It’s easy to miss, but not hard to see. Architects have been shaping local communities across the country with their dedication to improving the communities where they live. Architects doing good for their communities do not go unrecognized. Across all AIA chapters, awards are given each year to architects that show true passion for architecture and the community where they are from.
Architects that are making a difference
Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas, James Nader, FAIA has had a huge impact on the preservation and improvement of historic places of worship throughout Texas. In 2018, he was given the Award for Community Service by the Texas Society of Architects. James founded the Partners for Sacred Places organization’s regional office in Texas and its Texas Sacred Places Project. This project collaborated with the schools of architecture and state historical commission to document information about historic sacred places in the state and the current state of their structures. James is a wonderful example of how architects can get creative and serve society to contribute to the public good.
Across the country in Pennsylvania, Richard DeYoung, FAIA was awarded the Medal of Distinction – the highest award bestowed upon a living AIA Pennsylvania member. This award honors contributions to architecture that transcend local boundaries and have been of benefit to the profession and citizens of Pennsylvania. Richard has served as an architect for 40 years and is changing the world through design. Throughout his decades as an architect, he has made an impact on higher education buildings, employing sustainable design practices by preserving, re-using, and restoring existing structures.
In Chicago, Linda Searl, FAIA of AIA Illinois is the 2018 recipient of the Gold Medal – Illinois’ highest honor for outstanding lifetime service by an AIA member. Linda has made a big impact on Chicago architectural design by serving as a chair and member to many architectural councils and clubs. Most notably, the Chicago Planning Commission, Chicago Women in Architecture, Urban Design Task Force, and the Contemporary Arts Council. Linda continues to problem-solve and fight for good design in Chicago.
The value of an architect goes beyond just creating a building. Through design, architects can impact your community in a positive way. When thinking about hiring an architect for your next building project, think about the way your neighborhood or community could benefit. Find out more about hiring an architect for your project here.
