AIA Los Angeles’ Post

blink!LAB architecture is a design and research practice that believes the most radical thing to do, is to advocate for change through the economic engine of beauty.  We are a SBE, MBE, WBE and 2019 YBCA100 HONOREE and 2020 CEDAW Human Rights Awardee. Contact: June A. Grant, Principal l jgrant@blink-lab.com l There are 116,242 registered architects in the US.  Only 570 are African-American women. KEY:  #ACADIA #RepresentationMatters #SFNOMA #ALLinforNOMA #NOMA #InclusionMatters #blackgeographies #blackspaces #usarchitectsdeclare #architectsdeclare #architecture #climate #climateemergency #climateandbiodiversityemergency #climatechange #declaration #justice #socialjustice #sustainability #sustainabilitymatters #PlanHealthyCommunities #DesignHealthyCommunities #InvestForHealthyCommunities #BuildHealthyCommunities #LiveInHealthyCommunities #OAKLibrary #HooverBranchLIbrary2023

Visit FAME collective’s RIBA Exhibition “Exposing the Barriers in Architecture, from a FAME (Female Architects of Minority Ethnic) Perspective.” RIBA Library, 66 Portland Place, London W1B 1AD EXHIBITION DESIGN This exhibition design was led and curated by Tumpa Husna Yasmin Fellows, founder of FAME collective, and co-created by FAME collective. The exhibition documents FAME collective’s research projects, communicating underrepresented voices and the lived-experiences of barriers in architecture. Mapping the pathways to success, how to navigate the barriers and providing valuable recommendations for those experiencing barriers and those in power to make a change. The design of the central and the primary exhibit has been influenced by the ‘feminine embodiment practice’, from the concept of the Nakshi Kantha (traditional Bangladeshi diaspora embroidery technique). The concept involves re-using layers of recycled fabric and diverse materials, used to co-design the ‘pathways to success in architecture’, by delving into the narratives of the lived experiences of the barriers, from a FAME perspective.

This article highlights the importance of diversity in architecture and the challenges that the field faces in achieving it. It also discusses some of the initiatives that are underway to address these challenges, such as outreach programs and scholarships. #autodesk #architecture #diversity #inclusion #equity

Visit FAME collective’s RIBA Exhibition “Exposing the Barriers in Architecture, from a FAME (Female Architects of Minority Ethnic) Perspective.” RIBA Library, 66 Portland Place, London W1B 1AD EXHIBITION DESIGN This exhibition design was led and curated by Tumpa Husna Yasmin Fellows, founder of FAME collective, and co-created by FAME collective. The exhibition documents FAME collective’s research projects, communicating underrepresented voices and the lived-experiences of barriers in architecture. Mapping the pathways to success, how to navigate the barriers and providing valuable recommendations for those experiencing barriers and those in power to make a change. The design of the central and the primary exhibit has been influenced by the ‘feminine embodiment practice’, from the concept of the Nakshi Kantha (traditional Bangladeshi diaspora embroidery technique). The concept involves re-using layers of recycled fabric and diverse materials, used to co-design the ‘pathways to success in architecture’, by delving into the narratives of the lived experiences of the barriers, from a FAME perspective. Setting up the exhibition provided a unique opportunity for collaboration, dialogue and most importantly the building of relationships and friendships within the team. RESEARCH PROCESS The research is explored through an intersectional feminist lens to amplify the underrepresented voices in architecture. Conducted through a range of participatory methods and by engaging with the community of practitioners and students of architecture. Therefore, directly challenging institutions such as the RIBA, Architects Registration Board (ARB), universities and practices, by disseminating the findings and evidence-based research. FAME collective’s research dissemination led to ARB's recent policy changes, to remove the policy barriers in architecture by increasing access to the architecture profession for a wider demographic. Ultimately, this research acts as a tool for activism; and highlights systemic inequities in architecture by documenting the lived experiences' narrative as a valuable form of research tool. #exposingbarriersinarchitecture #famecollective #riba #equity

CALL FOR PAPERS Special Issue: “Gender and Architecture in the Islamic World: Restrictions, Reactions, and Actions” Proposal submission deadline: June 15, 2024 Real and imagined spaces are inherently gendered based on widely accepted heteronormative and patriarchal ways of living, thereby affecting how buildings and cities are accessed, used, and experienced. Moreover, spatial practices associated with such heteronormative and gender binary systems impact design ideas that shape the built environment. The imposition of traditional gender roles in architecture from patriarchal and heteronormative views affect urban policy making, architectural education, and decision making in the building and transformation of cities. Even the word ‘architect’ was and still is often gendered both in historical and contemporary perceptions of the society due to the male-dominated professional field despite the involvement and contributions of women in the transformation of the built environment for centuries. Hence, space and gender are intrinsically linked and mutually construct one another. Against these complex yet urgent ongoing questions, this special issue of the International Journal of Islamic Architecture aims to interrogate the relation between gender and architecture focusing on feminist, queer, non-binary, and trans perspectives with an interdisciplinary approach from the past and present. However, in order to have a nuanced understanding of diverse dynamics shaping spaces and spatial practices, contributions will need to have an intersectional approach encompassing race, sexuality, age, disability, class, religion, and ethnicity. Moreover, studies must derive from specific social, cultural, and political contexts and localities to prevent essentialist approaches to Islamic and diasporic communities.   This special issue raises questions around three themes: restrictions, reactions, and actions. On the one hand, while looking at gender history to see the restrictions imposed on various marginalised groups through socio-political structures and institutions, it is crucial to avoid victimising them by also underscoring their reactions, resistance, and attempts to reclaim their rights. On the other hand, it is equally important to show how marginalised and racialized groups took these rejections of heteronormative and patriarchal power dynamics as a starting point to build alternative communities based on their spatial experiences and embodied creative design ideas and practices. The purpose of this threefold approach is to have a well-rounded and nuanced grasp of the role of gender in architecture beyond passive and top-down narratives.   [...]   Please send a title and 400-word abstract to guest editor, Gül Kale, Carleton University (IJIAgender@gmail.com), by June 15, 2024. Authors of proposals will be contacted by July 30, 2024, and may be requested to submit full article drafts for consideration by January 30, 2025.

An important new book challenges the architectural community to embrace inclusivity and champion diversity, writes Kudzai Matsvai. "After reading this book, I can only deduce that anyone claiming to be unaware of the inequities facing any marginalised group moving through or affected by our profession has chosen a stance of willful ignorance because the facts, figures, and first-person accounts are all right there. They do not just live in this book, either, but are also in the everyday lives of our colleagues, students, and even ourselves, we just have to be willing to listen. "Inclusion Emergency must become part of the pantheon of essential texts to be read by everyone as they move through the profession. Although we still have a long way to go in our journey to an inclusive profession, we will one day look back at this publication as a definitive turning point in that journey." #architecture #diversity #inclusion RIBA Publishing Grace Choi https://lnkd.in/e-5rhFKa

Alhamdullilah for another publication in TIJER- INTERNATIONAL PEER REVIEWED JOURNAL Abstract: The intricate relationship between architecture and social inclusion, reveals architecture's transformative potential within diverse urban environments and transcends architecture's traditional role as a creator of physical spaces by showcasing its capacity as a catalyst for societal transformation. Through case studies like the National September 11 Memorial & Museum and the Bosco Verticale, this research paper illustrates how architectural design can break down physical and psychological barriers, promoting unity and shared humanity. It emphasizes the essential role of inclusive architectural design in shaping environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds not only coexist but thrive, enriching their quality of life. Additionally, the study recognizes social inclusion as a multifaceted concept, encompassing equitable access to resources, opportunities, and rights, serving as a powerful tool to combat inequality, discrimination, and marginalization, thereby fostering a sense of belonging and well-being for all members of society. Looking ahead, future research paper directions at the intersection of architecture and social inclusion include the development of comprehensive metrics and methodologies to assess the impact of architectural design on inclusivity. Cross-cultural studies will inform universal design principles, emphasizing accessibility and universal design, particularly for individuals with disabilities. The research paper will delve into the psychological and social impacts of design elements, sustainability integration, and the effectiveness of community engagement processes. Shifting the focus to multiculturalism within Indian urban environments, this study highlights the dynamic interplay of challenges and opportunities. India's rich cultural diversity introduces complexities such as cultural tensions, social segregation, economic disparities, and language barriers. Addressing these challenges requires constructive dialogues and evidence-based policies to combat discrimination and disparities. Conversely, embracing the opportunities arising from multiculturalism enriches urban culture, vitality, and innovation. Architecture plays a pivotal role in accommodating and celebrating diverse cultural practices, reflecting the dynamic interplay of cultures within urban landscapes. This research paper illuminates the transformative potential of architectural design in urban landscapes, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and sustained research paper to harness architecture's power for creating more inclusive, equitable, and harmonious urban environments. It contributes significantly to the discourse on architecture's impact on society, paving the way for a more inclusive and united future. https://lnkd.in/dnHdqiS6 #researchpaper #socialwork #Islamicarchitecture #socialinclusion #peaceandprosperity

Spitzer School of Architecture's Dean Marta Gutman is featured in Notes on Progress: Sixteen Women Discuss What It Means To Be Female in Architecture School in Archinect. ⁠ The article highlights the changing landscape for women in architecture schools, with female deans leading prestigious institutions like Harvard, Yale, and CCNY. Despite challenges, their impact resonates in architectural education worldwide. Archinect explores what has changed and what still needs improvement for women in architecture, shedding light on disparities in academia and the profession. It's clear there's much work ahead, but voices like Dean Marta Gutman's are paving the way for progress.⁠ ⁠ Please find the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e3g_PeSv ⁠ Image: (top row, from left) Peggy Deamer, Elizabeth Christoforetti, Marta Gutman, Catherine Chattergoon, Rychiee Espinosa, Lori Brown, Angela Lufkin, Samantha Agostinelli, (bottom row) Eva Franch i Gilabert, Miray Celikkol, Gabrielle Esperdy, Tanvi Singh, Catherine Moreno, Erin Kasimow, Kriti Malik, and Anne Nixon. Image from Archinect. ⁠ ⁠ #SpitzerSchoolOfArchitecture #SpitzerSchool #Architecture #StudyArchitecture #ArchitectureStudents #ArchiStudents #CCNY #LandscapeArchitecture #NYC #NewYork #StudyInNYC #Design #Education⁠ ⁠

A brilliant piece from Sinead McAteer on supporting gender diversity within the architecture profession. Click the post below to find the full interview!

🚀I had the pleasure of sharing my story and discuss how Archtivism came to be in an interview by Julia Gamolina for Madame Architect. ❤️It was a special moment for me, diving into my journey from childhood and architecture school as well as the origins of Archtivism and discussing its mission. Read the interview to discover: 🌍How my ‘nomadic’ childhood growing up in different places and countries enriched my worldview, fostering and fueled by my passion for architecture sparked a focus on empathy-driven impact 💪Some personal lessons, what I’m most excited about and who I’m admiring at the moment ⭐Where frustration with traditional education birthed the concept of Archtivism, advocating for system change,  innovation and inclusivity. ✊Addressing social equity, environmental strategies, circular economy, technological integration, and entrepreneurial innovation through the Five Points of Archtivism. 🛑Challenging 'Reference Man' and overcoming biases in design and within workplace culture and advocating for inclusivity in architecture. 🧭Some lessons I’ve learned and my career advice to follow your inner compass, not a predefined map. Forge a path aligned with your purpose and values, embracing challenges and contributing to positive change. .. 💬“As a Black, queer, and petite woman, I stand in contrast to ‘Reference Man,’ making daring to be myself and challenging the status quo a triumph, albeit a challenging aspect of my career.” 💬“Career paths are by no means linear—they’re squiggly and dynamic, much like life itself. So take some pressure off yourself a little.” #archtivism #architecture #architect #builtenvironment #sustainability #inclusion