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.
Since graduating from Kansas State in 2012, Liz has gained experience from a variety of fields within the building industry. From drafting at a metal building manufacturer to working at architecture firms to assisting a real estate broker/developer, she has always had a passion for influencing the built environment. As an architect at Schemmer, Liz enjoys learning new things and refining her skills with help from other licensed professionals. She hopes to continue to shape the spaces and places around her in a positive way.
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.
Resiliency Revisted: AIA Spring Membership Meeting & SDSU AIAS Contribution
The last AIA Convention’s theme was rural resiliency. At that time, we didn’t know the challenges we have faced the last month or so. I keep coming back to the idea though. I have hope that our state will bounce back. Midwesterners are known for their toughness and ability to weather the storms: their resiliency. This year’s spring meeting was evidence of that attitude. The plan was to hold the meeting in Brookings hosted by SDSU’s chapter of AIAS. The students had put time and thought into an informative agenda. Social distancing changed plans.
Input Needed : SD Architect Collects Data About Architecture & Social Distancing
A South Dakota architect in Yankton, Sarah Mannes Homstad is conducting a study during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study is in response to the evolving needs of our communities and questions about what it means, architecturally-speaking, to inhabit our world today. Mannes Homstad asked herself the following questions: What is changing about the way we…