AIA Iowa Mission Statement

AIA Iowa's mission is to improve the built environment through service to members, the profession, and the public.

I. Build Public Awareness of the Value of Design Provide educational opportunities, concepts and materials to the public Promote and chronicle Iowa architects and architecture Recognize public contribution to architecture Celebrate and protect Iowa's architectural heritage

II. Promote Learning of the Art and Science of Architecture Provide opportunities for learning Encourage the pursuit of new knowledge Promote high quality architectural education

III. Promote a Better Climate in which to Practice Provide information about selection of design professionals Interact in legislative and regulatory processes Encourage dialogue between members of the construction industry Provide access to information Assist members to identify future opportunities and threats and help them plan for change

IV. Encourage Diversity within the Profession, and Build an Appreciation of that Diversity Recognize and encourage diversity of professional pursuits Foster greater demographic and cultural diversity within the profession

V. Service to the Public

AIA Iowa History

In 1904, eight architects in Des Moines elected to form a subgroup of The American Institute of Architects. Today, more than 800 AIA Iowa members belong to five sections: Central Iowa, Cedar Rapids-Iowa City, Eastern Iowa, Northwest Iowa and Southwest Iowa. Individual membership consists of: Member (registered architect); Associate Member (does not hold a license to practice, but holds a professional degree in architecture or is employed by an architect in a technical capacity); Professional Affiliate Member (affiliated design professional); or Allied Member (allied to the architectural field). AIA Iowa currently lists more than 97 architectural Firm Members.   After fifteen years in our 1000 Walnut Street, Des Moines, location, AIA Iowa has moved into its new first-floor office (Suite 100) in Capital Square at 400 Locust Street in Des Moines.  The new office, in the heart of downtown Des Moines on Nollen Plaza, adds square footage for a larger conference room and an additional office in a space designed for greater public exposure for the chapter, its programs and the profession of architecture.   The AIA Iowa Board of Directors established a goal of Certified LEED Gold Interior, and the design has been driven by that objective.   AIA Iowa would like to thank our members and our friends for making our new home possible.  The invitation is open to everyone to come by our new office to say “Hello” and see what steps the architects took to achieve our LEED status.