T. David Fitz-Gibbon Virginia Architecture Firm Award to VIA design architects

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The T. David Fitz-Gibbon Virginia Architecture Firm Award is the highest honor bestowed by AIA Virginia to a Virginia-based architecture firm and is intended to recognize a firm that has consistently demonstrated outstanding and continuous contributions to the profession, to the community, and are known for the quality of their work. VIA design architects of Norfolk, Virginia will be honored with this award for 2024.

Founded in 1991 by visionary architect Donna Phaneuf, VIA has consistently remained ahead of the curve. As their vision statement states, “VIA isn’t just about designing spaces; it’s about shaping the future. We are guided by three core principles that define our approach: future-focused, client-centric design, and community-driven initiatives. These principles are embodied in every project we undertake, from innovative sustainable practices to nurturing the next generation of architects.”

As stated by their nominator for this award, “VIA design sees things that don’t exist and makes them happen. They always have. They created a woman-owned firm, embracing the change they wanted to see in architecture and in society… a diverse, equitable practice. They incorporated environmental stewardship in their projects even before it became the clarion call of a generation; and, they never stop learning… from their work, from their clients and from their colleagues… evolving from what they learn. VIA design exemplifies 21st Century practice, yet, their practice is very personal, a matter of the heart. Theirs is a strong culture of talented collaborators, working in a positive, respectful, and collegial environment, upholding the adage “excellent design matters.” And, they practice what they preach, developing the next generation of architects as the leaders who will create the future of the profession… and of the society we serve. VIA design elevates the profession… consistently producing distinguished architecture… and embodies the very principles of the T. David Fitz-Gibbon Architecture Firm Award.”

To celebrate their successful practice, leadership development, design excellence, and civic engagement, VIA design architects will be honored with The T. David Fitz-Gibbon Virginia Architecture Firm Award at the Visions for Architecture event on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott.

Celebrate with VIA design architects at Visions for Architecture>>

Kathryn Prigmore Recognized as 2024 Noland Medalist

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The William C. Noland Medal, as the highest award bestowed on a member architect, is intended to honor a distinguished body of accomplishments sustained over time that spans a broad spectrum of the profession and transcends the scope of normal professional activities. For 2024, the medal is awarded to Kathryn T. Prigmore, FAIA.

As the Director of Operations at Moody Nolan’s D.C. office, Kathryn exemplifies visionary leadership,
placing the human experience, environmental sustainability, and historical context at the forefront of her
architectural endeavors. Her steadfast belief in the transformative power of dynamic architecture and urban design has reshaped communities and left an indelible mark on the built environment.

Kathryn’s design philosophy, rooted in academia and shaped by her extensive experience, prioritizes the
harmonious integration of form and function to create spaces that are not only aesthetically captivating but also functionally effective and socially impactful.

Her illustrious career is punctuated by many award-winning projects, ranging from federal and
private developments to defense installations. Notable among these are the National Operations Center, the Pentagon, and the Level IV Department of Homeland Security US Customs and Immigration Services
Headquarters, each a testament to Kathryn’s mastery of design, engineering, and project management.

Beyond her architectural achievements, Kathryn’s dedication to education and mentorship is exemplary. As an esteemed educator in architecture, engineering, and sustainable design, she has inspired countless
students through her role as an adjunct professor at Howard University and Virginia Polytechnic & State
University’s Washington-Alexandria Architecture Center. Ms. Prigmore truly advocates for minority
architects and takes pride in developing the next generation of architects and leaders.

A distinguished Fellow of the AIA, and a member of prominent organizations such as the National
Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and the Society of Building Science Educators (SBSE),
Kathryn’s influence extends far beyond her professional accomplishments, enriching both the architectural community and society at large.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, unwavering leadership, and enduring legacy, Kathryn T. Prigmore, FAIA, will be presented with the Noland Medal at the Visions for Architecture event on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott.

Celebrate with Kathryn at Visions for Architecture>>

Mantra Inspired Furniture’s Unity Table Collection Wins Multiple Awards at NeoCon 2024

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An AIA Virginia Allied Member Spotlight

Mantra Inspired Furniture (Mantra IF), a leading commercial furniture manufacturing and design company based in Norfolk, Virginia, proudly announces that its Unity Table Collection has been awarded multiple prestigious awards at NeoCon 2024. Recognized for excellence in design and sustainability, the Unity Table Collection has emerged as a standout at North America’s premier commercial furniture trade show, held from June 10-12 at the Merchandise Mart in Chicago.

The Unity Table Collection received the following honors:

  • Best of NeoCon 2024 Sustainability Award in the Furniture Category, Café Tables
  • Best of NeoCon 2024 Sustainability Award in the Furniture Category, Occasional Tables
  • Best of NeoCon 2024 SILVER Award in the Furniture Category, Café Tables
  • Best of NeoCon 2024 Business Impact Award in the Furniture Category, Café Tables

“We were overwhelmed by the response and support of our new Unity Table Collection.  Our answer to the ability of producing an American made solid wood commercial table series that is authentically sustainable was received with much positive energy!  We are excited to see where Unity takes us next!”, said Susan Pilato, CEO and Founder of Mantra Inspired Furniture.

The Unity Table Collection introduces an innovative flat-pack design, revolutionizing the shipping and installation process. Crafted from solid wood—available in walnut, white oak, cherry, or maple—the tables boast durability and timeless elegance. The base effortlessly slides together, and the top is secured firmly in place, making installation straightforward and cost-effective for end-users. This versatility makes the Unity table ideal for collaboration areas, meeting rooms, and conference settings, adapting to various spatial requirements.

Every component of the Unity Table Collection, from its 1 ¼” solid wood construction to its streamlined design, meets Mantra Inspired Furniture’s high-quality standards. With a 10-year warranty, it ensures long-lasting durability. The collection’s solid wood construction supports a circular economy by reducing packaging materials and shipping space. Designed for longevity and potential for reuse and refinishing, it embodies environmental responsibility.

For more information on the Unity Table Collection, please visit https://www.mantrainspiredfurniture.com/unity. 

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About Mantra Inspired Furniture

Mantra Inspired Furniture (MantraIF) was founded in 2018 by Susan Pilato, principal of Norfolk-based PC&A Business Environments. The name is inspired by 8 simple codes, or “mantras” to live by, passed down from Pilato’s late father, John Clayborne Compton, Jr.

Mantra Inspired Furniture is a grassroots community of designers and makers propelled to create timeless, enduring, investment grade designs. Our strength lies in our abilities as an agile disrupter and our promise to Mother Earth to bring to the marketplace furniture that sequesters carbon and embraces the cyclical ability to repair, restore and renew. With enthusiasm and optimism, Mantra is dedicated to products made in America by American craftspeople. Mantra Inspired Furniture is doing authentic sustainability now.

Mantra Inspired Furniture has collaborated with designers and architects to furnish its commercial collections across the United States. 

Press Contact:
Blitzer & Company
sabrina@blitzerandcompany.com

New Members

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We are always excited to welcome new members to Virginia. The following members recently joined the ranks of AIA Virginia.

New Architect Members
Michael Juriga, AIA (Richmond)
Jong Youn Kim, AIA (Northern Virginia)
Leslie Shepherd, AIA (Northern Virginia)

New Associate Members
Dylan Carter, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Indhu Lakshmi Chowdry Makkena, Assoc. AIA (Richmond)
Mia Craig, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Lindsy Custer, Assoc. AIA (Blue Ridge)
Victoria Douthat, Assoc. AIA (Richmond)
Sean Festa, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Katherine Fogash, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Clayton Greer, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Prakhyaa Mukesh Jain, Assoc. AIA (Central Virginia)
Jayce Murnen, Assoc. AIA (Northern Virginia)
Peter Ngau, Assoc. AIA (Richmond)
Sarah Noah, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Annetta Osvold, Assoc. AIA (Richmond)
Amanda Pinkos, Assoc. AIA (Blue Ridge)
Snow Sosnowski, Assoc. AIA (Northern Virginia)
Rishabh Suvarna, Assoc. AIA (Coastal Virginia)
Jennie Wells, Assoc. AIA (Richmond)
Andrea Maggi, Intl. Assoc. AIA (Northern Virginia)

Transferred In
Michelle Borde, Assoc. AIA (Northern Virginia) from AIA New York State
Pamela Leonard Patrick, AIA (Northern Virginia) from AIA Mississippi

New/Renewed Allied Members
Patrick Cushing, Partner, Fall Line Strategies
Frederick Perry II, Director of Design, Foodservice Solutions Design Consultants

View all of the AIA Virginia Allied members

Things You Can and Cannot Yet See

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Much is happening at AIA Virginia.

Several activities are cycling through each of the local chapters. These include firm visits, seminars addressing the recent changes to the building code, and town halls with state-level leaders and resources. We’ve enjoyed seeing you there and look forward to encountering those who attend the remaining events.

We are also making progress on various items that will surface later.

The Honors Committee, the Design Awards jury, and the Nominations Committee have all been busy.

We are finalizing the plans and logistics for ArchEx and Visions for Architecture (6-8 November in Richmond).

We are formulating a new development program for mid-career professionals.

We are increasing the value and impact of our communications.

We are engaged in the due diligence required to establish and prioritize the planks of our advocacy platform.

We are replenishing the Political Action Committee (PAC) war chest.

And we are preparing for the launch of our newly established 501c3 charitable organization, the AIA Virginia Foundation.

Stay tuned for additional announcements and opportunities to engage. We anticipate great things. And we look forward to our future collaborations and achievements.

Paul Battaglia, AIA
EVP, AIA Virginia

Newly Licensed

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We understand the dedication and effort required to study for and pass the ARE. Congratulations to the following members for passing their exams and gaining licensure. This is great news that thrills all of us and we are so proud to call you an architect!

Michael Steinmetz, AIA (Northern Virginia)
Perry Hammond, AIA (Richmond)
Taro Matsuno, AIA (Central Virginia)

Have you recently passed the ARE? Upgrade your membership to Architect using this AIA form. or send an email to your Member Services Director, Cathy Guske, cguske@aiava.org

Are you ready to get licensed? AIA Virginia has discounted 60-day Amber Book subscriptions. Read more about it here>>

Have questions about licensure? Contact AIA Virginia’s State Licensing Advisor, Gina Robinson, AIA, at gina.robinson@hdrinc.com

Call for At-Large Director

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At its June 2022 meeting, the AIA Virginia Board of Directors created an At-large Director position, seeking applicants to serve in this leadership role.

At-large Director Position

The At-large Director is a vital link in the two-way communication between constituents of the American Institute of Architects in Virginia and the state organization. Individuals will be elected to serve on the AIA Virginia board because of their experience, contributions to the profession, and understanding of the organization, all of which should be shared with other members of the Board of Directors.

An At-large Director should bring the viewpoints of their colleagues; moreover, they have a responsibility to advise the members and stimulate them to work for results on which AIA Virginia has chosen to focus. As a member of the Board of Directors, the At-large Director’s viewpoints should be statewide in scope while at the same time representing the unique interests of each chapter’s geographic region. The term of office for this director is two years (non-renewable; non-consecutive terms). 

Candidate Declaration  

Any member-in-good-standing may declare their candidacy by informing the Secretary, through the Executive Vice President, of their intention to run for the At-large Director position.

Candidate submissions are due by 5:00 p.m. EDT Monday, August 5, 2024, to Paul R Battaglia, AIA | Executive Vice President at pbattaglia@aiava.org.

Candidates must submit the following:

  • A candidate’s resume, headshot, and statement of philosophy. The statement of philosophy is limited to 250 words.
  • A declaration indicating that the individual’s firm does not employ unpaid labor on projects.
  • A statement of acknowledgment from the local AIA component that the candidate will stand for election.
  • A letter of support from three different AIA Virginia members in good standing.

Voting for Candidates

Any member-in-good-standing may participate in the election of Directors. Voting will occur during Architecture Exchange East (ArchEx) at the Annual Meeting of the Membership on Wednesday 6 November 2024.

Updates from the J.E.D.I. Committee

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The AIA Virginia Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) committee has been highlighting the diversity of our profession through our “perspectives” campaign on our social media channels this year. Thank you to our members who have submitted their information for publication!

As a reminder, there is an EDI Resources page on aiava.org here>> where the committee posts useful best practices, book recommendations, articles and allied organizations doing EDI work.

For Mental Health Awareness Month in October, we would like to publish tips and comments from our members about how you tackle mental health issues. If you would like to participate (all anonymously!) answer 2 short questions below and submit.

Sorry. This form is no longer available.

VACOTE Awarded Grant

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The AIA Virginia Committee on the Environment (VACOTE) has been awarded the Knowledge Community Grant for 2024.

Virginia COTE will be organizing a three-part workshop educating members on energy modeling tools, processes, and best practices. In support of the AIA’s overall climate goals, Virginia COTE seeks to elevate understanding of the AIA 2030 Commitment and disseminate expertise to meet the Commitment’s goals among architects and designers. This workshop will help members move their organizations towards meeting the challenge goal of carbon-neutral building by 2030.

The grant will support providing this educational opportunity to AIA Virginia members by facilitating in-person meetups in each regional chapter and by maintaining a low-cost fee structure to maximize participation while providing access to top-level expert instructors.

Congratulations Virginia COTE!

Associated Thoughts: Balancing Acts

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As I sit inside, blissfully cooled by the air conditioner, I find myself thinking about the balancing acts we make in life. There’s the constant work-life balance that seems to ebb and flow with project deadlines and summer vacations, but for many of us, there is also the day-to-day balancing act of the various roles we may play across multiple projects. When working at different stages of different project types, how can we help ourselves from getting overwhelmed? How can we be our own air conditioners, and keep ourselves cool when the heat and pressure of multi-tasking rises? 

The first bit of advice I can offer is prioritizing tasks – what items have the most pressing deadlines? Which items will take more time than others? Making a To-Do list for the week, day, or even afternoon can be very helpful in laying out what’s on the docket, and helps to navigate which tasks are more pressing than others. (Plus it’s always very satisfying when you can cross an item off your list.) 

Another tip is to group similar tasks together. If you’re working on Construction Administration for one project, Schematic Design and renderings for another, and Construction Documentation for a third, etc… it can be overwhelming to constantly flip back and forth between the different phases and roles you may play. Each phase demands a different approach to working, a different means of communicating and often times, different tools and programs to get the tasks accomplished. It helps to group together similar tasks so that you don’t have to change your role back and forth as many times. You will be more productive focusing on one role at a time, than constantly jumping back and forth between multiple roles and tasks. 

A favorite (and perhaps obvious) tip, is to remember to breathe! Not just your regular rhythm, but remembering to stop and take a deep breath, possibly get up from your desk to get water or take a bathroom break, before switching roles and tasks can be extremely helpful. A momentary pause will help clear your mind as you prepare to step into a different way of thinking and working. 

Finally, if you can help it, try not to leave tasks half-way done before jumping to the next. This can be tricky depending on the size of the task at hand, or if you are waiting for information or review from others, but for tasks you can accomplish on your own, it’s helpful to see them all the way through and cross them off your list before jumping over to the next item. Leaving things incomplete can make it harder when you get back into them later, and often you have to reorient yourself to what work is complete and what work still remains. 

There is no perfect way to balance multiple roles at once, both in life, or at the office. However, staying organized, focused, and above all, calm, will help keep the multi-tasking and role switching from becoming overwhelming. Each role you take on helps with personal and professional growth (for better or for worse), and learning to balance multi-tasking early on will make life afterwards that much smoother. 

Stay cool out there! 

Ashleigh Walker, Associate AIA
awalker@architecturefirm.co