The BSA hosts the AIA National Convention and Design Exposition for the first time in 16 years this May. More than 25,000 architects and allied professionals are expected to travel here to revel in both the new and old Boston. And there are plenty of reasons for locals to join them.
Celebrations, Fenway Park and More…
On Friday night, the BSA throws the best party in AIA history at the Boston Public Library. And on Sunday, we get behind the scenes throughout the new Fenway Park and hear firsthand from architects, contractors and engineers about the challenges of renovating this historic venue. Visit Tours and Events for more reasons to join in.
Help us showcase the depth and number of architecture firms, architects and designers right here in Boston. Payette generously has designed a signage system— including posters, sandwich boards and banners for light poles — that allows everyone to participate. The 22" × 28" convention posters are designed to be customized and printed by individuals and firms. Download the design template and printing instructions and hang the posters in your office windows or affix them to a sandwich board on your sidewalk.
Download the poster templates and printing directions (Compressed ZIP)
The free AIA Expo2008, held at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center as part of the convention, offers exhibits, design galleries and much more. Visit the BSA Store created by Gensler and Suffolk Construction and managed by Vessel. Expo hours are Thursday, May 15, from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; Friday, May 16, from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; and Saturday, May 17, to 9:30 am to 2:00 pm. To attend, print and complete the form below and present it on-site at the AIA registration area.
Download your free Expo pass (PDF)
Become an AIA Member and Receive Free Registration
All first-time AIA and Associate AIA members who join the AIA between May 6, 2007, and May 17, 2008 receive free cobnvention registration! For details, contact Karin Broadhurst at kbroadhurst@architects.org or call 617-951-1433 x228
The Convention Theme — “We the People”
Marshall Purnell FAIA, 2008 president-elect of the AIA, set the tone for the convention with the theme. “We the People” implies the essential role of the architect in society… “We are the people we serve and we live in the communities we have designed. We are the stewards of the safety and health of our children in their schools and our elderly in their places of care.” The theme resonates with the BSA’s focus on community and inclusiveness.
Shepley Bulfinch president Carole Wedge AIA is serving as the chair of the host city planning committee and is working with BSA staff and the national convention committee.
BSA 2008 President and recent AIA Thomas Jefferson Award recipient Diane Georgopulos FAIA along with scores of BSA leaders and volunteers join Carole in welcoming everyone to Boston and to the BSA’s tours and events.