BLUEPRINT
FEATURING
DANNY MCGINNIS, AIA








What a relief, the heat of July seems to be giving way to a (slightly) cooler August. Fall in the desert and my favorite time of year, college football season, is right around the corner I’m looking forward to cooler nights and time on the patio for my evening down time Taking time to unpack the day and setting a clean slate is one way that I keep a work – life balance For those of you that know me, I’m sure you are thinking yeh, right but I do carve out time for myself and my family as a way to avoid dreaded burn out and to stay energized. I hope you all have an opportunity to take a moment to enjoy the end of summer on a daily and weekly basis.
I’m pleased to report that we are making progress on our goal of creating a 501(c)(3) foundation This
new entity will provide a non-profit vehicle that will facilitate your ability to make tax deductible contributions to scholarship funds. These funds will create opportunity for future architecture students that my not otherwise be able to pursue their dream of enrolling in the university Selfishly, the agenda is geared towards building our future workforce Unselfishly, the impact is far greater on the lives of the individuals that will win those scholarships and realize their dreams Please stay tuned for more information about the foundation in the coming weeks and months In the meantime, there are still ways to contribute to AIA LV and firm sponsored scholarships. If you are interested, please let me know or reach out to the AIA LV office.
I would be remiss if I did not mention the election No, I’m not talking about November 4th I’m referring to the upcoming AIA Board of Directors elections The nomination and sign-up process has closed so you will soon be seeing the slate of candidates Please take the time to review their biographies and goals for AIA in 2025 Elections will take place virtually from August 1st through August 16th. Please be on the lookout and vote!
We have another month ahead of us packed with opportunities to network and earn those CEUs. The Urban
Sketchers will be gathering at “UnCommons” on Saturday, August 10th. Or you might prefer to join the small firm exchange virtually for Coffee Chat on Tuesday, August 13th. The Placemaking Committee has been building up to their summit, “Building Healthy Places” on August 21, 2004 Last but not least, the EPYAF Firm Crawl Series will be visiting us here at MOSER architecture studio on August 29th
As always, I’m here to help if you are looking for opportunities to engage
Regards,
Troy D. Moser, AIA
10 URBAN SKETCHERS “UNCOMMONS” 9:00 AM 13 SFX VIRTUAL COFFEE CHAT 8:00 AM PLACEMAKING SUMMIT
PM
Troy D. Moser, AIA President Moser Architecture
Wellbe Bartsma, AIA EP Director Gensler
Alexia Chen, AIA President-Elect LGA Architecture
Daniel Chenin, AIA Director Daniel Joseph Chenin, Ltd.
Teresa Mears, AIA Secretary LGA Architecture
Quyen Luu, AIA Treasurer Gensler
Victoria Cousino, AIA Director KNIT
Melvin Green, AIA Director KME Architects
Kim S. Galbe, Assoc. AIA Director EV&A Architects
Jeffrey Sarmiento, AIA Director Carpenter Sellers Del Gatto Architects
James Horvath, AIA Past-President BW&A
Carlos D. Fernandez Executive Director AIA Nevada | AIA Las
I am a member of AIA because... I value the power of professional connections, and being part of the AIA enables me to engage with fellow architects, engineers, students, industry leaders, and allied members who share my enthusiasm for our field. Hailing from South Dakota and a proud graduate of North Dakota State University (Go Bison!), my first encounter with Las Vegas was through the late John Klai, FAIA. He generously sponsored 19 other students and me to attend the 2005 AIA convention during my junior year in college This experience sparked my passion for the profession, the vibrant Las Vegas community, and the AIA chapter It also taught me the invaluable lesson of nurturing professional relationships early in my career With 18 years of work experience in architecture, I have been fortunate to witness the positive impacts of this profession on my life As a small-town boy from South Dakota, the transition to living and working in Las Vegas as an architect has significantly broadened my perspective on life's possibilities
This evolution has inspired me to guide and empower future architects to strive for similar growth and transformation I want to show aspiring architects that with dedication and passion, they, too, can break boundaries, expand their horizons, and make a meaningful impact in architecture. I am committed to fostering an environment where aspiring architects can thrive, innovate, and contribute to the architectural landscape in their unique ways.
How would you introduce yourself to the world as an architect?
As an Associate Principal, Architect, and Federal Studio Leader at Knit, I am privileged to lead a team of talented
professionals daily A passionate team with shared goals and a collaborative spirit can achieve incredible feats My role is an opportunity to serve and empower the team to bring out their best, from meticulously tending to the most minor details to confidently tackling the most significant challenges that come our way. Looking ahead, I envision a fulfilling career in architecture, ownership of a firm, and collaboration with a team of committed professionals dedicated to their work and actively involved in their communities I am passionate about approaching daily life with purpose and kindness and want to inspire others to do the same One of my most recent achievements is receiving the "North Star Award" from the Boy Scouts of America for my distinguished service to the scouting program I am
proud to have collaborated with diverse groups, including design professionals, stakeholders, and volunteers, to transform the Donald Reynolds Scouting Resource Center into "Base Camp Las Vegas " Through our collective efforts, we not only created a new indoor climbing wall, an Esports lounge, and a Makerspace focused on STEM activities but also made a positive and lasting impact on our community
How do you anticipate the architectural landscape transforming over the next 10 years?
As we look ahead to the next ten years, the architectural landscape is primed for significant transformation With the emphasis from Zoomers and Generation Alpha on healthy and sustainable lifestyles, there will be a strong focus on designing buildings that promote human well-being and address mental health The AIA 2030 Challenge and new energy conservation codes will drive a resurgence of sustainable projects This shift towards environmentally conscious living will spill into architecture and impact climate and biodiversity considerations
One notable trend shaping the architectural landscape is the positive impact of introducing plant materials within buildings Research has shown the numerous benefits of biophilic design, blending the interior and exterior environments to create spaces that promote well-being and harmony with nature. In essence, the next decade is poised to bring about a fundamental transformation in architectural practices, focusing on creating spaces that function efficiently and contribute to the health and happiness of their inhabitants
What advice would you offer to aspiring architects aiming to follow in your footsteps?
Embrace redlines! Don't let a "bloody" set of drawings defeat you Redlines are one of our industry's best teaching opportunities and communication tools Learn to grow from them; no one is out to humiliate you or look down upon your work More importantly, take ownership of them, and as you develop your skills, redlines will be less and less, and items that were once an issue are now lessons learned in the past. Embracing redlines will help you improve and develop as an architect, and eventually, you will see them as invaluable learning experiences rather than setbacks. Understanding and accepting this process will encourage your professional growth and enhance the quality of your work in the long run
Can you share with us an architectural work that has deeply resonated with you and explain why it is so significant?
During my transformative journey studying abroad in Western Europe, I had the extraordinary privilege of being enveloped in the captivating world of architectural marvels One structure, the Jubilee Church, designed by the renowned architect Richard Meier, left an indelible mark on my heart and mind Nestled amidst the urban landscape outside the historic city walls of Rome, this breathtaking all-white contemporary church stood as a testament to timeless beauty and profound symbolism.
As I sketched the intricate details of the
Jubilee Church, I marveled at the fusion of form and meaning the three majestic concrete shells gracefully embodying the concept of the holy trinity, the serene reflecting pool serving as a poignant symbol of Baptism, and the carefully positioned window orchestrating a divine interplay of light and shadow, culminating in the illuminating of the crucifix on Easter Sunday In that transcendent moment, I was deeply moved by the fusion of art, faith, and architectural brilliance. Being in the presence of such inspired design awakened a profound sense of purpose within me. It ignited a genuine aspiration to someday create spaces that evoke profound emotions, tell compelling stories, and uplift the human spirit
The Jubilee Church stands as a powerful testament to the everlasting impact that architecture can have It serves as a beacon of inspiration, fueling my unwavering commitment to pursuing a career where I can craft spaces that captivate the eye and stir the soul, leaving an enduring legacy of beauty, meaning, and transcendence
Can you share with us an architectural work that has deeply resonated with you and explain why it is so significant?
As a professional with LEED accreditation, I have integrated sustainability and social responsibility into my practice by actively working on multiple LEED Silver, Gold, and Platinum Certified Projects In addition, I have completed a Net-Zero project with the Department of Energy and successfully implemented the Federal Sustainable Guiding Principles
for High-Performance Sustainable Buildings in numerous projects. I take a passive approach to integrating sustainable principles, ensuring they do not affect the owner ' s bottom line This approach involves appropriate design for the building context, including features such as large overhangs, shaded windows, and North-facing glazing I also focus on using energy-efficient appliances and LED light fixtures and implementing water-use reduction through low-flow plumbing fixtures and xeriscape landscaping Furthermore, I prioritize specifying pre- and postconsumer materials in my projects Buildings account for a significant portion of energy use in the US, and I actively encourage owners to invest in sustainable strategies for long-term benefits. I also educate owners about building life-cycle assessments, emphasizing the importance ofconsidering their buildings' environmental and social impact.
In addition to sustainability, I have also paid careful attention to socially responsible considerations, aiming to protect our environment and positively impact the communities where we live, learn, work, and play This involves conducting thorough research to understand each project's social, cultural, and historical context, ensuring that our responses are sustainable and socially responsible I aim to inspire others in the industry to prioritize sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of their work, creating a brighter, more sustainable future for future generations
July 18, 2024
The AIA Las Vegas Chapter's Placemaking Committee recently hosted an insightful expert panel discussion at Nevada State University (NSU). The event provided a comprehensive exploration of NSU's past achievements, current developments, and future aspirations. The panel offered valuable insights for professionals in the architecture field, enabling them to understand and engage with NSU's initiatives effectively, well in advance of any formal Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process.
A key focus of the discussion was the new university land corporation, which is set to play a crucial role in NSU's growth and expansion. The panel also addressed potential challenges and opportunities that may arise as the university continues to develop, ensuring that professionals are wellprepared to contribute to and support these endeavors.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our esteemed speakers: Dr. Amber Lopez, Scott Muelrath, Daniel Hidalgo, and Lee Ferris. Their expertise and insights were invaluable in making this event a success. A special thank you also goes to Kristina White for her excellent moderation of the panel discussion.
PRESIDENT- ELECT CANDIDATE
Troy Moser, AIA
MOSER Architecture Studio
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Basel H Kais, AIA BHK Designs
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Victoria Cousino, AIA KNIT
SECRETARY CANDIDATE
Teresa Mears, AIA LGA Architecture
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Paul Spannhake, AIA DLR Group
EPYAF DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Daniel Hidalgo, Assoc. AIA TSK Architects
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Brian Jeff Grill, AIA
J S Held
DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Daniel Chenin, AIA
Daniel Joseph Chenin, Ltd
EPYAF DIRECTOR CANDIDATE
Wellbe Bartsma, AIA Gensler
MOSER Architecture Studio
Troy currently serves as the President of the Las Vegas chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) He also continues in 25+ years of service on the Board of Trustees for Discovery Children’s Museum and as Finance Chair at Green Valley United Methodist Church. MOSER architecture studio is entering its 20th year of practice and focuses on firm culture and having fun at work while pursuing excellence in customer service and project delivery A Nebraska native, Troy holds his Bachelor and Master of Architecture degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Troy and his wife Jill enjoy traveling, playing golf and visiting their children; Heidi, age 23 and William, age 21
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
If elected, I look forward to continuing our work to develop our new foundation and to ensure that funding for scholarships will be secured for the long term. These scholarships are important components of the development of architectural talent as we grow our future work force I also want to continue our work towards the potential ownership of the Morelli House, the future home of AIA Las Vegas.
I am a licensed project architect at LGA Architecture with ten years of career experience Throughout my career, I have primarily worked in the commercial sector with experience in education, healthcare, and public architecture Graduating college with a degree that bridges architecture and interior design has given me a unique perspective on the profession that I have brought to both my roles at firms and my involvement in professional organizations I have been involved on leadership boards for both interior design organizations and the AIA, and bring a sense of curiosity, problemsolving, and a willingness to serve as a team player to the organization Having previously served as Secretary, I understand the responsibilities and the importance of clear communication and collaboration.
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I have had the pleasure of serving as the AIA Las Vegas Board Secretary for the 2024 calendar year and would love to continue that role. I originally became a member of AIA to support and advance the profession and to connect with and give back to my community. Serving on the board of directors is an amazing opportunity to meet both of these goals
As far as the future of AIA, I think we are seeing architecture firms being concerned not just about equity externally for our clients and communities, but also internally for all the employees and workers that are involved in the profession. The AIA is positioned to help determine what the future of architecture looks like, both in terms of who has access to every level of the profession and in how each level of the profession is empowered to advocate for themselves AIA Las Vegas works to support members at all levels of the profession, and I would love to further a continued investment in the future of the profession - including our emerging professionals and students of all ages
Daniel Joseph Chenin, Ltd
Daniel Joseph Chenin, AIA, is an awardwinning architect and Design Principal of his eponymous firm He has dedicated his career to advancing the profession through service, mentorship, and fostering emerging professionals With nearly two decades of diverse experience, Daniel is NCARB certified and an active AIA member. He has served as an Adjunct Professor at UNLV and has been recognized with multiple AIA awards, including the AIA Nevada Silver Award His firm, established in 2014, reflects his commitment to innovative design, community building, and supporting the next generation of architects Daniel's mission is to lead by example, pushing design boundaries and advocating for emerging professionals
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I am committed to serving the AIA, my peers, and the community I have held key AIA positions, including EPYAF Director and NCARB Licensing Advisor. In my past roles, I have actively contributed to reshaping the licensure path by advocating for legislative changes and supporting the National Design Services Act Additionally, as a supporter of the UNLV School of Architecture, I have served as an adjunct professor and continue to mentor students. My plans are focused on educating and advocating for young designers and supporting my peers
For the past two years I have served on the AIA LV Board of Directors. During that time our chapter has made great progress thanks to the efforts of the entire board and all the volunteers
Over the past year I have also personally been recognized by the AIA as the recipient of the 2023 Women in Architecture Rising Star Award, and the 2023 Young Architect Award These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without the inspiring and supportive group of architects and allies that I have surrounded myself with, and my wish is to provide similar guidance to another future award winner
At the beginning of 2024 I was elevated to the position of Studio Leader at Knit, and this transition has taught me new skills and talents that I am eager to expand upon and share with others
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I am excited about the progress the Board has made in the past few years, and I believe we can not only maintain, but gain even more ground during the next term cycle. As AIA Las Vegas prepares to move their headquarters to the historic Morelli House, we are presented with a unique opportunity to set the tone for the organization going forward
If reelected, I hope to continue supporting efforts such as the modernization of the organization, further outreach and engagement of young and future professionals, and applying constant steady pressure to the UNLV School of Architecture to provide the best education they can for our local architecture students.
There is still much work to be done both locally and nationally to improve our profession, and I hope to continue to be a part of that transformation.
J S Held
For the past 34 years I have dedicated my architectural career to the betterment of the architectural profession From addressing deficiencies in the application and execution of architectural services, to the enforcement of standards established by the national organization, I have continually attempted to raise the bar of professional practice. I have volunteered time with the Nevada State Board in the modernization of the Residential Designers license exam, served as education and building code chair for the ICBO/ICC and served on the Southern Nevada 2018 Building Code Update committee, charged with the responsibility of reviewing and recommending the adoption of code changes by all of the Southern Nevada municipalities
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
There has always been a somewhat jaded opinion of the organization by too high a percentage of architects, which has resulted in a deficiency in the number of members and even less for active and participating members. What I have experienced from nonmember architects is the approach that the AIA is a necessary nuisance, costing too much for membership, but providing the necessary access to continuing education. I want to change that by broadening the pool of education topics and an increase of the value of fringe topics; those not traditionally a part of the typical continuing education of architects, but provide a resource for betterment of the whole architect and practice.
BHK Design
The most important thing to know about me is that I enjoy spending my time with my wife, our son and our two dogs, attending a football game at the Big House or travelling the world Originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, I graduated from the University of Michigan Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning in May 2006. After graduating, I decided to begin my career in Las Vegas, working at Perlman Architects and Steelman Partners I have been involved with the growth of the Las Vegas valley in all aspects of architecture from conceptual to construction administration on projects ranging from small TIs to multi-family and schools, being responsible for such projects as Elysian @ Hughes, Elysian @ Flamingo, Tanager II in Downtown Summerlin, Otonomus Hotel and Desert Torah Academy.
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I am running for a position on the Board of Directors because I want to be part of change; I want to be part of the growth of architecture and Architects; I want to help make Architects a crucial part of society; I want to see the day when Architects are as revered as doctors. History shows us that there was a time when Architects were all these things and can be again – a time when architecture defined who we are as a people.
I truly believe that the AIA can add great value to all Architects in ways they may not believe I say “ can ” because I believe we as Architects have a lot of work to do and the AIA is our greatest advocate for enacting that change. Part of that change is to encourage collaboration between Architects. Architects’ ability to collaborate with other firms is often impeded by the liability legalese of our profession, but we need to find a way to communicate more, to produce better projects for our clients, for society and for ourselves.
DLR Group
Having started in commercial architecture in 1998, I have had an enriching career and gained experience in all aspects of professional practice My design-first mentality works for project design as well as for organizations I am comfortable with uncertainty, and I am able to synthesize ideas, think creatively, and contribute to group vision When vision is needed, I enjoy creating new vision Because of my experience and love of this field, my career priorities have moved toward knowledge sharing, broader community engagement, leadership, and giving back to a profession that has given me so much For these reasons I believe that I am an ideal candidate for Board Director with the passion, energy, and enthusiasm to contribute in a valuable way.
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
My career passions revolve around the integration of concepts and ideas that are inspirational I have always believed that If I can inspire myself, I can inspire others. I find inspiration in the process of seeking out the connections between formal learning, life experience, and life interests and sharing those connections with others As an architect, I have formal training in design, which is a lifelong journey of discovery and integration of concepts. An idea that has inspired me throughout my career is: Architecture’s tie to place, time, and culture Las Vegas has a staggeringly beautiful landscape, history, culture, and uniqueness, beyond just that of the Strip. I would hope to bring a depth of focus and exploration to these aspects of Las Vegas as a Board Director
Wellbe Bartsma is an accomplished architect and Associate at Gensler Las Vegas with a robust background in 3D modeling and project design Wellbe’s journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from Washington State University, followed by a Master’s in Architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology. Wellbe also currently serves as the Nevada Representative on the AIA Strategic Council and has been the Emerging Professionals Director for AIA Las Vegas since January 2023 His commitment to fostering the growth and development of emerging professionals in architecture is unwavering His ongoing contribution to AIA Las Vegas and his strategic vision for the future make him an invaluable asset to the EPYAF committee
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I have had the pleasure of being the Emerging Professionals Director since 2023 and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience We've had great momentum planning events such as our Firm Crawls, which have gained in popularity and have large turnouts of students, practicing architects, and allied members My goal for these events were to form connections between like-minded individuals across all backgrounds and levels of experience. We've also been able to plan project tours of projects currently under construction as well as interesting projects that have already been open, such as the UFC headquarters, to gain an inside look at interesting projects around our great city. The last two years have flown by, and the Emerging Professionals committee has some great plans for the future I would love to continue my role on the AIA board to further create meaningful connections between our members as well as educate and help our Emerging Professionals grow.
TSK Architects
With 13+ years of experience in civic architecture across the US and abroad, I'm passionate about designing sustainable, community-centric spaces that empower users and tell a story My expertise spans federal, justice, K-12, and higher education projects, along with master planning initiatives.
I believe architecture should not just serve a function, but also foster connections and leave a lasting positive impact Licensed abroad and currently navigating the US licensure process, I understand the challenges young professionals face I'm committed to working with the younger generation to enhance our community and help them achieve their goals, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Why do you want to join the Board of Directors? What plans do you have for the future of AIA?
I want to be on the AIA Board of Directors to help the younger generation of professionals achieve their goals and make the paths to getting licensed clearer and easier to navigate. I aim to inspire and foster their creative visions, enriching our profession and pushing boundaries with innovative ideas My goal is to support emerging architects, enhance our community, and cultivate an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. Through strategic guidance and operational oversight, I am committed to ensuring the success and growth of our future professionals
VOTE FOR YOUR 2025 AIA LAS VEGAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS!
It's time to shape the future of our organization! AIA Las Vegas members, your voice matters in selecting our leadership for 2025.
Here's what you need to know:
Voting is now open for the 2025 Board of Directors
Only AIA and Associate AIA members are eligible to vote (Allied members are not eligible)
Voting closes on August 16th, 2024 @ 5:00 PM PST
Keep an eye on your inbox! Official voting emails will be sent to all eligible members from Constant Contact To ensure you don't miss this important opportunity:
Check your email inbox regularly
Don't forget to look in your spam or junk folders
Your participation is crucial in guiding our chapter's direction. Make sure your voice is heardcast your vote by August 16th!
Attention sustainability architects! We invite you to inspire the next generation of sustainable architects by mentoring a student at the upcoming Earth USA 2024 conference in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from September 13-15. A UNLV architecture student has reached out to AIA Las Vegas with an avid interest in adobe and earth-based building materials. They are very excited to attend this international conference with a focus on innovative earthen construction techniques, including adobe, rammed earth, and compressed earth blocks, and wanted to shadow an architect to have informed conversations and get the most out of Earth USA.
This is an excellent opportunity to shape the future of architecture while earning 16 AIA/CES credits (LU|HSW). Earth USA 2024 offers podium presentations, poster sessions, and local tours, providing a comprehensive look at the future of sustainable earthen-based architecture.
If you're interested in mentoring a UNLV student at Earth USA 2024, please register for the conference here and reach out to our team so that we may connect you! Your participation can make a significant impact on a student's professional development and the future of sustainable design.
Contact Us!
Phone: (702) 483-3838
Email: Operations @AIANevada.org
USA 2024 HOMEPAGE
USA 2024 REGISTRATION
AIA Las Vegas Placemaking Committee
Chair: Minjia Yan myan@millenniumcommercial.com Virtual Meeting 1st Thursday of each month at 11:00am
AIA Las Vegas Affordable Housing Committee
Co-Chair: Monica Gresser, AIA monica@BRAZENarchitecture.com
Co-Chair: David Kim, AIA David.Kim@MatterRealestate.com Virtual Meeting 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:00pm
AIA Las Vegas Allied Members Committee
Chair: Kayleigh Hasshaw khasshaw@tjkengineers.com Virtual Meeting 4th Wednesday every other month at 9:30am
AIA Las Vegas Government Affairs Committee
Chair: Eric Roberts, FAIA ericr@knitstudios.com Virtual Meeting Schedule 1st Wednesday of each month at 4:00pm
AIA Las Vegas Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion & Education Outreach Committee
Chair: Melvin Green, AIA melvin@kmearchitects com Virtual Meeting 4th Thursday of each month at 4:00pm
AIA Las Vegas Women In Architecture Committee
Chair: Monica Gresser, AIA monica@BRAZENarchitecture.com Hybrid Meeting 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:00pm
AIA Las Vegas UNLV School of Architecture Committee
Chair: Glenn Nowak, AIA glenn.nowak@unlv.edu Virtual Meeting 3rd Thursday of the month at 10:30am
AIA Las Vegas EPYAF Committee
Chair: Wellbe Bartsma, AIA wellbe bartsma@gensler com Virtual Meeting 2nd Tuesday of each month at 3:00pm
AIA Las Vegas Urban Sketchers Committee
Chair: Eric Roberts, FAIA ericr@knitstudios.com Virtual or In Person Meeting 2nd Saturday of each month at 10:00am
AIA Nevada Small Firm Exchange
Chair: Anne Johnson, AIA anne@sparkflightstudios.com
Tuesday, June 11th 2024
8:00 AM
Virtual via ZOOM
Connect with fellow small firm leaders in Nevada for a virtual coffee chat hosted by SFx This is your chance to meet other architects running small practices, discuss hot topics facing your firms today, and explore how the AIA can better support Nevada's small business community
Special announcement: Zach Broyles from IZ Design Studio will be hosting the upcoming SFx Virtual Coffee Chat on Tuesday, August 13th.
Join the conversation and make your voice heard. This is your community - don't miss this opportunity to shape its future and connect with Zach and other small firm leaders in Nevada!
Small firm = Less than nine (9) employees
Las Vegas Review Journal
By Alan Halaly
July 19, 2024 - 6:00 AM
Desert summers are getting more severe, and Las Vegas’ urban planning isn’t doing it any favors. Sprawl across the valley ensures that heat isn’t felt equally in every neighborhood.
This phenomenon is known as urban heat island effect, where dark-colored city streets and buildings trap excess heat, especially in areas without appropriate tree cover and green spaces.
As Clark County works through its plan to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, Las Vegas is breaking all-time heat records and an increasing number of Nevadans are dying from heat illness.
“Even though everybody is exposed to extreme heat, the experience is very unequal depending on where you live and
who you are,” said Ariel Choinard, coordinator of the Southern Nevada Heat Resilience Lab, which is focused on community education and finding local solutions. “There are pockets of town that are simply hotter than others.”
There are many causes of urban heat island effect, such as building homes too close together, reducing air flow, and a high volume of pavement that traps heat at the height of the day. Urban heat islands are less likely to cool off in the nighttime because they hold heat so well.
That’s certainly the case in Las Vegas. The National Weather Service has said the city is on track to have the most days on record where temperatures don’t dip below 90 degrees at night. A 2024 mapping effort from science communications firm Climate Central showed there are
16,000 Las Vegas residents whose neighborhoods experience heat with an intensity of 9 degrees more than the rest of the city.
Certain areas were identified as well by the 2022 Southern Nevada Urban Heat Mapping Project, which enlisted volunteers to collect data around Clark County. East Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and downtown Las Vegas can experience temperatures up to 11 degrees hotter than other parts of the region, according to the findings.
Those areas include historically Black and Latino neighborhoods, where there are often fewer trees and parks.
“Our messaging needs to get out in multiple languages like Spanish and Tagalog,” said Choinard, whose lab is studying whether campaigns promoting the
county’s cooling centers are reaching those most vulnerable to heat. “And it needs to come from sources that people trust.”
Steffen Lehmann, an architect who runs UNLV’s Urban Futures Lab, said Las Vegas has slowly begun to design some areas in a way that’s smarter for increasingly hot summers.
Mixed-use development, where stores, restaurants and residences are located within walking distance of one another, should be the focus of city planning
going forward, he said. Projects like UnCommons in southwest Las Vegas and The District at Green Valley Ranch in Henderson are good examples, Lehmann added.
Much of the Las Vegas Valley is zoned solely for single-family homes, which only promotes car use and often doesn’t allow for adequate shade to reduce the urban heat island effect, he said.
Parks and so-called urban forests provide a critical cooling effect. In some cases, that fact can be at odds with programs that promote converting grass lawns in favor of rocks or turf, he said, made necessary by Western drought.
“What’s missing is walkability, continuous shade and new green spaces,” Lehmann said. “I think we could do much better.”
Contact Alan Halaly at ahalaly@reviewjournal.com. Follow @AlanHalaly on X.
05
HCD Webinar: The role of ADUs in addressing the Housing Crisis
When: Aug 5, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 01:00 PM (ET)
06 CACE Annual Meeting 2024
When: Aug 6, 2024 from 06:00 AM to 11:00 PM (ET)
09 MillerKnoll Healthcare Scholarship
When: Aug 9, 2024 from 05:00 PM to 05:00 PM (ET)
13
Live course: Pediatric Healthcare Design: Practical Applications of VR, Eye-Tracking, and Biosensors
When: Aug 13, 2024 from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM (ET)
20 Live course: Be the Change You Want to See in Senior Living Regulation
When: Aug 20, 2024 from 01:00 PM to 02:00 PM (ET)
29 AIA Live Course: Inclusive Restrooms & Locker Rooms in K–12 Schools
When: Aug 29, 2024 from 03:00 PM to 04:00 PM (ET)
Andreina Seijas speaks about the development, challenges, and opportunities with night mayors
Over the years, the nocturnal landscape of cities has witnessed a significant transformation, marked by the emergence of more than 80night mayors globally, a trend that has been on the rise since the early 2000s Andreina Seijas, currently working as an Associate at Gehl, has analyzed these shifting dynamics of night-time governance in her research and during her doctoral studies at Harvard GSD Seijas speaks in the interview about this development, challenges, and opportunities with night mayors, global differences, and the role of climate change Seijas' upbringing in Caracas, Venezuela, where safety concerns dictated strict curfews, ignited her passion for creating safer, more inclusive urban environments, particularly for the youth Her quest for a better future for the urban night explores the potential for cities to become safer, more inclusive, and more productive by creating spaces for work and leisure after dark
TS: Which elements are important for creating an attractive nighttime in cities?
AS: There is a great metaphor that I borrowed from the former mayor of Bogota, Antanas Mockus He talked about the city as a combination of hardware and software, just like a computer When managing life at night, the hardware refers to the infrastructure such as public lighting, transportation, and the ability of our public spaces to provide safe and inclusive opportunities for social interaction after dark But cities also require nocturnal software, which refers to the regulations, codes, and behavioral patterns that shape
night-time behavior For example, liquor licensing affects the distribution of night-time activities in North American cities
Aside from those two components, a third element is night-time governance, which refers to the institutions responsible for managing life at night This growing cast of actors includes neighborhood watches, publicprivate partnerships, square or neighborhood hosts, and the emerging role of night mayors
Urban life at night is an ecosystem That is why it is very important to differentiate between ‘nightlife’ and ‘life at night’ because the first one is
a subset of the second. In other words, managing life also involves other non-leisure activities such as those who work in healthcare, transportation, and logistics. Strategies that aim to change a city’s situation at night should therefore consider these three components hardware, software, and institutions and not just how public infrastructure can be improved Maybe it's about updating a regulation or introducing new policies In any case, cities should also consider who are the stakeholders involved and how to create a new night vision that responds to their needs
TS: Why have more cities hired a night mayor and how did it start?
AS: Night mayors are individuals responsible for managing life at night The role has evolved over the past 15 years, from its inception in European cities like Amsterdam and Berlin to its dissemination around the world The origin of the title comes from the Netherlands, inspired by the Dutch poet and performer Jules Deelder, who liked to call himself the ‘night mayor’ of Rotterdam However, night studies had already started around the 1990s, particularly in countries such as the United Kingdom For criminologist Dr Phil Hadfield, these studies have evolved in a series of waves The first focused on the transformation of post-industrial city centers beyond the 9 to 5 timeframe and was marked by factors such as the conversion of abandoned warehouses and buildings into bars, clubs, and creative spaces The second wave of night studies focused on how to regulate these rapidly expanding
new activities. This reactive period was very focused on CCTV, zoning laws, licensing, and the role of police and city governments in mitigating the problems caused by increased night-time urban activity. During the third and more proactive wave, cities started to integrate data and planning mechanisms to measure the impact of the night-time economy on quality of life and well-being In this context, the emergence of night mayors can be considered as a fourth wave, which advocates for a collaborative approach to managing the urban night
TS: What is the night mayor situation today?
AS: In 2020, former Amsterdam night mayor Mirik Milan and I published a paper in Urban Studies that presented the results of the first qualitative study on this new role: who are the world’s night mayors, what is their mandate, what resources they have available, and whether they were working alone or with a team The paper led to a global night mayors map that is constantly updated with new roles and offices that have been created around the world This map can be found here
Today, many cities have created official departments or offices to manage life at night in collaboration with other city agencies In cities like Amsterdam, London, Mannheim, New York, and Washington D C there has already been more than one night mayor, or the incumbent has been in office for multiple terms The durability of this role has enabled these geographies to transition from reactive measures to sustainable
long-term policies. Based on their expertise, former night mayors have also become consultants advising other cities on how to manage life at night.
TS: What are the differences between Europe, the United States, and Latin America regarding night-time governance?
AS: Over the past three decades, we have seen an evolution of nighttime governance all around the world, especially in the Americas, influenced by large cities like New York International night mayors often collaborate online and in person to share first-hand knowledge and experience on how to manage their night-time economies However, each city and region are unique and night-time governance strategies must be designed with history and local context in mind
When I started my research almost 15 years ago, I realized that most night studies were available in English, French, and German, but not in Spanish As a Venezuelan, most of my early work was focused on raising awareness of the relevance of the night in Latin America In a highly unequal region, in Latin America, the link between night-time activity and crime is quite prominent, which explains why most strategies are highly restrictive Changing this mindset requires a more proactive and inclusive approach that recognizes the value of life at night from a social and cultural perspective
TS: Which challenges have you identified that cities face managing life at night?
AS: When managing life at night, night mayors and policymakers often face a series of misconceptions that hinder their ability or the resources available to do their job.
The first misconception is that having shorter nights is synonymous with having better nights In other words, that efficient nighttime management requires restricting hours and activities after dark with measures like curfews and strict lockdowns Amsterdam is a great example of a city that has helped debunk this myth by introducing policies that expand night-time activity In 2010, the city introduced 24-hour licenses, a policy scheme that has both a spatial and a temporal component: On one hand it aims to decongest traditional nightlife areas such as the Red Light District by encouraging new night-time activity to happen outside of the city center On the other hand, the scheme proves that staggered closing times are more efficient than having all establishments close at once, which leads to thousands of people coming out to the street at the same time and disrupting those who are sleeping
A second misconception is that life at night is a monolithic experience, in other words, it is experienced equally by everyone As part of our work with clients around the world, Gehl conducts studies that allow us to map and characterize the way public spaces are used throughout the day These studies provide detailed inventories revealing how place attributes such as the distribution of urban furniture, lighting, traffic, and wayfinding can influence social experiences, and
how these experiences can also vary based on demographic characteristics like age, gender, race, income, and neurodiversity. When gathered and analyzed systematically, the unique ways in which people and places shape one another become opportunities to enhance urban life after dark
A third misconception is that life at night is both a cause and consequence of climate change Increased nighttime activity is often associated with light and sound pollution and other environmental impacts However, it is also an indicator of rising temperatures Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Spain are already witnessing greater densities in public spaces at night and have banned outdoor occupational activities during daytime conditions of extreme heat Cities and organizations will need to gradually adapt work schedules, and invest in programming and infrastructure that enable greater use of public spaces at night, when temperatures are lower than during the day
Managing cities after dark is the new urban frontier The challenge for planners, designers, and policymakers is to overcome these prevailing misconceptions and to take advantage of the other half of the day
Light matters, a column on light and space, is written by Dr Thomas Schielke Based in Germany, he is fascinated by architectural lighting and works as a trainer for the lighting company ERCO He has published numerous articles and co-authored the books “Light Perspectives” and “SuperLux” For
more information check www.erco.com and www.arclighting.de.
Follow us on social media and check out our events on our website!
Instagram - @aialasvegas
Twitter - @aialasvegas
Facebook - @AIA Las Vegas
AIA Las Vegas Chapter