Are you aware that Mattel’s Barbie® I Can Be™ series came out with Architect Barbie? The doll came with a drawing tube, a model of the Dream House, and hardhat in 2011. She was accessorized with a pink bangle bracelet and black framed glasses. She wore black booties and an A-line dress complete with the silhouette of a skyline at the hem. What can’t Barbie do? Throughout history we find many women defined what it means to be female and an Architect.
THE ARCHITECTURE OF LOVE
I would recommend visiting the Chapel in the Hills when you’re in the area and considering it for your nuptial destination. We will look back fondly on our wedding day and the place that made it extra special. What a cool cultural replica right in our backyard!
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIVERSITY IN DESIGN
Architects and engineers have worked together throughout history. These successes could not have been achieved without collaboration and working through differing perspectives and opinions.
Architectural Abbreviations
Has anyone else noticed the abundance of firm names containing initials within the architecture community? I’m sure you have. In addition to abbreviating names, Architects have their own shorthand that can often alienate our clients and general public. Some are common sense or intuitive while others are not. Today we’d like to translate some for …
The State of Architecture in Our State
South Dakota Summer 2022 It’s July and we are in the throws of construction in South Dakota. I can’t help but notice the cranes and in-progress buildings as I drive through Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. Construction is booming on the eastside of the state, and I’m sure it’s no different in the west. …
12 Days of Christmas (the Architect’s Edition)
Enjoy a fun take on a traditional Christmas song! Happy Holidays!
Labor Day: Then vs. Now
Happy Labor Day! I associate many things with this holiday; the transition from summer to fall, school in full swing, a long weekend, great sales, and can’t wear white until Easter to name a few. I don’t think I’m alone in forgetting to pause and recognize the significance of the history of the holiday. I …
Independence Day Thoughts on Architecture
As the Fourth of July approaches, I challenge you to reflect on our nation’s history. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Acknowledge the triumphs and shortcomings of our nation. Remember how we the people have and can continue to learn and grow. Pause and appreciate those that came before (in all their imperfection) who fought to preserve our inalienable rights. We are blessed and we will overcome the challenges. We are a resilient nation of people who hold different backgrounds and beliefs; however, we are united by our shared value of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Let freedom ring and continue to pursue equality!
Graduating in the face of a Pandemic
On Friday, May 8th at 5:30 pm, I joined 80+ friends, family, faculty, area professionals, and graduates for SDSU DoArch’s 2020 Graduation Ceremony via zoom. There was an informal sense as Brian Rex, Department Head and Associate Professor, pointed out a few people reclining as they watched.
AIA Publishes K-12 Architecture Resources
The AIA National has added a new feature to their website. The organization reviews K-12 architecture resources and activities and posts them on their website. There are activities, videos, interactive programs, and career information. My favorite is #askanarchitect that directs you to youtube and features several interviews.