Events Reminder - March 24, 2026 

Potomac Valley Events

Designing and Building with Single Skin Metal Wall Panels

April 7, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Explore the history of single skin metal wall panels and their advancements into modern day architectural wall cladding systems. Design professionals will learn the advantages of building with eco-conscious practices and how they can help to reduce the construction industry’s environmental footprint. The course will explain the advantages of building with wall systems that provide performance and sustainability as well as how modern paint finishes will protect and enhance a structure. The course will round out with a look into the importance of proper detailing and assemblies with a focus on how incorrect design and construction can lead to structural damage, mildew and mold issues, and the impact these conditions can have on building’s inhabitants.

CRAN: From Site to Finish: Integrated Design and Construction in Custom Residential Architecture

April 10, 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Arlington, VA | Submitted for AIA CES Approval | REGISTER

Join architect Richard Leggin, AIA, landscape architect Guy Williams, and builder John Thorsen for a behind-the-scenes guided tour of a custom home nearing completion. Explore how integrated design, material selection, and craftsmanship combine to achieve exceptional residential quality and performance. The program will cover site design, stormwater management, waterproofing, and detailing strategies that enhance both sustainability and durability while showcasing the collaborative process behind high-end residential architecture.

Full details >>

Event and lunch sponsored by:

Organized by AIA PV and the Capital Area CRAN (Custom Residential Architects Network, an AIA Knowledge Community), a tri-chapter committee founded jointly by AIA DC, AIA Northern Virginia and AIA Potomac Valley.

THANKS TO OUR PV CRAN ANNUAL SPONSORS!

Home Grown: A Residential Architecture Mentorship Series

April 30, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Rockville, MD | Submitted for AIA CES Approval | REGISTER

Organized by the AIA Potomac Valley Custom Residential Architecture Network (CRAN) committee. Hosted by American Cedar & Millwork.

Looking to grow your career in residential architecture? Join us for an engaging "speed" mentorship experience designed to connect emerging professionals with seasoned practitioners through fast-paced, meaningful conversations.

This interactive session, held at American Cedar & Millwork’s new Rockville, MD showroom, dives into the realities of custom residential practice—exploring career pathways, practice management, and the power of collaboration in delivering thoughtful, high-quality homes.

Gain insights on:

     •   Navigating licensure and career development
     •   Integrating healthy, sustainable materials
     •   Advancing energy-efficient and high-performance design
     •   Advocating for the value of architects in shaping resilient communities

The program will begin with an open networking session—giving you the chance to build relationships, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network.

Whether you're an emerging professional or simply curious about residential practice, this is a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and grow.

(NOTE: Are you a seasoned residential professional interested in sharing your expertise? Please email Mary-Margaret Stacy to volunteer as a mentor for this event.)

THANKS TO OUR PV CRAN ANNUAL SPONSORS!

WAYFINDING FLOORING STRATEGIES

May 5, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

This presentation will explore the answer to the questions: How do individuals navigate a space? How does wayfinding contribute to a facility’s success? How can wayfinding communicate spatial definition and function? Discuss the value of implementing sound wayfinding strategies into a space. Discuss the impact of color, texture, and materials on wayfinding success, as well as how wayfinding will be affected in the post-COVID Era.

AIAPV/PVAF 2026 GOLF OUTING: EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS OPEN—RESERVE YOUR SPOT!

Friday, May 29
College Park, MD | REGISTER

AIA Potomac Valley (AIAPV) and the Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation (PVAF) will hold our annual golf outing on Friday, May 29th at the University of Maryland Golf Course in College Park—join us!

Early Bird Tickets: $225
(Save $25 per golfer registration)

EARLY BIRD TICKETS AVAILABLE THROUGH FRIDAY, APRIL 24

This event is our primary fundraiser to support PVAF’s scholarships for architecture education and AIAPV’s Emerging Professional Awards Program (EPAP). Register as a golfer or sign up as a sponsor now!

REVIEW AVAILABLE SPONSORSHIPS

NOT A GOLFER? Another great way to participate and support this fundraiser is through donations of goods or cash for this year’s silent auction—all contributions will help us meet our fundraising goal. Further details will be provided soon. Attendance at the outing is not required.

Alternatively, you can also simply join us for a day of enjoyment on the course! You can participate by choosing the 'Lunch Only' option, which allows you to be a spectator, cheer for the golfers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Afterward, you are invited to join us for lunch, participate in the 50/50 raffle, explore and bid in the silent auction, and take part in the AIAPV President's Putting Competition.

We invite you to plan now to come out to support a great cause and enjoy a day of fun and networking with firm principals and industry leaders in the Metro design and construction industry!

AIA Potomac Valley Committee Meetings – Join Us!

Apr 8 | Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Committee (Virtual) 1:00 PM
Apr 10 | Committee on the Environment (COTE) (Virtual) 11:00 AM
Apr 15 | Emerging Professionals Committee (Virtual) 6:30 PM

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Events, Education & Opportunities

AZIZA CHAOUNI: "Designing with Scarcity in Africa"

April 8, 4:00 – 5:20 PM
College Park, MD | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

AIA Potomac Valley is pleased to support the Craig and Mimi Spangler Lecture (part of the University of Maryland School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation's Spring 2026 Architecture Lecture series).

This lecture explores how scarcity—of materials, infrastructure, energy, and capital—can become a generative force for architectural innovation in Africa. Drawing on built work, research, and post-crisis interventions across the continent, Prof. Aziza Chaouni reframes constraint as a catalyst for climate-responsive design, social equity, and cultural continuity. The talk examines low-carbon construction, bio-sourced materials, adaptive reuse, and participatory processes that leverage local knowledge and crafts. Rather than importing extractive models, the lecture argues for context-driven design methodologies that transform scarcity into resilience, affordability, and long-term environmental stewardship.

Architects and AIA members that attend this event in person will be eligible for 1 LU|HSW Learning Unit, provided by AIA Potomac Valley.

ARE^® PREP SERIES – PROGRAMMING & ANALYSIS

April 11, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Virtual | 5 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Organized by AIA Northern Virginia

Prepare for the Programming and Analysis section of the Architect Registration Examination 5.0 (ARE 5.0) with our insightful course! This division is a crucial part of ARE 5.0, and our program is tailored to guide you through project type analysis, establishing project requirements, evaluating project sites, and understanding economic issues. Join us for a practical exploration that enhances your skills and knowledge in preparation for the examination.

Learn more about the 2026 ARE^® Prep Series and view the full series schedule.

ARCHITECTURE WEEK 2026: VIRTUAL READ-ALOUDS
April 12 – 18, 2026

It’s never too early to start thinking like an architect! Architecture Week is a nationwide celebration recognizing the power of good design, with a goal of inspiring hopeful architecture and design professionals and K-12 students.  

Gather your students and join architecture and design children's book authors throughout Architecture Week for a virtual read-aloud followed by Q&A. These sessions are designed to be easy, turn-key opportunities for engaging with schools, libraries, and community groups. The stories spotlight architecture and design, sparking creativity and curiosity about the built environment.

Browse 15 read-aloud options for grades K-12 HERE and click the book images to register for your favorite session(s). Groups are welcome.

PASSIVE HOUSE DC CHAPTER MEETING

April 16, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Virtual | REGISTER

Attend and network with others working to transform the building industry across the US. Get the latest, regional, national and international Passive House news. Hear reports on ongoing efforts and help brainstorm new ones. Please invite friends or colleagues who may be interested. Zoom link is provided with registration.

Passive House Washington DC is part of The Passive House Network, in affiliation with the International Passive House Association, and the Passive House Institute. Questions welcome: [email protected]

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