Movie Night - The Pavilion on the Water

The Pavilion on the Water producer Giorgio Guernier speaks to attendees.

We returned to the BFI for our Autumn movie screening in early November. Unfortunately due to programming conflicts and cinema availability, in the Autumn of 2024 we were only able to screen one movie. We started the Autumn screenings and ended the 2024 screenings on a high note, with a screening of The Pavilion on the Water.

The film, directed by Stefano Croci and Silvia Siberini, offers an intimate exploration of renowned Venetian architect Carlo Scarpa's profound connection to Japanese culture. Through careful cinematography and thoughtful pacing, the documentary weaves together Scarpa's architectural vision with his deep appreciation for Japanese aesthetics. It's particularly poignant that Japan, which served as such a wellspring of inspiration throughout his career, would also be where his life's journey ended in 1978.

What makes this documentary especially compelling is its ability to capture the essence of artistic genesis. The filmmakers approach their subject with a gentle melancholy, acknowledging not just the loss of Scarpa himself, but also the rarity of witnessing true artistic brilliance emerge. Yet there's also celebration here – a recognition that through his masterful works, Scarpa's vision continues to captivate and inspire new generations of architects and designers.

The debate at the end of the movie was lively, and was made especially so as we were honoured to have the film producer Giorgio Guernier attend the screening, where he took over leading the discussion and answering questions after the movie.

Many thanks to all who attended our screenings in 2024, and we look forward to welcoming you back and having many more of you join our screenings in the upcoming year.

Written by Chris Musangi, AIA

Chris Musangi introduces The Pavilion on the Water.

AI and the Future of Architecture with Neil Leach

On November 18, 2024, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) UK chapter hosted a compelling lecture titled “AI and the Future of Architecture,” presented by esteemed architect and academic Neil Leach. The event took place at MillerKnoll London’s new showroom, providing an ideal setting for professionals to explore the profound implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on architectural practice.

Neil Leach, co-founder of DigitalFUTURES and a professor with extensive teaching experience at institutions such as the Architectural Association, Harvard GSD, and SCI-Arc, has been at the forefront of integrating digital technologies into architecture. His work with NASA on developing 3D printing technologies for extraterrestrial applications underscores his innovative approach to design and construction.

In his lecture, Leach embarked on an insightful exploration of AI, tracing its evolution and examining its potential to revolutionize architecture. He emphasized that AI represents a transformative force, introducing an “alien intelligence” that could surpass human capabilities and fundamentally alter the discipline. This perspective aligns with his previous discussions, where he has described AI as both “incredible and terrifying,” highlighting its dual capacity to drive innovation and pose challenges.

Leach delved into the current landscape of AI tools, noting the rapid advancements in platforms like ChatGPT and Midjourney. He observed that these tools have evolved from producing dreamlike, abstract outputs to generating images and text that are nearly indistinguishable from reality. This progression underscores AI’s accelerating development and its growing proficiency in tasks traditionally undertaken by architects.

A significant portion of the lecture was dedicated to the broader implications of AI on the architectural profession. Leach urged practitioners to move beyond a superficial engagement with AI tools and to consider the deeper, systemic changes that AI could precipitate. He raised critical questions about the future of architectural labor, professional liability, and the foundational structures of practice, academia, and licensure. These reflections are crucial as the profession grapples with the integration of AI into its workflows.

Leach also addressed the ethical considerations surrounding AI, acknowledging concerns about data bias and the potential for AI to perpetuate existing inequalities. He emphasized the importance of developing ethical frameworks to guide AI’s implementation in architecture, ensuring that its adoption promotes inclusivity and serves the broader societal good.

The lecture concluded with a thought-provoking discussion on the future trajectory of AI in architecture. Leach posited that as AI continues to advance, it will not only augment human creativity but also challenge traditional notions of authorship and design. He encouraged architects to embrace AI as a collaborative tool, one that can expand the boundaries of design and open new avenues for innovation.

Following the lecture, attendees engaged in a dynamic Q&A session, reflecting the audience’s keen interest in the subject. The event provided a platform for architects to critically assess the role of AI in their practice and to consider how they might navigate the opportunities and challenges it presents.

In summary, Neil Leach’s lecture offered a comprehensive and nuanced examination of AI’s impact on architecture. His insights underscored the necessity for the profession to proactively engage with AI, to understand its capabilities and limitations, and to shape its integration in a manner that enhances the discipline while addressing ethical considerations. As AI continues to evolve, such dialogues are essential in guiding architecture toward a future that harmoniously blends technological innovation with humanistic values.

Written by ChatGPT
AI Prompted by Lulu Yang, AIA
Photos by Taylor Rogers, AIA

2024 AIA UK/RIBA Keynote Lecture - David Lake FAIA & Ted Flato, FAIA

The 2024 AIA UK/RIBA Keynote lecture featured San Antonio-based architects David Lake, FAIA and Ted Flato, FAIA, winners of the 2024 AIA Gold Medal. The lecture was held on the 22nd of October at the RIBA headquarters at Portland Place.

RIBA CEO Valerie Vaughn-Dick and President Muyiwa Oki opened the evening both sharing thoughts on how events such as these serve to strengthen the commitment of both RIBA and AIA’s goals on education and stewardship of the profession.  AIA UK President Taylor Rogers also welcomed the audience and moderated the subsequent Q&A. 

David and Ted began their presentation by noting the great inspiration they draw from cities like London but also commenting on the comradery and zeal of the architectural community in the city. In their humble and disarming manner the two quickly settled into the story of how their practice developed and the inspiration they drew from their own mentors and in and around Texas. They traced through early projects setting the tone for the future of the practice that is now known around the world.

The pair took the audience from the early days of their practice with projects such as the Air Barns or the Hill Country Jacal ranch to larger and more well known projects such as the AT&T Center. Of particular focus was the re-development of the Pearl Brewery Center in San Antonio, a mixed use development which repurposed and revitalized a twentysix acre parcel of underused land in a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, arts and entertainment. 

They also dwelled on some of the quieter and refined nature of their work such as Confluence Park which provides visitors an opportunity to engage with the landscape and architecture in a personal manner. With Confluence Park the concrete petals sit lightly on the land, elegantly directing rainwater into the concealed cisterns acting as an emblem for the larger San Antonio ecosystem.

David and Ted spoke in an honest and relatable manner, it was clear to those in attendance that these two care deeply about not only the built work but the impact that it has on the occupants and the impact their work has on the environment. Their kind words for each other, practice of architecture, clients and projects created a comfortable atmosphere for the audience to appreciate the simplicity and elegance of their work and approach to design.

There was a short Q&A after the presentation with the focus of a few questions on how the pair approach the idea of craft and development of detail across the wide range of projects the practice may have on at any one time. Additional questions focused on the sustainable aspects of their projects and how they’re able to successfully realize such progressive ideas or technologies with programs or budgets that don’t otherwise seem to support such aspirations.

After the lecture there was a short drinks and networking event where attendees could gather and socialize. Following this the AIA UK hosted a dinner for David, Ted, their wives and members of the AIA UK and RIBA staff who organized the event. It was a lovely evening reflecting on the great work of the practice and their willingness to share their story with our community. 

For those that were not able to attend the lecture, it can be viewed on the AIA UK website HERE.

AIA members can obtain CES credit by watching the recording at the link above and completing the associated quiz when it becomes available.

Please also see HERE for the RIBA Journal’s article about the keynote lecture.

Written by Taylor Rogers, AIA

Member Dues Tax Relief Announcement

In an effort to make membership more accessible and maintain a high value for members the board is pleased to announce that all aspects of the AIA UK dues now qualify for tax relief! The AIA UK, AIA International and National organizations are now acknowledged as professional organizations allowing members' dues to be claimed for tax relief. The HMRC logs this information HERE.

The list contains three references to the AIA, one for each level of dues a member pays (National, International, United Kingdom) and notes the date from which one can claim tax relief on the dues. One will notice that the AIA UK portion of the dues can be claimed from April 2023 while the National and International portions are tax deductible from April 2024. 

This notice applies to not only those who pay dues directly but also firms which pay for AIA dues on behalf of a member. The AIA UK suggests that members that have any questions on this contact their employer, the HMRC or their tax preparer.

2024 Pub Quiz At The College Arms

Photo by Adelina Koleva, AIA.

On Wednesday, November 13, 2024, members of the AIA UK community and friends gathered at the College Arms in London for a relaxed evening of architectural trivia and general knowledge over drinks. The event, free to attend and open to everyone, was a great opportunity to bring people together, whether in pre-formed teams or solo participants looking to join forces on the night.

The evening began at the Axalta London Colour Experience Room, where attendees enjoyed a warm welcome by AIA UK sponsor representative Dami Babalola who generously provided drinks (matcha lattes!) and snacks (cleverly chosen Skittles – so visitors could “taste the rainbow”). Axalta’s vibrant showroom, showcasing an astonishing 700 powder coating colours, provided a visually engaging start to the event.  The range of powder-coating options – some developed for appearance, others for durability – offered plenty of inspiration for anyone with a passion for colour.

By 6:45, the group had migrated across the street to the College Arms, where the pub quiz got underway in a private area downstairs. The event was championed by Bea Sennewald, longtime organiser of the AIA UK pub quiz, with assistance by Adelina Koleva, who helped in preparing and scoring questions. Michael Lischer also played a valuable impromptu role as master of ceremonies.

There was a total of five teams of various sizes, the smallest of which comprised only of two (exceptionally knowledgeable, and very determined!) board members. Questions were a mix of architectural trivia and broader general knowledge which kept everyone entertained and challenged in equal measure. Axalta ensured participants stayed on their toes by contributing a special round of questions focusing on colour, which made for a great learning experience to round of the earlier visit to the showroom.

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After a spirited contest, the team made up of a medley of solo participants - students and young professionals – emerged victorious, reeling in the top prize of a bottle of champagne (and some well-earned bragging rights). Congratulations! Importantly, the evening provided a chance for architects, designers, sponsors, and enthusiasts to connect, relax, and enjoy each others company in an informal setting.

Thank you to everyone who joined, and a special thanks to Axalta for their generous sponsorship and for hosting the pre-quiz drinks. We hope to see even more of you at our next event!

Written by Adelina Koleva, AIA

Beale & Co Expands Global Presence with New Office Launch in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

International construction and insurance law firm - and AIA UK sponsor - Beale & Co announced today the opening of a new office in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The office enhances Beale & Co’s wider growth strategy in its key global construction markets, supporting its Canadian and international clients with their construction and infrastructure project needs for contract drafting and negotiation, collaborative contract work, project bid / support work, project advisory work and strategic advice on risk management and disputes.

Beale & Co’s new office in Canada will be led by construction and infrastructure lawyer Andrés Durán, an Ontario and BC qualified lawyer who was formerly SVP Legal Services and General Counsel at one of the largest construction and infrastructure services companies in Canada.

Andrés joins as a Partner with over 15 years’ experience working in the infrastructure sector in Canada, with significant expertise in construction, operations and maintenance, and other general infrastructure matters. He has worked with a wide range of public and private sector companies and agencies in bringing marquee projects to completion and into operation across Canada. He has also overseen and managed complex disputes and insurance litigation during his in-house career.

Andrés strengthens Beale & Co’s international contracts and projects advisory team, led by Will Buckby and comprising over 20 experienced lawyers.

Opening an office in Canada reinforces Beale & Co’s commitment to developing its international platform, which currently includes offices in England, Ireland, Scotland, and the UAE, that collectively work across 60 countries and five continents.

Antony Smith comments: “The construction, energy and infrastructure sector in Canada is booming and the opportunities for contractors and consultants are vast. The Firm is already well connected with many of these firms operating in Canada, either through work on Canadian or on international projects. With our strategy having always been to follow our clients, an office in Toronto is a natural expansion of Beale & Co’s international team and provides an even greater opportunity to support our clients more broadly.”

Andrés Durán, says: “Beale & Co’s expansion to Canada represents a significant opportunity for the construction and infrastructure market here. As something I have been a part of for over 15 years, I know that there is a demand for additional international boutique legal support in this area focussed on the needs, opportunities and challenges faced in the industry.”

Beale & Co has over 60 years’ experience providing specialised expert legal advice to the construction, engineering, infrastructure, and insurance sectors globally, with over 120 lawyers spread across its offices in England, Ireland, Scotland, the UAE and now Canada.

*Beale & Co is an international law firm operating through various separate and distinct legal entities. As such, Beale & Co LLP in Canada is a separate and distinct legal entity from Beale & Company Solicitors LLP in England and Wales, Beale & Co LLP in Ireland, and Beale & Company (Middle East). For further information about these matters please refer to the Legal Notices page of the Beale & Co website here.

For further information, please contact:

Katie Garrett, Head of Business Development

E: k.garrett@beale-law.com

T: +44 (0) 20 7469 0470