Modest Expansion for Architecture Billings Index

Business conditions softening most in Midwest in recent months  Contact:  Scott Frank 202-626-7467 sfrank@aia.org http://twitter.com/AIA_Media

Washington, D.C. – March 23, 2016 – The Architecture Billings Index saw a dip into negative terrain for the first time in five months in January, but inched back up in February with a small increase in demand for design services.  As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the February ABI score was 50.3, up slightly from the mark of 49.6 in the previous month. This score reflects a minor increase in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 59.5, up from a reading of 55.3 the previous month.

“March and April are traditionally the busiest months for architecture firms, so we should get a clearer reading of underlying momentum over the next couple of months,” said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD.  “Hopefully the relatively mild weather conditions recently in most parts of the country will help design and construction activity move ahead at a somewhat faster pace.”

Key February ABI highlights:

• Regional averages: South (51.1), West (49.9), Northeast (49.5), Midwest (49.3)
• Sector index breakdown: multi-family residential (53.0), commercial / industrial (52.3), institutional (48.1), mixed practice (47.7)
• Project inquiries index: 59.5
• Design contracts index: 51.7

The regional and sector categories are calculated as a 3-month moving average, whereas the national index, design contracts and inquiries are monthly numbers. About the AIA Architecture Billings Index The Architecture Billings Index (ABI), produced by the AIA Economics & Market Research Group, is a leading economic indicator that provides an approximately nine to twelve month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction spending activity. The diffusion indexes contained in the full report are derived from a monthly “Work-on-the-Boards” survey that is sent to a panel of AIA member-owned firms. Participants are asked whether their billings increased, decreased, or stayed the same in the month that just ended as compared to the prior month, and the results are then compiled into the ABI.  These monthly results are also seasonally adjusted to allow for comparison to prior months. The monthly ABI index scores are centered around 50, with scores above 50 indicating an aggregate increase in billings, and scores below 50 indicating a decline. The regional and sector data are formulated using a three-month moving average. More information on the ABI and the analysis of its relationship to construction activity can be found in the recently released White Paper, Designing the Construction Future: Reviewing the Performance and Extending the Applications of the AIA’s Architecture Billings Index on the AIA web site.

Architects Take Leading Position In New Tax Reform Coalition

Contact: John Schneidawind202-626-7457 johnschneidawind@aia.org http://twitter.com/AIA_Media

For immediate release: Washington, D.C. - March 22, 2016 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today announced that it has signed on as charter members of “Parity for Main Street Employers” (PMSE), a coalition pushing for comprehensive tax reform that treats small business fairly.

Formerly called the Pass-Through Coalition, the “Parity for Main Street Employers” steering committee is made up of nine national trade groups actively representing private employers in the tax reform discussion. The group’s general membership is made up of those trade groups that have signed on to the tax reform principles letter that forms the core of the group’s advocacy efforts.

The most recent iteration of that letter was released last week ahead of tomorrow’s hearing on Tax Reform before the House Ways and Means Tax Policy Subcommittee. The letter, which is signed by more than 100 business groups including the AIA, calls on Congress to enact tax reform that is comprehensive, restores tax rate parity for all businesses and reduces or eliminates the double tax imposed on corporations.

“Almost 80 percent of AIA members are small businesses,” said AIA President Russ Davidson, FAIA. “Any attempt to reform the tax code must protect such small businesses and restore rate parity between corporations and so-called pass-through businesses that contribute more than 50 percent of business income to America’s economy.”

“The AIA is proud to be a part of the PMSE as well as serve on its steering committee,” Davidson said.

The letter closes, “By embracing these broad concepts, Congress can move the taxation of business income in a direction that helps all employers, regardless of how they are organized, to invest and create jobs here in America.”

About The American Institute of Architects Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.

About Parity for Main Street Employers Parity for Main Street Employers represents more than one hundred national business groups representing millions of Main Street employers.  The coalition’s Steering Committee is made up of eight national trade groups – American Council of Engineering Companies, American Institute of Architects, Associated Builders and Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, Independent Community Bankers of America, National Beer Wholesalers Association, National Roofing Contractors Association, S Corporation Association, and National Association of Wholesalers – while the general membership is made up of groups that have signed the letter outlining the three principles they believe tax reform should follow – comprehensive, restore rate parity, and reduce or eliminate the corporate double tax.

In Memoriam: Kay Kaiser, 1951-2016 - Former UT Architecture Critic

Donations in Kay Kaiser’s memory can be made to the Ilan-Lael Foundation in Julian, the San Diego Public Library or to the Ruocco Fund at the San Diego Foundation. Learn more about Kay Kaiser here. Kay also wrote the text to "The Architecture of Gunnar Birkerts" published by the AIA in 1989.

Studio E Architects Designs Northern California's First Tax Credit Financed Modular Workforce Housing

Northern California’s first Tax Credit financed modular-built workforce housing, Parkside Studios, has recently opened in San Jose, CA. This Studio E Architects design is an evolution of their work in micro-unit affordable housing and their work with modular construction. Other examples of this project type include Archer Studios in San Jose, winner of Builder Magazine’s 2013 Grand Award for Workforce Housing and the 17-story, 250 unit high-rise Celadon in San Diego, winner of Builder Magazine’s 2014 Grand Award. View their blog for more details.

RFQ: Boyce Hall Vivarium Renovation

University of California, RiversideRequest for Qualifications Boyce Hall Vivarium Restoration

Executive Architect Services for Program Verification, Preliminary Plans, Construction Documents, Bidding, Construction Administration, and Post Construction Phase Services

View the official RFQ

View RFQ Addendum A

12 Architects Selected to Receive the 2016 American Institute of Architects' Young Architects Award

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has selected 12 recipients for the 2016 AIA Young Architects Award.  Young Architects are defined as professionals who have been licensed 10 years or fewer regardless of their age.  This award, now in its 23rd year, honors individuals who have shown exceptional leadership and made significant contributions to the profession early in their careers.  The Young Architects Award recipients will be honored at the 2016 AIA National Convention in Philadelphia. Seth E. Anderson, AIA

Anderson graduated magna cum laude from Washington State University in 2002 and became licensed in 2007. By age 32 he had earned the title of senior associate. Anderson opened Ascent Architecture & Interiors in 2012 with the desire to provide clients with a personalized approach to architecture. In 2014, Anderson formally outlined Ascent’s business plan, finishing third place of 51 entries in the Charrette Venture Group’s Architectural Business Plan competition. Anderson believes in supporting emerging professionals, the architecture profession, and the Central Oregon community where the firm is located.

Mindy Aust, AIA

Armed with a passion for public architecture, coupled with a commitment to mentorship and community involvement, Aust has devoted her career to thoughtful design of public spaces, including multiple award-winning federal government, public library, and university campus projects. Aust, who received a BArch from Iowa State is currently an associate with Des Moines based Substance Architecture and is the current President of AIA Iowa, the third woman to lead the chapter in its 110-year history. A strong advocate for excellent design and its benefit to communities, Aust uses her expertise to advance the profession in multiple contexts.

Erin Carraher, AIA

Carraher, an assistant professor at the University of Utah's School of Architecture, works to empower students to make a positive impact beginning on the first day of school through an integrated approach to scholarship, creative work, teaching, and service. She graduated with a BArch from Virginia Tech and a MArch from Yale and practiced with BKSK Architects in New York City before moving into teaching full-time. Carraher concentrates on developing projects that engage students with practitioners, researchers, and community organizations in the development of built work. She is active with the AIA, NAAB, and NCARB through a variety of service and committee work at the local, state, and national levels.

Bob Ganser, AIA

Ganser is an award winning designer, educator and a mentor. He is an advocate for the value of quality design and the architectural profession. Ganser is currently an architect at MSR Design in Minneapolis. In 2005, he co-founded CityDeskStudio Architecture and Design - the small firm he helped to shape over 11 years of practice. He has also worked in the offices of HGA Architects and Engineers and Snow Kreilich Architects. Ganser has been a design studio instructor for the School of Architecture at the University of Minnesota since 2006 and is co-chair of the AIA Minnesota Committee on Design.

Amy L. Kalar, AIA

Kalar’s passion, talent, and dedication has a profound influence on her profession and community through a combination of advocacy, education, and innovative practice. She earned a MArch from Montana State University and is a Senior Associate with HGA Architects and Engineers. She practices as a healthcare architect and medical planner, using evidence-based design to bring innovation to healthcare environments. A leader in promoting women’s roles in the AEC industry, Kalar co-founded the AIA-MN Women in Architecture Committee.  Her blog, ArchiMom.com, is dedicated to parents in architecture.

Yu-Ngok Lo, AIA

Lo graduated from Iowa State University with a BArch in 2004. His work received numerous design awards and has been featured in various media outlets such as ArchDaily, Hinge Magazine and Hospitality-Interiors Magazine.  Lo served on the AIA Long Beach-South Bay chapter Board of Directors and is currently serving on the AIA Construction Contractor Administration Knowledge Community Advisory Group, AIA Diversity Council, AIA California Council COTE and the Advocacy Advisory Committee.  He is also a Senior Editor for the AIA YAF CONNECTION and the Editor-In-Chief of the NOMA Magazine and AIBD Magazine.

Karen Lu, AIA

Lu’s commitment to design excellence and to positively impacting future generations of architecture professionals and global citizens is evident in her professional work and service to the AIA and her community.  Lu received a MArch degree from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design and is a Senior Associate at HGA Architects & Engineers.  She previously worked with VJAA and Selldorf Architects.  Currently serving on the AIA Minnesota Leadership Forum Advisory Committee, she is also the Board Chair of Yinghua Academy, a K-8 elementary school and national leader in Chinese immersion education.

Shelby Morris, AIA

Morris earned a MArch from Texas Tech University. Currently he is an Associate Principal at Beck where he has led or been part of over $500 million of design and design/build work.  The AIA has provided Morris the opportunity to pursue one of his personal passions, education, helping initiate the AIA Atlanta Youth Architecture Fair.  Morris has served throughout the AIA as YAF Advisory Committee, the AIA SAR YAF Director, AIA Atlanta Director of Public Awareness, AIA 2015 National Convention Committee, and AIA National Convention Tours Co-Chair.

Carey Nagle, AIA

Nagle graduated with a BArch from Iowa State University and is an Associate Principal with BNIM in Des Moines. His award-winning high performance design projects have helped to define design excellence as a balance of design and building performance. Nagle is a holistic practitioner with a broad range of notable project experience, professional leadership and community contributions that demonstrate his rare combination of humility, integrity and drive.

Daniel J. Scheaffer, AIA

Scheaffer earned a BArch from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville and currently works for LS3P in Charleston, South Carolina, where he brings particular expertise in healthcare design and digital visualization. He believes that the greatest responsibility healthcare architects have, is to create healing environments that enhance and support the care, treatment, and healing process.  His aim is to place human welfare at the heart of the art and science of building design.  Scheaffer recently served as 2013-2015 AIA-SC State Director - Lowcountry, and is deeply committed to professional and community service.

Carissa Shrock, AIA

Shrock, Senior Associate at Moore Ruble Yudell Architects & Planners, holds a BArch from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.  Her portfolio is comprised of various complex project types, including American embassies. Shrock’s commitment to a better built environment carries into her passion as a leader and mentor. She is currently serving on the AIA/LA Board of Director and is Chair of the Design Awards Committee. As the IDP Coordinator and NCARB Licensing Advisor, she guides candidates through the extensive licensure process. Extending into the local community, Shrock energetically introduces young students to architecture as a potential career path.

Stephanie Silkwood, AIA

Silkwood is a graduate from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and an Associate at RMW architecture & interiors in San Jose, California.  She is a leader in raising the bar for the architecture profession through service, advocacy, and by empowering and educating future leaders of the profession. Throughout her early career, Silkwood has continuously focused her energy on elevating and improving the public image of the architecture profession through her involvement with AIA Santa Clara Valley, AIA California Council, AIA National Young Architects Forum, California Architects Board, and NCARB.

The jury for the 2016 Young Architects Award includes: Albert W. Rubeling, FAIA, Chair, Rubeling & Associates, Inc.; Lenore M. Lucey, FAIA, LML Consulting; Virginia Marquardt, AIA, DLR Group; Raymond 'Skipper' Post, FAIA, Post Architects; John Sorrenti, FAIA, JRS Architect, PC and Edward Vance, FAIA, EV&A Architects, Inc. You can view past recipients of the Young Architects Award here: http://www.aia.org/practicing/awards/AIAS075294

Cuningham Group Architecture, Inc. Announces Promotions

International design firm Cuningham Group Architecture, Inc. (Cuningham Group^®) is proud to announce new promotions in its San Diego office.

“Cuningham Group is built on the strengths of our people,” remarked Tim Dufault, President. “Promotions provide an opportunity to acknowledge the individual strengths and talents of our staff and to reward activities that show leadership across a broad spectrum of our work.” Team members are recognized for building value within the company, growing professionally and sharing Cuningham Group’s vision and core values.

Senior Associate Angela Lafica, NCIDQ, CID, IIDA, EDAC Angela adapts her comprehensive knowledge of finish selections, space planning, lighting, furniture specifications and wayfinding to each unique project brilliantly. She has been involved in many aspects of the design process including design development, construction documents and construction administration. Her knowledge of design styles and ability to understand each client’s specific needs enables Angela to create successful and attractive interior design for a variety of diverse project types. Most recently, her work has focused on the healthcare industry, including lending her expertise to the American University of Beirut Medical Center in Lebanon, Bakersfield Memorial Hospital Pediatric Study in California, and extensively to the Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale, Arizona.

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Karen Pickens Karen contributes over 18 years of experience in marketing and new business development to her role as Marketing Manager. Through her detailed approach, long-standing internal and external industry relations and advanced writing skills, Karen enables the San Diego office to run smoothly and efficiently. Her primary role includes managing the ongoing fulfillment of new business outreach and exceeding clients’ expectations by developing clear, concise and expedient proposals and related collateral to promote project expansion in all markets groups.

In addition to the promotions in San Diego, Cuningham Group also recognized individuals in its other offices.

Associate Principal

Nina Broadhurst, AIA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Janet Bucholdt, CDFA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Jack Feichtner, LEED^® AP, Los Angeles, California Jeremy Holen, Minneapolis, Minnesota Gregory Houck, AIA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Mark Kalar, AIA, Esq., LEED^® AP BD+C, Minneapolis, Minnesota Erik Okland, AIA, NCARB, LEED^® AP BD+C, Denver Colorado Juan Perez, AIA, NCARB, Los Angeles, California Marcy Schulte, AIA, LEED^® AP BD+C, Los Angeles, California

Senior Associate

David Engleson, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Eric Lagerquist, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Nathan Leblang, AIA, Phoenix, Arizona Cassandra Lovelle, CDFA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Samuel Olbekson, Assoc. AIA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Jian Shu, AIA, NCARB, LEED^® AP BD+C, Las Vegas, Nevada Jeffrey Tonkin, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Associate

Julian Barajas, AIA, LEED^® AP, Los Angeles, California Michael Hoffman, AIA, LEED^® AP, Los Angeles, California Theresa Jones, AIA, Biloxi, Mississippi Erin Anderson, AIA, NCARB, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Melinda Bohl, GBA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Zachary Duesier, AIA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Steven Epley, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Scott Howell, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Brittany Johnson, CID, NEWH, Minneapolis, Minnesota Jan Knutsen, AIA, Minneapolis, Minnesota Ryan Lovelle, Minneapolis, Minnesota Peter Mikelson, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Edward Morin, Minneapolis, Minnesota Catherine Polk, LEED^® AP, Las Vegas, Nevada Lani Priddy, AIA, LEED^® AP, Minneapolis, Minnesota Morayma Salas, CSI, CCCA, Denver, Colorado Sukreet Singh, BEMP, EMIT, LEED^® AP BD+C, Denver, Colorado

About Cuningham Group

Awarded the American Institute of Architects Minnesota Firm Award in 2013, Cuningham Group® transcends tradition with architecture, interior design, urban design and landscape architecture services for a diverse mix of client and project types. The firm’s client-centered, collaborative approach incorporates trend-setting architecture and environmental responsiveness to create projects that weave seamlessly into the urban fabric. Founded in 1968, the firm is consistently recognized as a leader in the field of architecture and has grown to over 300 employees in offices in Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Biloxi, Denver, San Diego, Phoenix, Seoul and Beijing. For more information, please visit www.cuningham.com.

Obituary for Harry Clay Hallenbeck, FAIA 1934 – 2016

Harry Clay Hallenbeck, FAIA, 81, died Tuesday, February 3, 2016 in Denton, Texas from stroke related complications.

He leaves his wife of 35 years, Donalee (Deffenbach) Hallenbeck; his three daughters, Aline Hallenbeck Caulley, Risa Hallenbeck Yuhas, and Kalyn Hallenbeck Baer, and his two stepchildren, Dawn Lee Dias and Donald Braverman.  He was preceded in death by his brother John Hallenbeck and his sister Betty Hallenbeck Spelman. He celebrated 17 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and two on the way; and many other family members and friends.

Harry was born in 1934 and raised in the San Francisco bay area, the son of Helen and John Hallenbeck.  He attended Santa Clara University and University of California, Berkeley where he studied architecture.

Harry was the owner of his architectural practice with offices in Alameda and San Diego.  He was involved in many unique architectural projects from the America’s Cup masterplan in San Diego to the restoration of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, in Sacramento.  He was the recipient of over 30 design awards and advanced in the practice of Virtual Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM) with the Sacramento construction management firm Vanir CM.

Harry served his profession as California State Architect, board members and officers of the American Institute of Architects, Oakland Chapter, California Council and National AIA.  He was awarded the honor of Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, California State Architect and the AIA Kemper Award for outstanding service to the public and the profession.

There will be a Memorial Mass honoring Harry on Monday, March 7^th at 2 p.m.  The Mass will be at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament, 1017 11^th Street, Sacramento, CA.  The Mass celebrant will be Bishop Emeritus William K. Weigand with homilist Pastor Emeritus, Msgr. James T. Murphy.

The family welcomes all to attend this very special memorial for Harry.

Contact Person:  Donalee Hallenbeck, Wife – 916- 690-2714 / donalee.hallenbeck@gmail.com 11805 Southerland Drive, Denton Texas  76207

AIA Member News: HDR welcomes Carol Lanham back to the firm

Carol Lanham has returned to HDR as a civic principal in the Los Angeles architecture studio. Originally in the Dallas architecture studio from 1988 to 2001 as a project architect, Carol says she is “extremely excited” to work with her friends and colleagues again. Carol says she learned everything she knows about justice architecture and good design from her mentors at HDR. Through her new role as a civic principal, she will help build the firm’s civic and justice architecture practice in California and the West. A 28-year veteran in the justice architecture field, Carol most recently served as the assistant circuit executive for space & facilities for the Eighth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals headquartered in St. Louis.

Carol is a problem-solver who enjoys working with a team toward a common goal. She enjoys finding out why people work a certain way, why they utilize a particular process and why they need a new space. This is what comprises the essence of good design, she says.

She also strongly believes in mentorship. “You can’t continue to have a successful business or team without training,” she says. “It’s important to lead by example, and to pass along the knowledge and wisdom gained from experience.”

“Carol brings a depth of experience in civic architecture that broadens our reach in the justice and corrections markets,” says Amy Williams, managing principal of the Los Angeles architecture office. “She brings a no-nonsense approach to architecture, and leveraging this with our existing design talent will allow us to do great things for our clients.”

You can connect with Carol by email and on LinkedIn.

About HDR HDR has partnered with clients to shape communities and push the boundaries of what's possible since 1917. We specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. With nearly 10,000 employees in more than 225 locations around the world, we think global and act local.

We are committed to strengthening communities through accessible, sustainable and inspiring public buildings. Through creative place-making, we strive to reinforce civic engagement, understanding that inclusion and participation is at the heart of community—whether it be a small rural town or a large international city.

Bid Invitation: North Park Senior Apartments

Portrait Construction, Inc., General Contractor, is requesting Sub-Bids from qualified MBE/WBE/LBE/OBE and Section 3 Business Concerns (certified by San Diego Housing Commission) for the following project: North Park Senior Apartments, 4200 Texas Street, San Diego, CA 92103

We are reaching out to local Chambers and minority organizations for assistance in posting our invitation to bid so local subcontractors can be afforded the opportunity to bid.

View official bid notice: PCI Invitation to Bid

For Sale: Vintage Solid Oak Architectural Plan Drawers

Vintage Solid Oak Architectural Plan Drawers--two separate banks

• Each bank is 45.5" wide, 34.5" deep, 14.5" high(29" double stacked)
• Each stack is separate and has a polished travertine top

Available are TWO double stacked sets (i.e. 4 sets). If sold stacked, available with travertine tops.

$2500 per stack OR $4000 total or best offer.

Contact topbuck@pacbell.net or 858.792.5755

AIASD Member News: JCJ Architecture Invited to Become a Knowledge Partner in the American Architectural Foundation’s Design for Learning Program

JCJ Architecture Invited to Become a Knowledge Partner in the American Architectural Foundation’s Design for Learning Program Firm to Support Personalized Learning Efforts with 21^st Century Design Expertise

Hartford, Conn. – January 27, 2016 – JCJ Architecture has joined forces with the American Architectural Foundation’s (AAF) Center for the Advancement of Architecture to support its national Design for Learning initiative. The firm will serve as one of six Knowledge Partners that will help AAF achieve its goal of providing key stakeholders with a single place to turn for information, technical support and inspiration on school design.

Design for Learning, which builds upon the ten-year legacy of the Great Schools by Design program, encourages elected officials, superintendents, school boards and other civic leaders to enhance the relationship between student learning and the school environment through design innovation. Its personalized learning design initiative, recently launched with a generous grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is currently working with six school districts to transform their existing schools.

JCJ will contribute the services of its experts to support design workshops with partner school districts. AAF design experts explore the role of design with local educators and administrators, encouraging thinking about design and change management in new ways to create spaces that more effectively support innovation and student-centered educational programs. The firm also participated in the recent AAF National Summit on School Design held at the landmark Crow Island School in Winnetka, IL.

“Educators nationwide are facing a challenging paradox: the need to cultivate skills for a creative 21^st century economy within school buildings that were often built during the industrial era to prepare students for factory jobs,” said James LaPosta, JCJ's Chief Architectural Officer and a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects. “Design for Learning’s platform for collaboration is fostering broader dialogue about the role school building design can play in transforming teaching and learning.”

JCJ’s role as a Design for Learning Knowledge Partner complements the firm’s vast project portfolio in STEM/STEAM education and 21^st Century Learning – including Fairchild-Wheeler Interdistrict Magnet Campus in Bridgeport, Conn.; Marine Science Magnet High School in Groton, Conn.; University High School of Science and Engineering in Hartford, Conn.; Regional Center for the Arts in Trumbull, Conn.; Portsmouth Middle School in Portsmouth, N.H., and Glover Elementary School in Marblehead, Mass., among others.

Other Design for Learning partners include Cuningham Group Architecture, DLR Group, FGM Architects, Perkins & Will and Steelcase.

About JCJ Architecture

Founded in 1936, JCJ is headquartered in Hartford with offices in Atlanta, Boston, New York City, Phoenix, San Diego and Stamford. The firm is recognized nationally as one of the country’s most respected architecture firms, providing clients with comprehensive planning, programming, architectural and interior design, project management and construction administration services. With a long standing reputation for creativity, excellence and business acumen, JCJ Architecture works across a broad range of building types including K-12 and higher education, civic and community, sports and recreation, mixed use, hospitality and entertainment. For more information, visit www.jcj.com.

RFQ: Batchelor Hall Interior Improvements and Building Systems Renewal

University of California, Riverside Request for QualificationsBatchelor Hall Interior Improvements and Building Systems Renewal

Phase 1 – Evaluation of the Existing Detailed Project Program and Campus Project Objectives; Assessment of the Existing Building Infrastructure Renewal and Integration with the Proposed Tenant Improvements

Phase 2 – Executive Architect Services for Preliminary Plans, Construction Documents, Bidding, and Construction Administration Phases

Project Number: 958038 (Study), 950464 (Project), 950531 (Project)

Contract Number: 958038-950464-950531-PSA-2016-73

View complete RFQ here.

T.B. Penick & Sons: Concrete Construction's 2016 Most Influential People

Congratulations to Byron and Chris Klemaske of T.B. Penick & Sons for being chosen as Concrete Construction's 2016 Most Influential People! View original article here.

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Making Decorative Concrete Professional: Byron and Chris Klemaske, T.B. Penick By William D. Palmer Jr.

Byron and Chris Klemaske see decorative concrete as real concrete that requires the same level of care. “We follow the installation rules for concrete when it comes to both curing and jointing,” says Byron. “We try to explain to our clients that decorative concrete is still concrete and that all the rules still apply. Many decorative concrete contractors lose sight of this and end up having issues on their projects. It’s our reputation on the line even if the customer signs off on the risk.”

What we call decorative concrete is still concrete, “it’s not magic concrete,” says Chris Klemaske, the marketing and customer relationship half of the team with husband Byron who runs the decorative concrete operations for T.B. Penick, San Diego.

“Here at Penick we follow the installation rules for concrete when it comes to both curing and jointing,” says Byron. “We try to explain to our clients that decorative concrete is still concrete and that all the rules still apply. Many decorative concrete contractors lose sight of this and end up having issues on their projects. It’s our reputation on the line even if the customer signs off on the risk.”

The Klemaskes have learned this from nearly a lifetime in the decorative concrete business. “I worked for a landscape company in the summers while in high school,” says Byron. “I loved being involved with the concrete aspects and eventually started running concrete crews right out of high school. I was involved on one of the first stamp jobs in Southern California. I’ve been working with decorative concrete since that day.”

Chris came at it from a different angle, first working with Byron’s company, then starting her own business in the late 1980s to do sealing of stamped concrete projects. “I realized that decorative contractors were paying really good money to clean, seal, and restore concrete. I spoke to a friend of mine and we started Classic Concrete Care. After five or six years, that business evolved into me working for another company, helping to design and sell residential concrete work and then commercial work.”

Today, Chris works with architects, owners, and builders while Byron runs the decorative concrete construction operations for T.B. Penick. In 1999, Penick asked if he would work with them and he brought his whole crew of 60 people with him. “We’ve been there since and it was the best move we ever made,” says Byron. Chris agrees and adds, “We never looked back.”

“Over the years,” Byron explains, “decorative contractors have not always been seen as serious contractors. But over the past few years I have seen that evolving quickly. Today there is at least one leading company in every city that is the go-to decorative concrete contractor for their area.”

“For a young decorative contractor,” Byron continues, “I would tell them to portray yourself as a professional, including working safely and providing quality. And follow the rules of concrete — it’s not magic concrete.” From her work with architects, Chris emphasizes the point, “Know when to say no and don’t try to do things you don’t know how to do. If you lose a project, that’s better than risking your reputation.”

“And finally,” Byron says, “get the right people in place. If not for the people we work with day in and day out here at Penick — and their families —none of this would be possible.”

Visit www.tbpenick.com for more information.

T.B. Penick submitted the project "Santee Town Center" for the 2016 Triad Award.

Architecture Billings Index Ends Year on Positive Note

While volatility persists, architecture firms reported healthy performance for 2015 Contact:  Scott Frank 202-626-7467 sfrank@aia.org http://twitter.com/AIA_Media

There were a few occasions where demand for design services decreased from a month-to-month basis in 2015, but the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) concluded the year in positive terrain and was so in eight of the twelve months of the year.  As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lead time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the December ABI score was 50.9, up from the mark of 49.3 in the previous month. This score reflects a slight increase in design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 60.2, up from a reading of 58.6 the previous month.

“As has been the case for the past several years, there continues to be a mix of business conditions that architecture firms are experiencing,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, Hon. AIA, PhD.  “Overall, however, ABI scores for 2015 averaged just below the strong showing in 2014, which points to another healthy year for construction this year.”

Key December ABI highlights:

• Regional averages: West (53.7), South (53.3), Northeast (46.7), Midwest (46.1),
• Sector index breakdown: multi-family residential (52.9), institutional (52.2), commercial / industrial (47.3), mixed practice (46.5)
• Project inquiries index: 60.2
• Design contracts index: 51.0

The regional and sector categories are calculated as a 3-month moving average, whereas the national index, design contracts and inquiries are monthly numbers.

About the AIA Architecture Billings Index The Architecture Billings Index (ABI), produced by the AIA Economics & Market Research Group, is a leading economic indicator that provides an approximately nine to twelve month glimpse into the future of nonresidential construction spending activity. The diffusion indexes contained in the full report are derived from a monthly “Work-on-the-Boards” survey that is sent to a panel of AIA member-owned firms. Participants are asked whether their billings increased, decreased, or stayed the same in the month that just ended as compared to the prior month, and the results are then compiled into the ABI.  These monthly results are also seasonally adjusted to allow for comparison to prior months. The monthly ABI index scores are centered around 50, with scores above 50 indicating an aggregate increase in billings, and scores below 50 indicating a decline. The regional and sector data are formulated using a three-month moving average. More information on the ABI and the analysis of its relationship to construction activity can be found in the recently released White Paper, Designing the Construction Future: Reviewing the Performance and Extending the Applications of the AIA’s Architecture Billings Index on the AIA web site

AIASD Member News: Silva Studios Architecture Awarded Best of Houzz 2016

Over 35 Million Monthly Unique Users Nominated Best Home Building, Remodeling and Design Professionals in North America and Around the World Silva Studios Architecture of San Diego has won “Best Of Design” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. The 30-year old architecture firm was chosen by the more than 35 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than one million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

The Best Of Houzz is awarded annually in three categories: Design, Customer Service and Photography. Design award winners’ work was the most popular among the more than 35 million monthly users on Houzz. Customer Service honors are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2015. Architecture and interior design photographers whose images were most popular are recognized with the Photography award. A “Best Of Houzz 2016” badge will appear on winners’ profiles, as a sign of their commitment to excellence. These badges help homeowners identify popular and top-rated home professionals in every metro area on Houzz.

“Anyone building, remodeling or decorating looks to Houzz for the most talented and service-oriented professionals” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing for Houzz. “We’re so pleased to recognize Mark A Silva of Silva Studios Architecture, voted one of our “Best Of Houzz” professionals by our enormous community of homeowners and design enthusiasts actively remodeling and decorating their homes.”

Follow Silva Studios Architecture on Houzz http://www.houzz.com/pro/markitect

About Silva Studios Architecture Based in Southern California and founded in 1986, Silva Studios Architecture creates place as a direct reflection of you and your site. Award winning architect, Mark Silva makes your project a fusion of your dreams, the personality of the site, and the authenticity of architecture.

About Houzz Houzz is the leading platform for home remodeling and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish – online or from a mobile device. From decorating a small room to building a custom home and everything in between, Houzz connects millions of homeowners, home design enthusiasts and home improvement professionals across the country and around the world. With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality.

Cavignac & Associates Expands Risk Control Department and Introduces Enhanced 2016 Service Model

NEWS FROM:  Cavignac & AssociatesCONTACT:  Bonnie Kutch, Kutch & Company (619) 299-1010, bkutch@kutchco.com

Cavignac & Associates Expands Risk Control Department and Introduces Enhanced 2016 Service Model

SAN DIEGO, CA -- (January 7, 2016) – Cavignac & Associates, a San Diego-based risk management and insurance brokerage firm, has expanded its Risk Control Department and related in-house services it can provide to clients to reduce the frequency and severity of their losses and lower their cost of risk.

Cavignac & Associates’ Workers Compensation Claims Management Advisor Meghan Dickerson, who joined the firm in 2007, has taken on leadership of the department as Director of Risk Control. Under Dickerson, Cavignac & Associates has brought on full-time advisors Heather Stone, Esq., and Joe Rojas to work with clients in the areas of human resources and safety. Additionally, Cavignac & Associates has hired Risk Control Coordinator Dan Smith to support the team administratively, and to ensure clients are maximizing the benefits provided by Cavignac & Associates’ risk control team.

“Typically, insurance brokers sell policies and provide reactive service,” said Jeff Cavignac, CPCU, ARM, RPLU, president and principal of Cavignac & Associates. “This does nothing to drive down clients’ costs.  Our model, which we have branded the “Total Risk Approach,” is different in that it’s designed to drive dollars to clients’ bottom lines.”

Cavignac said the firm’s “TotalRISK Approach” involves four steps:  Risk analysis, the systematic identification of loss exposures; risk control, strategically focusing on lowering claims frequency and severity; risk finance, determining the best way to finance the exposures an organization has to risk; and finally, risk review and refinement, staying in touch with its clients to make certain the firm is proactively managing its clients’ risk.

Stated Dickerson, “None of our competitors provide this level of expertise in the area of claims management, human resources, and safety -- they don’t have these people on their payroll.  We do, and that’s what differentiates us from other insurance firms.  We partner with our clients to help them improve their bottom-line results.”

Together with the expansion of its Risk Control Department, Cavignac & Associates has introduced an enhanced servicing model for 2016. The new model will allow clients to pick the level of service that suits their needs, while providing the best possible financial outcomes.

About Cavignac & Associates:

Founded in 1992, Cavignac & Associates is a leading risk management and commercial insurance brokerage firm providing a broad range of insurance and expertise to design and construction firms, as well as to law firms, real estate-related entities, manufacturing companies and the general business community. The firm offers commercial insurance, personal lines insurance, employee benefits, surety bonds, and complete in-house risk control management services.  Company principals are Jeffrey W. Cavignac, CPCU, ARM, RPLU, CRIS, MLIS; James P. Schabarum II, CPCU, AFSB; Scott A. Bedingfield, AAI, CIC, CRIS; Patrick Casinelli, RHU, REBC, CHRS; and Matthew Slakoff, CIC, CRIS. Cavignac & Associates employs a staff of 45 at offices located at 450 B Street, Suite 1800, San Diego, Calif., 92101.  More information about the company can be found on the Web at www.cavignac.com.

AIASD President Believes Downtown Has Bright Future With or Without Chargers

AIA San Diego President, Daniel Stewart, AIA wrote an op-ed for The San Diego Union Tribune about the future of San Diego. Read the original article here.  

For Sale: HP DesignJet 1050c Plotter

Architects hanna gabriel wells is selling a HP DesignJet 1050c Plotter. The 36” large format plotter is in good, working condition. Prints both color and black & white. Asking $850 or best offer.

Plotter specifications can be found here:

http://h20564.www2.hp.com/hpsc/doc/public/display?docId=emr_na-bpp02457#N1000E

Interested buyers please contact Rachel at 619-523-8485 or rachel@architects-hgw.com

The Daily Transcript - Maxine Ward: San Diego's Rock Star Architect

Congratulations to Maxine Ward, AIA for her recent feature in The Daily Transcript! Read the full article here.