Washington, D.C. – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently announced that Haworth Inc., a global leader in the design and manufacture of adaptable workspaces, is now a Silver Sponsor of AIA150—the 150th celebration of the AIA's 1857 founding.
The theme of AIA150 is "Celebrating the Past, Designing the Future." While the AIA150 will recognize important and historic milestones of AIA members, its primary effort is the Blueprint for America, a nationwide community service initiative that brings together AIA architects, citizens, and leaders from 156 communities to address specific needs and share in creating a vision for their current and future design priorities.
"This generous gesture by Haworth speaks clearly to their dedication to helping AIA members collaborate with the public to achieve more sustainable, livable communities," says AIA executive vice president/CEO Christine McEntee. "This is a natural partnership that exemplifies both the AIA and Haworth's commitment to creating adaptable, efficient spaces and communities that are designed for the betterment of the environment."
"Haworth Inc. is thrilled to support this AIA initiative for healthy environments, and we value the opportunity to collaborate on ways to enhance the nation's communities," says Franco Bianchi, Haworth president and CEO. "We congratulate the AIA on its 150 years of setting the design model, and we look forward to a very productive partnership."
In addition to the Blueprint for America initiative, the AIA150 will also advance the public understanding of the role of architects in innovative ways, including a radio series entitled "The Shape of America," a consumer poll to identify America's Favorite Architecture, support for research and scholarships, and demonstration of a sustainable 21st century work place.
About AIA150
Celebrating 150 years, the AIA is the premier professional organization for America's architects. The AIA150 program, "Celebrating the Past. Designing the Future," honors architects for their dedication and commitment to excellence in design and livability in our nation's buildings and communities. The cornerstone of AIA150, Blueprint for America, serves as a nationwide platform to unite architects and citizens to collaborate on their communities' design priorities. The AIA will also release its list of America's Favorite Architecture, according to a professional survey. For more information on other AIA150 news and events, including Blueprint for America, visit www.aia150.org.
Blueprint for America
Blueprint for America is the cornerstone of the American Institute of Architects' 150th Anniversary Celebration. Comprised of 156 community service projects funded by the AIA, Blueprint for America brings architects and the public together to address community needs related to design and livability. From downtown revitalization projects to affordable housing modules, Blueprint for America inspires people to think about the way architecture impacts their daily lives. Once completed, case studies from individual Blueprint projects will be compiled and shared with local officials interested in implementing similar programs in their communities. The completed piece, titled "Blueprint for America Mosaic: A Gift to the Nation," will be presented in 2008. For more information, visit www.aia150.org.
About The American Institute of Architects
For 150 years, members of The American Institute of Architects have worked with each other and their communities to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings and cityscapes. AIA members have access to the right people, knowledge, and tools to create better design, and through such resources and access, they help clients and communities make their visions real. Go to www.aia.org to learn more.
About Haworth Inc.
Haworth Inc. is a global leader in the design and manufa
