Washington's Penn Quarter neighborhood is the original crossroads of the Federal Capital, envisioned by city planner Pierre L'Enfant as a civic core directly between the White House and U.S. Capitol Building. 19th century Washingtonians would have considered the area the commercial center of the city, boasting a massive Center Market, department stores like Lansburgh's and Woodies, a bustling train station, and original City Hall. With the decline of urban investment in the mid-20th century, some of these old landmarks were demolished. However, through both private and public development over the last 30 years, today's Penn Quarter is once again a bustling destination.

Learn about the enterprising reuse of Penn Quarter's historic buildings, recent design investment, and contemporary additions to this diverse neighborhood in the center of the city.

Where to Meet
The tour will begin and end at the District Architecture Center
GPS Address: 421 7th Street NW

What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoes, bottled water and comfortable clothes are recommended!

Sights and stops include:
- The Landsburg
- National Archives
- FBI Headquarters
- Old City Hall
- National Building Museum
- Capitol One Arena
- Friendship Archway
- City Center
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library
- Woodward and Lothrop Building
- Ford's Theater
- National Portrait Gallery
- Hotel Monaco

Learning Objectives:

• Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Penn Quarter and trace its evolution from the past to the present.
• Identify key landmarks and points of interest in the neighborhood and gain insights into their historical importance and contemporary relevance.
• Develop an understanding of one community's unique identity and ongoing revitalization efforts.
• Reflect on the significance and successes of urban development in shaping the character of Penn Quarter.

In partnership with DC Design Tours

Hear the stories behind our best loved and little-known museums on the Mall!

Washington’s famous plethora of museums are all laid out along the east side of the National Mall between the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Called “America’s Attic,” the Smithsonian Institution is one of the largest museum organizations in the world, with 30 million annual visitors, 19 museums and over 140 million items in the collection. On this tour, explore how the Smithsonian Institution has helped shape the fabric of the National Mall since 1847, with grand buildings, secret gardens, and both beloved and reviled designs.

Please note we’ll be discussing the museums from the exterior, with the exception of the National Gallery of Art, which we will briefly go inside!

What to Bring

Sturdy walking shoes, bottled water and comfortable clothes are recommended!

Where to Meet

• Meet your guide outside the Smithsonian Castle
• GPS Address: 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560
• Your tour will end at the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial

Sights and stops include:

• Smithsonian Castle & Garden
• James V. Forrestal Building (Dept of Energy)
• Arts and Industries Building
• Hirshhorn Museum
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Gallery of Art (inside and out!)
• National Museum of the American Indian
• United States Botanic Garden
• United States Capitol Building

Learning Objectives:

• Identify key landmarks and historical structures in our Nation's capital, and gain insights into their importance in American History.
• Reflect on the significance of these buildings in the urbanization of the surrounding National Mall area in Washington, DC.
• Understand the preservation efforts required to maintain these buildings, some of which are as old as 1855.
• Describe the structural style differences between the observed buildings, as it applies to the architecture period in which they were built.

In partnership with DC Design Tours

The thought of lowering your carbon footprint and doing good for the environment can seem overwhelming at first. In this talk Jaime will present 10 strategies for tackling this challenge at home and will provide resources for creating your own personal decarbonization roadmap. You will walk away feeling empowered with the knowledge and tools to get started!

Jaime Van Mourik, Associate AIA, LEED AP, is the director of the U.S. Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready Home program in addition to serving as the Zero Energy Design Designation lead for the DOE Building Technologies Office. Each day she is working toward a zero carbon emissions future for all homes.

Jaime is passionate about educating people of all ages about the impacts of the built environment on their lives. She believes that providing knowledge and opportunities for action will result in true transformation. Prior to coming to DOE, she served as the vice-president for education solutions at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) where she led a team to create and deploy education solutions for every learner whether that be a young child, a student pursuing a post-secondary degree or a professional looking to advance in their career path. She collaborated with higher education institutions and advocates across the country to develop and deliver innovative learning platforms that integrate sustainability and green building concepts into curriculum and create pathways to professional credentials. She has extensive experience leading colleges and universities looking to “go green,” guiding them through the planning and implementation process and advising on how the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system can help shape sustainability initiatives in teaching, research and practice.

She holds a bachelor's degree in architecture from Virginia Tech and master's in architectural history from the University of Virginia and teaches part-time at The Catholic University of America.

Continuing our successful series from 2023, join us for Business Development 201: Building Your Base.

Our panel of industry leaders will discuss their strategies for building a network that leads to opportunity. We will focus on the critical components of business development to help mid-career architects advance to the next level of firm leadership. We encourage all attendees to invite an industry colleague to attend a Networking Happy Hour after the panel so you can begin practicing your newly learned business development skills!

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how you can begin your network of connections that will lead to business opportunities.
• Identify tools to create your own approach to business development.
• Summarize ways to nuture relationships when project work isn't happening.
• Analyze ways that these efforts can be translated into internal office advocacy and promotion.
   

Presented by: 

Philip Dickinson, Senior Director, Cushman & Wakefield

Philip Dickinson is a Senior Director at Cushman & Wakefield focused on Landlord and Tenant Representation across the DMV. Phil previously served as the Director of Office Leasing at Washington REIT, managing the company’s 2.7 million square foot Washington, DC and Suburban Maryland office portfolio. His prior stops at the Wiley Companies, ProLogis, and Archstone-Smith covered all facets of the real estate field including due diligence, sales, development, and acquisitions. Phil lives in Washington DC with his wife Emily Dickinson (HKS Architects), and two daughers, Alice and Charlotte. 

Rob Holzbach, FAIA, Principal, Director of Commercial Office, Hickok Cole

Rob’s career took off upon joining Hickok Cole in 2004. He rose through the ranks as an architect and designer before setting his sights on firm leadership and ultimately landing his current role as Principal and Director of Commercial Architecture. He embraces our Work that Matters mindset and believes every project should add value beyond expectations; for the owner and end users, as much as for the local neighborhood and broader community. Rob extends that commitment to maintaining and improving our unique culture, having been responsible for recruitment and retention for over a decade. Today, he works with the DEI Council and represents leadership as a general advisor on and champion of its initiatives. Rob is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) College of Fellows -one of the highest honors bestowed by the AIA upon its members. Rob’s favorite way to unwind is with his wife, son, and two high-energy Weimaraners, trekking through the woods or playing in the backyard. After that, a gin martini wouldn’t hurt—straight up, with a twist… stirred, not shaken.

Laura Kilpatrick, Industry Manager, Whiting Turner

Laura Kilpatrick is a Senior Industry Coordinator at The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, based in Greenbelt, Maryland. In her role, she is responsible for coordinating various industry-related activities and projects, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication within the company. Laura has a strong background in the construction industry and has been a key player in managing and supporting large-scale projects.

Elizabeth Ward, Marketing Manager, Quinn Evans

Elizabeth Ward has worked in marketing and design in various capacities throughout her multi-faceted career spanning the agency world to the present day AEC industry. After earning a Masters in Interior Design from the Corcoran College of Art and Design, she gained experience on the technical side before transitioning back to marketing. Elizabeth feels building and maintaining relationships is critical not only for project success but also for winning future work.

Organized by:

ACEL Committee

Sponsored by: 

Whiting Turner 

POSTPONED: NEW DATE FORTHCOMING

This presentation delves into the crucial role of roofing in enhancing overall building sustainability. Participants will gain comprehensive insights into a variety of environmentally friendly materials, products, and systems designed to boost eco-efficiency. The session will cover the characteristics of sustainable and resilient roof systems and the key design considerations that contribute to their durability and longevity. Additionally, it will highlight the financial advantages of investing in sustainable roofing solutions. By the end of this presentation, attendees will be equipped to:

Understand the integral role of roofing and the building envelope in achieving building sustainability.
Review a range of eco-friendly materials, products, and systems.
Identify key features of sustainable and resilient roofing designs.
Evaluate the financial benefits and cost-effectiveness of sustainable building practices.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss roofing and building envelope’s role in overall building sustainability
• Review of environmentally friendly materials, products, and systems
• Identify features of sustainable and resilient design
• Weigh the financial benefits of building sustainably

Presented by:

David S. Finley, CEP

Dave Finley is the Director of Building Envelope Sciences at The Garland Company, Inc. and Design Build Solutions Inc., specializing in building enclosure design and forensic assessments. With 14 years of experience, his expertise includes hygrothermal analyses, water intrusion investigations, and building code compliance. Previously, Dave worked as a Facade Specialist at Morrison Hershfield and a Senior Associate at Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. He holds degrees in Architectural Engineering from Pennsylvania State University and is a Certified Infrared Thermographer and EIFS Professional. Dave also contributes to the Building Enclosure Council and ASHRAE committees.

Fallon Williams

Fallon Williams, Architectural Territory Manager at The Garland Company, assists architectural firms with building envelope solutions in the DC, MD, & VA area. Having over 17 years of professional expertise, Fallon Williams is a dynamic figure in architecture & design. Complimenting her technical experience, Fallon has a background in marketing offering a unique perspective rooted in both education and extensive industry experience. With a portfolio spanning nationwide projects, Fallon has contributed to hundreds of commercial projects, serving and supporting customers as an industry technical expert.

Beyond her professional achievements, Fallon is deeply committed to service. She presently holds the position of Director of Communications for the National Organization of Minority Architects – Baltimore Chapter and Chair at AIA Baltimore Allied Members Committee. Through these roles, she actively participates in outreach, community engagement, and volunteering while enhancing communication, membership opportunities, and fostering collaboration within the industry. With an impressive track record, Fallon Williams exemplifies the transformative power of dedication, innovation, and community engagement.

Organized by:

The Garland Company

Decorative Films is a leading global manufacturer of decorative privacy window film in Frederick, MD. In this course, Decorative Films' marketing manager Courtney Belew will review the various ways in which window film can improve workplace wellness by addressing common health, safety, sustainability, and wellness concerns in building specifications. The course will also explore how window films can serve as a cost-effective solution to common building requirements and desirable architectural design elements that contribute to the safety, security, and sustainability of a new or retrofitted building project.

Discover the innovative applications of decorative privacy window films and their potential benefits for employees, employers, and building owners as we review how they can positively impact workplace health, safety, and wellness.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore the advantages of designing workspaces with an emphasis on health, safety, and well-being.
• Observe design solutions that enhance the functionality of the workplace environment while optimizing durability, sustainability, and functionality.
• Identify glass film products that promote workplace safety and wellness through their design benefits.
• Utilize the provided information to specify window film for new and retrofit projects that contribute to workplace wellness. This includes improving building security, energy efficiency, solar reduction, bird collision prevention, and privacy solutions.

Presented by: 

Courtney Belew

Marketing Manager 

Courtney Belew joined Decorative Films as a marketing manager in 2023, bringing over 12 years of experience in corporate retail marketing to the team. Her main focus is to drive company growth by building a network of resources to make window film specifying easier and more accessible to architects and designers.

Aaron Lotinsky

Director of Product & Sales

Aaron joined the Decorative Films team in 2012 and currently serves as the company’s Product and Sales Director. Over the years, he has collaborated with numerous architects and designers to create custom window films for corporate spaces. His passion for transforming the way we look at glass has fueled the development of new and innovative window film solutions that enhance our surroundings while effectively solving real-world problems.

Organized by: 

Decorative Films
 

Join CNU-DC for a tour of Baltimore City’s Hope VI Housing Projects!

With walking tours led by professionals at Torti Gallas + Partners

Saturday, July 27th

Depart:   9:15am - from Union Station DC
Arrive:    10:15am - Meet at Mother Mary Lange Catholic School (Baltimore attendees meet here)
              10:40am - The Terraces & Heritage Crossing
              11:30am - Pleasant View Gardens 
              12:20pm - Albermarle Square 
              1:10pm - Lunch @ Attman's in Albemarle Square  
Return:   2:40pm - Depart from Attmans, drop Baltimore attendees at Mother Mary Lange
              4:00pm - Arrive back at Union Station DC

Not long ago, the periphery of downtown Baltimore was marked by tower-in-the-park public housing. The HOPE VI program, introduced by HUD in 1992, enabled the redevelopment of these failed experiments into human-scaled, mixed-income neighborhoods. The then-fledgling New Urbanist movement exerted an outsized influence on the HOPE VI program and on the built environment of central Baltimore.

The tour will be led by professionals from Torti Gallas + Partners, the firm that designed three of the HOPE VI projects on the program (and many more elsewhere). CNU-DC is excited to extend its programming to Baltimore, and we hope you will jump on this exciting opportunity to explore and learn about HOPE VI from the experts.

A bus will be available for transport to and from DC's Union Station, and between the four project sites. The tour will culminate with an opportunity to buy lunch at Attman's Delicatessen, a classic Jewish deli east of downtown.

LA.IDEA Monthly Committee Meeting 

6:30 - 8:00 PM

KGD Architecture 

1101 15th Street NW 

Suite 200

Washington, DC 20005

Put on your summer whites and join us for a unique chance to mingle with industry experts, colleagues, and friends. Enjoy refreshing food and drink, stimulating conversations, lux prizes, and more. 

Selecting the appropriate air/water barrier system for your specific project and unique conditions is not always an obvious choice. A wide variety of issues must be considered in order to make the proper selection. This course will discuss the basics of air/water barriers from different manufacturer’s representatives from the DMV area, including Henry Company, Soprema, and Tremco. This presentation will discuss air/water barrier design considerations and strategies, materials, and critical coordination items.

5:30pm - Check In
6:00pm to 7:00pm - Roundtable and Q&A
7:00pm onwards - Networking

Presented by: 

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Jason Flynn
Vice President, Business Development, RoofPro Inc.
Jason works closely with all channels within the commercial construction industry and discussions related to the manufacturing partners represented by RoofPro Inc. Having an emphasis on support of the design community, he provides assistance related to the building envelope specifications from below-grade waterproofing systems to single-ply roof assemblies. With over 20 years of experience, he brings passion and excitement to an ever changing construction landscape. He is an active member of the IIBEC Mid-Atlantic Chapter and Mid-Atlantic Roofing Contractors Association.
 

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Matthew Renz
Tremco Territory Sales Virginia
For the late twenty-five tears I have worked in Washington D.C, Virginia, and Maryland markets in the technical sales field in the construction industry. This time has included working in commercial and residential sectors as technical sales resource and project manager specific to application of products.

 

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Brian Baker
PPSI
Brian has been working in the construction products industry for over 30 years, with nearly all of that focusing on how to keep water out of the built environment. Using his experience at multiple manufacturers specializing in different technologies, he works with design and construction teams to help ensure the building envelope remains intact not only through construction, but also through the working life of the building. Brian focuses primarily on below grade waterproofing, air barriers, roofing, and expansion joints, using a systems approach to ensure all of these components work together.
 

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Brian Radigan

Brian Radigan is the Territory Sales Manager for Tremco within the DC/MD/VA market. He is a dedicated waterproofing/restoration professional with 10 years’ experience as a contractor and another 10 years within the sales end of the trade. His responsibilities include training, supporting, and partnering with a network of Weatherproofing Contractors, Designers and Distribution Partners within the market. He also spends time working with builders and architects helping them build/design drier, more energy- buildings with industry leading brands of foundation waterproofing, liquid-applied air & water barrier products

Learning Objectives: 

• Compare contemporary air/water barrier systems and identify factors that influence system selection.
• Identify coordination challenges associated with various trades prior to air/water barrier installation.
• Understand complexities with tying air/water barrier systems into adjacent enclosure systems.
• Summarize recent advancements in air/water barrier technology, research, and development.

Organized by: 

Building Enclosure Council (BEC)