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When I was in architecture school I had a professor, Udo Kultermann, who was legendary for his encyclopedic knowledge of world architecture. As one would expect of a resident authority on architectural history, he knew everything about Byzantine, Medieval, Gothic, Greek Revival and all the rest of the significant architectural periods and styles as well as all of the important figures throughout the course of history which was impressive, but nowhere near as impressive is his comprehensive knowledge of contemporary architecture.

Recently, I was asked to speak at AIA Minnesota’s Innovative Practice Forum on the topic of Owner’s Advocates and Partnerships.  When I was preparing my talk, I wanted the audience to have a light bulb moment about how to create lasting and meaningful partnerships with clients.  In truth, it’s not that complicated. 

I've been told I can be kind of a font snob. I'll admit it. I am. I have a copy of the movie Helvetica at home. Yes, it’s a movie about a font.  And no, I don't think that's weird.  Well, maybe not too weird…

Recently, I attended a conference at the University of Cincinnati on Surfaces.  The conference was put together to honor Jay Chatterjee the former dean of the College of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning (DAAP) and the orchestrator of UC’s Campus Master Plan and building renaissance (not to mention one of my own planning professors).  Many of the signature architects responsible for various new and renovated buildings attended the conference including Peter Eisenman and Michael Graves.   Eisenman was responsible for redesign and expansion of the DAAP building where the conference was held. 

For weeks now the Obama campaign has been running an ad about 1M auto industry jobs saved.  It’s an effective ad, but every time I see it I can’t help but think about the struggles in the building design and construction industry.  One million jobs saved, but how many jobs lost?  The ad also says […]

If you’re involved in the design of public higher education facilities you’re well aware of the funding challenges facing all capital projects. But are you aware that Ohio colleges are transitioning from an enrollment based funding model to an achievement based funding model? This will affect every publicly funded higher education institution in the state, […]