June 10, 2026 

Chapter News

Perfect Weather, Great Company, and a Stronger Future for Architecture: AIAPV/PVAF Golf Outing a Success

On Friday, May 29, 2026, eighty golfers gathered at the University of Maryland Golf Course in College Park, Maryland, for the annual AIA AIAPV|PVAF Golf Outing. With sunny skies and temperatures in the low 70s, participants enjoyed ideal conditions for a memorable day of golf, networking, and support for a great cause.

The Golf Outing serves as the primary fundraiser for the Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation (PVAF), helping advance its mission of supporting students, emerging professionals, and outreach initiatives that strengthen the architecture profession and inspire future generations of architects.

We extend our sincere thanks to all of the golfers, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and supporters who helped make this year's event such a tremendous success. Your participation directly supports programs that provide scholarships to architecture students, mentoring opportunities, leadership development initiatives, design competitions, and educational outreach efforts throughout our region.

We would also like to recognize our Platinum Sponsors, Ernest Maier and Quikrete, whose generous support played a significant role in the success of this year's outing.

PVAF is committed to investing in the future of architecture by supporting students and emerging professionals at every stage of their journey—from K–12 STEM and architecture awareness programs to collegiate scholarships, mentoring, professional development, and licensure support. Through these efforts, the Foundation helps cultivate the next generation of design leaders while promoting the value of thoughtful, sustainable design in our communities.

Additional details regarding the Golf Outing, fundraising results, and the impact these funds will have on PVAF programs will be shared in the coming weeks.

If you would like to learn more about the Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation or support its important work, please visit:

Potomac Valley Architecture Foundation

Together, we are helping shape the future of architecture and ensuring a vibrant profession for generations to come.

AIAPV 2026 EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN AWARDS IS OPEN FOR ENTRIES

The 2026 AIA Potomac Valley Excellence in Design Awards competition is open for entries. This premier program celebrates outstanding architectural achievement and honors projects that demonstrate design excellence, innovation, sustainability, and positive community impact.

Entries will be reviewed by a distinguished jury from AIA Arkansas, led by Marlon M. Blackwell, FAIA, Founder and Design Director of Marlon Blackwell Architects.

Now is the time to review the Call for Entries and prepare your strongest projects for consideration. We look forward to recognizing the region’s exceptional design achievements at our Design + Leadership Awards celebration this October!

FULL DETAILS

2026 DESIGN + LEADERSHIP AWARDS SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

     
 
Click here for details on advertising in Potomac Valley Architect

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Potomac Valley Events

Mass Timber in Multi-Family Housing: Is It a Good Fit for Your Project?

June 17, 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Mass timber is often attached to the stigma of being more expensive than other building materials. Because of this, some people assume it only makes sense for one-off projects where innovation is celebrated but repeatability is not. Is this true, or do its other benefits result in overall cost efficiency? If it is true, how can we expect to build the number of new housing units needed across our country in a sustainable and affordable manner? Typical multi-family housing developments are in the range of 4-6 stories, often utilizing podium or pedestal construction with 1-2 stories of steel and concrete topped with 3-5 stories of light wood framing. Beyond these heights, building codes have historically required steel or concrete framing and, to justify the added costs of these materials, projects often go much taller. This has created a critical gap in housing developments in the range of 6-12 stories. Can mass timber multi-family projects make financial sense in the 4-6 story range, used in conjunction with light wood-frame systems? What new opportunities will the 2021 International Building Code create for mass timber housing in the 6-18 story range? This presentation will answer these questions and much more.

CHAPTER CLOSED FOR JUNETEENTH

The Chapter will be closed on Friday, June 19 in observance of the Juneteenth National Independence Day holiday.

INTRODUCTION TO VERTICAL TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS

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

This introductory course explores basic types of elevators, escalators, and miscellaneous lift applications. Additionally, this course covers basic "rules of thumb" to assist in preliminary determination of number and type of vertical transportation unit(s) required for a project based on several variables including size, program and population. Current concepts such as sustainable vertical transportation methods, impact on LEED points/process and Destination dispatching are also explored.

AIA Potomac Valley Committee Meetings – Join Us!

June 12 | Committee on the Environment (COTE) (Virtual) 11:00 AM
June 17 | Emerging Professionals Committee (Virtual) 6:30 PM

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Pride Month

Introducing the LGBTQIA+ Alliance

Celebrating Pride Month with Community, Connection, and Advocacy

Just in time for Pride Month, AIA Potomac Valley is proud to introduce the LGBTQIA+ Alliance, a collaborative initiative dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive professional community across the architecture and design industry. The Alliance brings together members from AIA Virginia, AIA DC, AIA Northern Virginia, AIA Richmond, AIA Coastal Virginia, and the DC Build Out Alliance, creating a connected regional network committed to representation, advocacy, and engagement.

The LGBTQIA+ Alliance works to cultivate a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA+ architects and their allies through ongoing opportunities for connection, dialogue, and professional growth. By creating space for shared experiences and relationship-building, the group supports greater inclusion and visibility within the profession while strengthening the broader design community.

Throughout June, there are several opportunities to celebrate Pride and connect with others in the community. Capital Pride Weekend (June 19–21) includes both the Capital Pride Parade and the Capital Pride Festival, one of the region’s largest celebrations. The Washington Nationals Pride Night on June 24 also offers another opportunity to gather and celebrate.
If you are interested in getting involved or learning more, please reach out to Robert Tarbell, AIA at [email protected].

Happy Pride Month—we look forward to building community and celebrating together. 🌈

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Featured Project

The Leggett + Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC)

Kishimoto.Gordon.Dalaya PC (KGD Architecture)
Silver Spring, MD

We're proud to spotlight another 2025 Design Awards winner and extend our congratulations to Kishimoto.Gordon.Dalaya PC (KGD Architecture) for its outstanding work on The Leggett + Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC), a mixed-use development in Silver Spring, Maryland. The project was recognized with a Commendation Award by the jury for its strong social impact and community-focused design.

Above Image: The Leggett + Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC) Entrance at Dusk  Photo: Patrick Ross Photography


(l to r) Marc Feinstein, AIA (2025 AIAPV President) with Nia Furr, NCARB, Alex Shifflett, AIA; Iffat Afsana, AIA; and Kevin Pennington, RA —KGD Architecture  Photo: ©2025 Montgomery Planning

This 420,000 SF development redefines community for the entire DC metro region, comprising multiple projects under one umbrella: The Leggett with 267 units of senior living housing within a mixture of affordable and market-rate units; the 134,000 SF Silver Spring Aquatic & Recreation Center (SSRAC); and the 7,500 SF Holy Cross Health Partners clinic. It is also about the real compassion architecture can symbolize and create in a planned environment that is—in equal parts—humane, healthy, and beautiful, coming together as a set of crucial amenities and services centered on art, technology, healthcare, and sustainability.

The Leggett Community Room and Building Lobby
Photo: © Kristopher Ilich Productions LLC

Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC) Main
Photo: © Kristopher Ilich Productions LLC

Its vision, which was Phase 2 in redeveloping this existing urban block, remained on anchoring downtown Silver Spring as a walkable and vibrant neighborhood with access for all and opportunities for everyone to actively engage, learn, and support their own health and well-being, all within an “embrace” to unify a community spectrum of mixed incomes from low income and above.

Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC) Social Hall and Reception
Photo: © Patrick Ross Photography

Silver Spring Recreation & Aquatic Center (SSRAC) Gymnasium
Photo: © Kristopher Ilich Productions LLC

JURY: “This mixed-use development is a true gift to the neighborhood. The jury was impressed with its strong social impact, especially the commitment to a community-focused design. With new pools, a health center, and dedicated senior living, the development shows a real understanding of the community's needs, creating a new, vibrant hub for everyone to enjoy.”

LEARN MORE

EXPLORE MORE ABOUT THIS PROJECT 

View all 2025 AIAPV Design Award Winners at: https://bit.ly/2025AIAPVDesignAwardsWinnersGallery

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Events, Education & Opportunities

AIA CONFERENCE SOCIAL

June 11, 6:30 PM
AIA Conference, San Diego, CA | RSVP

PASSIVE HOUSE DC CHAPTER MEETING

June 18, 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]

ACTIVATING THE GUIDES FOR EQUITABLE PRACTICE, WORKPLACE CULTURE

June 18, 4:00 PM
Virtual | REGISTER

Explore practical strategies for strengthening workplace culture during the next Guides in Action session. This interactive discussion highlights Chapter 2 of the Guides for Equitable Practice and demonstrates how the Activation Kit can help turn ideas into action. Space is limited and registration is encouraged for those planning to attend. Contact Andrea Milo with questions.

A NEW NYC BUILDING CODE FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

June 25, 12:00 – 1:15 PM
Webinar | 1 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Do you renovate buildings in New York City? Then this important webinar is for you and your team. There is a new NYC Existing Building Code coming in early 2027.

The renovation of existing buildings in New York City today is regulated by the 2022 NYC Building Code which references the administrative code and previous building codes dating back to 1938. However, City Council is currently voting on legislation that will bring a new New York City Existing Building Code into effect early next year. This new code intends to provide clarity and eliminate grey areas that have been inevitable under today’s regulatory patchwork.

The new code will have significant impact on structural design—and consequently all design—related to existing structures. Kyle Twitchell, P.E. of KTA Engineering will introduce us to the important provisions of this new code by walking us through recent structural renovation projects and outlining how the new code requirements would have changed those structural designs. Kyle's insights promise to be fascinating, informative and useful. He will condense this learning experience into 1 hour, followed by 15 minutes for Q&A.

2026 ARE^® PREP: CONSTRUCTION & EVALUATION (CE)

July 18, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Virtual | 5 LU/HSW | REGISTER

Organized by AIA Northern Virginia

Prepare for the Construction and Evaluation section of the Architect Registration Examination^® 5.0 (ARE^® 5.0) with our comprehensive course. As one of the six divisions in ARE^® 5.0, this program delves into construction, contract administration, and post-occupancy evaluation of projects. Explore critical areas like construction observation, shop drawing and submittal review, bidding and negotiation, and project closeout, all essential elements for safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants. Join us for a practical and thorough preparation experience.

ECONOMIC UPDATE Q3 2026 ABI INSIGHTS

July 24, 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Virtual | 1 LU | REGISTER
 
Join AIA Chief Economist Richard Branch for a quarterly conversation about the AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI). The ABI is a leading monthly economic indicator that uses proprietary AIA data to predict nonresidential construction activity 9–12 months ahead. Get ahead of emerging challenges and opportunities and inform your strategic planning with key insights into the industry’s latest economic data and trends.

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From AIA

DOE ISSUES NEW GUIDANCE ON HOME ENERGY REBATE PROGRAMS

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently issued new guidance for states administering Home Energy Rebate Programs. The guidance addresses implementation and administration of rebate funding established through the Inflation Reduction Act.

SFX INSIDER – MAY 2026

In May, the state reps and boards met with NCARB and others for a conversation about the relationship between academia and practice. Check out The Insider report, "The Competency of Practice: Architectural Education and the Small Firm" outlining key takeaways regarding advice for new grads seeking employment, the benefits of hiring recent grads, and positioning your firm to support the academic-to-professional pipeline.

SAVE THE DATE: FIRM MANAGEMENT SYMPOSIUM

The Firm Management Symposium returns October 1–2 and will bring together firm leaders and practitioners to discuss business, leadership, and practice management topics.

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Calls, Competitions & Deadlines

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS: ENVIRONMENTS FOR AGING CONFERENCE + EXPO

Deadline for Proposals: June 12, 2026

Share your expertise with leaders in senior living design, development, and operations at the Environments for Aging Conference on April 12–14, 2027, in Charlotte, NC. Proposals due June 12.

AIA NATIONAL CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Application Deadline: June 15, 2026

The 2027 AIA National Call for Volunteers is now open, with applications accepted through June 15. Members can express interest in 80+ opportunities, including roles on the AIA Board of Directors, Strategic Council, board-level advisory committees, national award juries, knowledge communities, peer reviewers, and micro-volunteering opportunities.

AIA BOARD AND STRATEGIC COUNCIL CANDIDATES

Application Deadline: June 17, 2026

The 2027-2029 At-Large Director to the AIA Board of Directors (selected by Strategic Council) deadline has been extended to June 17. Interested candidates should apply now.

AIA MARYLAND 2026 EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN AWARDS

Deadline for Professional Entries: June 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM

The AIA Maryland 2026 Excellence in Design Awards and 2026 Student Design Awards are now open for entries. Full program details and Call for Entries are available at the AIA Maryland Awards Portal.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected] or 410-263-0916.

MENTORSHIP AND LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY COMPETITION FOR EMERGING PROFESSIONALS: CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

Deadline for Nominations: June 30, 2026

AIAPV is accepting nominations for its 2026 Emerging Professional Awards Program (EPAP)—a dynamic initiative designed to celebrate, support, and empower our next generation of architects. Through EPAP, we recognize outstanding Emerging Professionals, foster meaningful mentorships with our esteemed Fellows, and strengthen the AIAPV community as a whole. The annual EPAP Competition recognizes outstanding Emerging Professional leaders and provides them with a year-long opportunity to hone their leadership skills.

LEARN MORE & NOMINATE

2026 AIAPV EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN AWARDS COMPETITION

Submission Deadline: July 20, at 11:59 PM

The 2026 AIA Potomac Valley Excellence in Design Awards is a prestigious opportunity to showcase your firm’s most compelling, creative, sustainable, and community-enhancing work. Whether you're breaking new ground or preserving cherished history, this is your chance to be recognized for elevating the built environment through design. The competition is more than an awards program—it's a platform to honor architectural innovation, highlight the vital role of collaboration, and celebrate the transformative power of design.

CALL FOR ENTRIES

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: AIAPV 2026 KEA MEDAL

Submission Deadline: August 15

The Kea Medal, awarded biennially, recognizes professionals, volunteers, and colleagues whose exceptional efforts have elevated public awareness of the role of architecture. Chapter members are invited to submit nominations for consideration in one of three categories: a) Service to the Profession; b) Leadership; and c) Architectural Advocacy.

If you know of someone whose contributions deserve recognition, now is the time to nominate them! The 2026 Kea Medal will be presented during the Chapter’s Design + Leadership Awards ceremony in October.

SUBMIT KEA MEDAL NOMINATION

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