,000 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 175 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.
Three among our annual events deserve special notice:
- The Annual AIA/UK Design Awards: open to both professionals and students in a brood range of catergories. 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: this year to mark both thecelebration of the 150th year of founding and 100th year of the AIA Gold Medal Award we have most recent Gold Medal award winner Antoine Predock, speaking at the RIBA on May 15th.
If you would like any additional general information on the American Institute of Architects - or you are interested in joining us - please contact our Chapter Executive by fax or email: +44 (0) 20 7930 9124, .
