Washington, D.C. – April 1, 2014 – National Architecture Week (NAW) is a public awareness campaign from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) dedicated to increasing attention to the role architects play as a force for positive change in our communities and to elevate the public’s appreciation of design.  NAW is annually held during the birthday week of our nation’s first president/architect, Thomas Jefferson (April 12).

Similar to previous years’ observances, National Architecture Week will be virtual and will include several events taking place on social media platforms.  AIA National will post links to videos on Twitter and Facebook from several award-winning architects sharing what inspires them about architecture. You can follow the twitter activity by using the hashtag #archweek14.  On Sunday, April 6, the NAW homepage will go live: http://www.aia.org/archweek

The Architecture Is Awesome contest on Instagram will use the social networking platform to showcase architects’ good designs and encourage architecture fans to share their thoughts and engage with like-minded professionals during the week.  Instagram users will also have an opportunity to win prize gift cards in the Architecture Is Awesome sweepstakes by uploading tagged images of their favorite local architectural sites.  Five lucky winners will be selected based on what is considered to be the best images of architecture. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, April 16, on Twitter.

The recipients of the 2014 AIA Housing Awards will be announced on Monday, April 7. This annual award showcases the best in residential design and includes amazing imagery.  Each day AIA National will shine the spotlight on individual award recipients on the NAW homepage.

Additionally several AIA chapters will host special events such as receptions, lectures, tours, film screenings, award programs, and open houses. You can get more information on local events here: http://www.aia.org/about/AIAB101988.

Occurring simultaneously in several markets will be the premier of the PBS series, Cool Spaces! The Best New Architecture. The program will showcase some of the 21st century's most provocative and innovative public space architecture in North America. Each hour-long episode is organized around a central building typology theme — such as Performance Spaces or Art Spaces — and profiles three buildings.  Learn more about this program and when it will be airing in your market here: http://www.coolspaces.tv/tvshow/on-air-schedule-2/
 

About The American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, members of the American Institute of Architects consistently work to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public well being.  Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit www.aia.org.



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