We welcome these new, returning and transferring Members!
Kristin Greene, Assoc. AIA
John Li, AIA
Emmanuel Okyere, Assoc. AIA
Robert Rivera, Assoc. AIA
Dante Sanders, Assoc. AIA
Jeannette Senn, AIA
Not a member? Join the largest, most influential network of architects and design professionals. AIA’s member community shares your passion for design, a desire to change the world, and a commitment to the highest standards of practice. Sign up today!
Current member? Renew your membership today!
Have you moved or changed jobs? Update your contact information with AIA.
sponsorship
DONATE TO PVAF
Support the work of the Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation with a tax-deductible donation!
AIAPV COMMITMENT
AIAPV strongly denounces acts of violence, especially the disproportionate violence inflicted upon people of color, and states unequivocally that Black Lives Matter. We fully support and share the AIA’s efforts to champion equity, diversity, and inclusion, not only in the profession of architecture, but also in our communities and the world at large.
—AIA Potomac Valley Board of Directors
AIA Components that successfully complete the accreditation process receive Nationally Accredited status for a three-year period and earn the right to be identified as a “Nationally Accredited Component” of AIA. AIA Potomac Valley is proud to be counted among AIA's accredited components for 2026 – 2028.
OUR MISSION
To provide leadership, communication, education, and advocacy in support of Architects and their constituencies in the Potomac Valley region.
April 1, 2026
Chapter News
AIAPV/PVAF 2026 GOLF OUTING: SWING INTO ACTION FOR A GREAT CAUSE!
Support the Future of Architecture
The Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation is dedicated to shaping the next generation of architects, emerging professionals, and students—and we need your help to keep that momentum going strong!
Our Annual Golf Outing isn’t just a day on the course—it’s our biggest fundraiser of the year, powering scholarships, programs, and opportunities that make a lasting impact.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
Play Your Part
Register as a single, twosome, or foursome—bring colleagues, clients, friends, or come solo and make new connections!
Become a Sponsor
Gain visibility while supporting a meaningful cause. Opportunities are available for every budget.
Advertise Your Brand
Showcase your business in our Digital Brochure, reaching 2,000+ industry professionals.
Donate to our Silent Auction
Contribute an item or experience to help us raise even more for the Foundation.
READY TO SIGN UP?
- Golf Registration: AIAPV/PVAF 2026 Golf Outing Registration
- Sponsorships & Advertising: Available here. (PDF Flyer)
- Silent Auction Donations: Learn how to contribute here.
QUESTIONS?
David Iams – 410.212.2945 | [email protected]
Ted Kelly – 301.793.7122 | [email protected]
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Join us on the green and help build the future of architecture—one swing at a time!
Click here for details on advertising in Potomac Valley Architect
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.
ASK ME ANYTHING WITH MARC FEINSTEIN, AIA
April 16, 7:00 – 8:00 PM
Virtual | REGISTER
Presented by the AIA Potomac Valley Emerging Professionals Committee
Join us for AIA Potomac Valley's “Ask Me Anything,” a FREE virtual Q&A event where you have the unique opportunity to engage directly with a seasoned architect. Structured like office hours, participants can join the Zoom link to chat with an architect. Want to know more about a certain type of architecture, or maybe you need help preparing for an interview and have a question about your portfolio? Whether you’re an aspiring architect, a professional in the field, or simply someone with a keen interest in architecture, this session is designed for you!
CRAN: From Site to Finish: Integrated Design and Construction in Custom Residential Architecture
Rescheduled - Now Friday, April 17, 1:00 – 2:30 PM
Arlington, VA | 1 LU/HSW | 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.
Seating is Limited.
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!
Selecting Resinous Flooring and Walls for Design and Performance
April 22, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER
This presentation introduces the attendee to the category of resinous flooring and provides an introduction to the three primary chemistries in resinous flooring, individual systems and applications. Substrate preparation and installation techniques are discussed.
Home Grown: A Residential Architecture Mentorship Series
April 30, 6:30 – 8:00 PM
Rockville, MD | 1 LU | 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: Design Movement, Clarity and Confidence
May 5, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER
Discover how wayfinding shapes movement and experience in any space, with flooring as a powerful design tool. Participants will learn how color, pattern, texture, and material transitions can guide movement, enhance accessibility, and support user confidence while meeting WELL v2 and LEED v5 standards. Real-world examples and human-centered insights provide strategies for designing spaces that are intuitive, engaging, and supportive of occupants.
AIAPV/PVAF 2026 GOLF OUTING: EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS OPEN—RESERVE YOUR SPOT!
May 29, 7:30 – 3:00 PM
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 thru Friday, April 24: $225
(Save $25 per golfer registration)
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!
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
Advocacy
AIA MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE UPDAte
The Maryland General Assembly has entered the final phase of the 2026 legislative session. With crossover complete, legislation is now moving through the opposite chamber for final consideration, and budget negotiations are underway. AIA Maryland continues to advocate for policies that protect architectural licensure, strengthen permitting processes, and support the built environment across the state.
Read the latest update:
April 1, 2026 Legislative Update
Stay informed through AIAMD’s Legislative Tracking List.
Featured Project
The Braystone
Winstanley Architects & Planners
Alexandria, VA
Our celebration of AIAPV’s 2025 Excellence in Design Award winners continues with The Braystone, an adaptive reuse preservation project in Alexandria, VA, by Winstanley Architects & Planners. Drawing inspiration from the site’s industrial heritage, the design adds contemporary density while respecting the scale and character of its historic surroundings. The project received a Merit Award from the jury.
Above Image: King Street Facade. Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
(l to r) Marc Feinstein, AIA (2025 AIAPV President) with Michael Winstanley, AIA, George Eisenberger, AIA, and Leejung Hong—Winstanley Architects & Planners
Photo: ©2025 Montgomery Planning
Located at the western edge of Old Town Alexandria’s historic core, The Braystone at 1300 King Street weaves preservation and innovation into a unified urban response. The project reactivates a prominent corner through the restoration of two 19th-century masonry storefronts and the introduction of a four-story, 55,000-square-foot mixed-use building with 32 condominium residences above retail. Inspired by the site’s industrial past, the design introduces new density while honoring the scale and texture of its historic context.
View looking east. Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
Central to the project is the sensitive restoration of two early 1800s Federal-style commercial structures. Once fragmented by surface parking and mid-century additions, these historic buildings now serve as architectural anchors. Their rehabilitated façades—defined by brickwork, punched openings, and traditional storefront proportions—reinforce Old Town’s scale and continuity, providing a grounded base for the new building to engage with the surrounding streetscape.
Tracery detail. Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
Streetscape. Photo: Anice Hoachlander Photography
JURY: “A masterful adaptive reuse of an industrial building, blending modern extensions with the original steel and brick structure. This project celebrates the building's history, contextualizing modern storytelling and ensuring its lasting relevance.”
Member News
5 Classroom-ready book and activity pairings for school visits
By Lori Apfel Cardeli, AIA, NCARB
How do we explain our work to children in a way that is meaningful and accessible—without turning the visit into a lecture?
The first two articles of this series explored why children’s books are such powerful tools for architecture outreach and highlighted the authors shaping this growing movement. This final installment focuses on how to actually conduct outreach, focusing on five classroom-ready book and activity pairings architects can use for school visits, career days, Architecture Week, or STEM/STEAM programming.
Lori Apfel Cardeli is the principal of LACArch, a residential architecture practice based in Bethesda, MD. She is the Maryland state representative for AIA’s Small Firm Exchange and is deeply engaged in K–12 architecture education through school visits, book drives, and her ongoing project, LACArch’s Little Book Club (@LACArchLittleBookClub).
Partner Content
CASE STUDY: REPAIRING A 3-YEAR OLD POOL
By Matt Bell | Ernest Maier
Problems at the New Pool
M-NCPPC’S South Regional Aquatic Wellness Center was constructed in 2021 and immediately started having issues with corrosion and discolored water from rusting steel reinforcement in the wall and coping. In 2024, Tobar Construction was contracted to remove and replace the corroded steel and problematic concrete.
The Fix: Corrosion-Free Fiberglass Rebar
Corrosion-free fiberglass rebar from MST Bar was chosen to ensure that this issue did not appear ever again—fiberglass has a 100+ year lifetime. Installing fiberglass rebar was the same as steel, but quicker. Fiberglass is faster to cut, lighter, and pliable, meaning the crews were quickly able to complete the curvy coping shapes. Placement went so quickly that it was a full day ahead of schedule. The corrosion-free material also meant the repair could be shallower (0.75” vs 1.50”), preserving more of the existing concrete.
A Successful Install, Let’s Do it Again
Tobar Construction sourced fiberglass reinforcement materials from Ernest Maier, a local supplier, to support the concrete repair project. The materials were available from Ernest Maier's existing inventory, which allowed for timely procurement and the cost of the fiberglass reinforcement was lower than comparable black steel options.
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: AIAS AND ACE MENTOR'S VIRTUAL SERIES
April 13 – 18, 2026
Know an educator or student interested in learning more about what it takes to become an architect? Let them know about AIAS and ACE Mentor's FREE virtual series during Architecture Week. Students and parents welcome. REGISTER
Monday, April 13 | 7:00 – 8:15PM ET
What Does an Architect Actually Do?
Tuesday, April 14 | 7:00 – 8:30PM ET
Applying to Architecture School: Portfolios, Costs & Finding the Right Fit
Thursday, April 16 | 7:00 – 8:15PM ET
Beyond the Studio: Career Paths in Architecture & the Built Environment
Saturday, April 18 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM ET
Parent Coffee Hour: The Architecture Education & Career Journey
THE AIA 2030 COMMITMENT: PARTICIPATING AS A SMALL FIRM
April 14, 12:00 – 1:30 PM
Virtual | 1.5 LU/HSW | REGISTER
Join AIA National, AIA New Jersey COTE, and AIA New Jersey Small Firm Exchange to learn practical strategies, resources, and workflows that small firms can adopt to simplify reporting.
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]
MARYLAND DAY 2026
April 25, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
College Park, MD | Free Admission & Parking
Join UMD on Saturday, April 25 for the University of Maryland's annual springtime open house! Join us both in the Architecture Building and on McKeldin Mall for activities and giveaways, including the Architecture Model Museum, Box City, preservation digs and more!
35th Annual Affordable Housing Summit
May 15, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Rockville, MD | REGISTER
The Affordable Housing Conference of Montgomery County (AHCMC)—a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization—believes that affordable, decent, and safe housing is an inalienable right, and not a privilege, for every American.
This year's summit promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience where industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators come together to discuss the latest trends and challenges in housing. Get ready for insightful panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities that will inspire and empower you. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and shape the future of affordable housing.
AIA TOWN HALL
May 15, 3:00 PM
Virtual | REGISTER
Join your colleagues from around the country for AIA National's member-wide virtual Town Hall on May 15 at 3pm ET.
ECONOMIC UPDATE Q2 2026 ABI INSIGHTS
May 22, 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Virtual | 1 LU | REGISTER
Join AIA Chief Economist Richard Branch and AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer, Carole Wedge, FAIA, for a quarterly conversation about the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI). Get ahead of emerging challenges and opportunities and inform your strategic planning with key insights into the industry’s latest economic data and trends.
From AIA
ABI FEBRUARY 2026: BUSINESS CONDITIONS AT ARCHITECTURE FIRMS MAY STABILIZE SOON
After several months of softness, architecture firm billings were close to flat in February. The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index® (ABI) score for the month was 49.4, meaning that the share of firms reporting that billing declined was only slightly greater than the share of firms reporting that billings increased (a score of 50 would mean that those shares were equal).
INTRODUCING THE AIA COLLEGE OF FELLOWS CLASS OF 2026
A special edition of the AIA College of Fellows newsletter is now available—featuring the 2026 class of Fellows, along with information on the jury, submission statistics and breakdown by objective, and an overview of the program.
Calls, Competitions & Deadlines
THE U40 LIST: AIA/AAH LIST OF HEALTH CARE DESIGN’S BEST UNDER 40
Submission Deadline: April 3, 2026
Members under age 40 may wish to apply for the U40 List, an award to celebrate individuals making a significant contribution to the advancement of health facilities design. Each year up to two individuals are selected for this list. Recipients also receive complimentary registration and travel expense stipend for the 2026 AIA AAH/ACHA Summer Leadership Summit July 17–19 in Minneapolis.
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: 2025–2026 TUTTLE & GMZ FELLOWSHIPS
Submission Deadline: April 6, 2026
The AIA Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH) and the Foundation for Health Environments Research (FHER) provide fellowship opportunities in health facility planning and design. The Tuttle Fellowship supports graduate students, while the GMZ Fellowship supports doctoral and master’s students, junior faculty, and emerging professionals. LEARN MORE
AIA MARYLAND FUTURE FORWARD CONFERENCE: CALL FOR SPEAKERS
Application Deadline: April 10, 2026
AIA Maryland invites architects, designers, planners, industry partners, and thought leaders to submit session proposals for the Future Forward Conference and related programming. Future Forward is a bold, forward-looking convening focused on what’s next for architecture, practice, leadership, and the built environment. LEARN MORE & APPLY
2026 AIA FUTURE FORWARD GRANT
Submission Deadline: April 17, 2026
A project presented by the Large Firm Roundtable (LFRT) and the AIA Young Architects Forum (YAF), this grant supports students, emerging professionals, and early career architects in the testing of new ideas that disrupt the traditional conception of practice, process, and product in the field of architecture. The primary objective of the grant is to perpetuate innovation in the practice of architecture by empowering students, emerging professionals, and early career architects to do things they would not otherwise have the capital or resources to accomplish.
2026 SMALL PROJECT DESIGN GRANT
Submission Deadline: April 17, 2026
The 2026 Small Project Design Knowledge Community Grant cycle is open for submission. This grant provides financial support for nonprofits working with architects on community-based projects and demonstrates the value of hiring an architecture firm (and AIA member). Up to three grants will be awarded for up to $5,000 each. LEARN MORE
JOB BOARD
Project Architect
May. 4, 2026
Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects
Neumann Lewis Buchanan Architects with offices in DC and Middleburg, VA is seeking an architect with...
Your available job positions show here when you list with AIAPV. Listings are only $25 for AIAPV members and $50 for all others. Post jobs here. See also the AIA Career Center.
BLOG
American Cedar & Millwork Announces Opening of New Bethesda Showroom
Bethesda Showroom Now Open! American Cedar & Millwork is proud to announce the opening of our new 4,000+ sq. ft. North Bethesda showroom—now open and available as a resource for the Maryland AIA community.
05/15/2026
A Requiem for Certificate of Merit Statutes in Federal Court
In January 2026, the US Supreme Court issued a decision raising questions about the enforceability of certificates of merit in federal court. The key lesson for design professionals: what the legislature giveth, the legislature or courts may taketh away.
05/11/2026
Wiencek + Associates Joins Torti Gallas + Partners Under the Torti Gallas Flag
TG+P, an award-winning DC-based firm with a passion for architecture, urban design, planning, and placemaking, is excited to announce the acquisition of Wiencek + Associates Architects + Planners (W+A), effective May 1, 2026.
05/11/2026
Multiple Concurrent “Claims” On One Project: Implications for Design Professionals
By understanding the evolving landscape of professional liability insurance, architects and engineers can make informed decisions that protect their firms, their projects, and their financial stability.
04/21/2026
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