Movie Night - New England Modernism

Chris Musangi introduces New England Modernism. Photo by Lana Kustrak.

The grey and dark London winter days call for a visit to the cinema, and those who joined us for our first screening of 2025 definitely had some warmth added to the cold February days. We kicked off this year with a sold-out screening of ‘New England Modernism,’ a compelling documentary that traces the evolution of Modernist architecture in the American Northeast.

The film masterfully chronicles how the United States experienced a dramatic transformation in architectural design between the 1930s and 1970s. Through carefully curated archival footage and stunning contemporary photography, we witness how European Modernism took root in New England soil, beginning with pioneering works like William Lescaze's Field House in New Hartford, Connecticut, and Albert Frey's Ralph- Barbarin House in Stamford.

The documentary's narrative heart centers on the remarkable concentration of talent that emerged in New Canaan, Connecticut during the 1940s. Here, the legendary "Harvard Five" - Marcel Breuer, Landis Gores, John Johansen, Philip Johnson, and Eliot Noyes - established what would become a crucible of Modernist innovation. Their presence attracted other visionary architects including Victor Christ-Janer, Andrew Geller, and Edward Durell Stone, whose collective work would reshape the architectural landscape of New England and beyond.

What makes this film particularly poignant is its exploration of preservation versus progress. While celebrating these revolutionary designs that still inspire architects worldwide, it also confronts the ongoing challenges these architectural treasures face from redevelopment pressures. The documentary serves as both a celebration of this remarkable period and a call to protect its legacy.

The film was well received and the debate that followed was engaging. Some sentiments were that it would be important for the public to see this documentary, a coffee table book of all the featured buildings and their architects would be nice, and it was interesting to see modernist buildings from the context of high-end residences, as opposed to social housing as is common in the UK.

One of the questions asked during the discussion was about the length, which was longer than our usual screenings, and if this documentary was a series. As a follow up, Director Jake Gorst responded: 

“Regarding the length, this film was originally going to be a miniseries, but due to a 2-year COVID production shutdown and discussions with the executive producer it was decided that we would make it one solid feature-length documentary. It is lengthy, but we have been marketing it as a “deep dive” into the history of modernism in New England. Believe it or not, we’ve had people complaining about things we left out! 

I had actually trimmed about a half hour out of the original cut to get the film to the length it is now. And I’m taking those deleted sequences and incorporating them into a short film called ‘Curating Modernism’ about various forms of preservation, which we will release later this year.“

Special thanks to Jake Gorst of Mainspring Narrative Films for making this film available to the AIA UK before its London Premiere in June this year. (Watch out for news about Curating Modernism on Mainspring Narrative’s website HERE.) Many thanks for your continued support of our movie night series, and we look forward to having you join us for our next screening: ‘Green Over Grey,’ on Tuesday 18 March.

Written by Chris Musangi, AIA

Photo by Lana Kustrak.

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.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

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