Thomas Polucci

The challenges faced in the field of architecture are undeniable. The pressure from competition, clients, economic setbacks, workplace culture, negativity, toxicity, and political situations worldwide can make the profession incredibly demanding. Many architects find themselves questioning their career choices as they experience a large exodus from the field. This reinforces the notion that architecture is becoming less rewarding than expected, echoing the French saying "L'Architecture est un métier ingrat". #Architecture #Challenges #CareerInsights The American Institute of Architects (AIA) LAU LAU LAU - Academy of Continuing Education (ACE) Order of Engineers and Architects of Beirut - Official Page

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🌟 Spotlight on Leadership in Workspace Design 🌟 Thrilled to share insights from one of the most influential figures in workspace design, Kay Sargent, Senior Principal and Director of Thought Leadership at HOK. With over 39 years of experience, Kay has been a trailblazer in transforming our approach to how and where we work. 🏢✨ Based in Washington, D.C., Kay leads HOK's project teams to tackle complex business and organizational challenges, optimizing real estate portfolios and creating pioneering work experiences. Her work has not only earned accolades but also recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives, where she has provided expert testimony on the future of federal real estate post-COVID-19. A member of the prestigious IIDA College of Fellows and recognized as a "Designer of Distinction" by American Society of Interior Designers - ASID, Kay's contributions to the field extend beyond her project work. She actively contributes to the community through roles on advisory boards and speaking engagements worldwide, pushing the envelope on what it means to design spaces that truly serve their users. Kay's philosophy centers on crafting spaces that reflect the essence of the organizations they serve, emphasizing the importance of a workplace being a physical manifestation of an organization's ethos and culture. Her work exemplifies the integration of sustainability, technology, and inclusivity, setting a standard for what the future of workspace design should strive to achieve. As we navigate the evolving landscape of workplace design, Kay's leadership and vision offer invaluable lessons and inspiration. Let's discuss how these insights can shape the future of our practices and the environments we create. #WorkspaceDesign #Leadership #Innovation #HOK #Architecture #Sustainability #FutureOfWorkspaces

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Listen to my latest episodes on TheAntiArchitect.com #TheAntiArchitect #AntiArchitect #Podcast #Architecture #Design #AEC

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Spotlight On: Reetika Vijay, AIA LEED ap, Managing Principal, IA Interior Architects 3 min read April 2024 — In an interview with #Invest:, Reetika Vijay, managing principal of IA Interior Architects, talked about the firm’s focus on #designing spaces with a strong emphasis on user experience, particularly in #workplace projects. With shifts in client priorities post-pandemic, IA has expanded into retail, #hospitality, and tough tech sectors, positioning themselves for growth into 2025. READ MORE: https://lnkd.in/e2UfcF6K

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This week's episode features an insightful conversation with Melvalean McLemore, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP of Moody Nolan. Listen in to hear more about her journey into the profession and learn some helpful tips to reframe conversations on which communities are worthy of good design. #designforall #architecture #blackowned https://lnkd.in/dcxPwgS4

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Breaking Barriers: Embracing Authenticity and Client-Centric Culture in Architecture. Join Bill Mandara, AIA, CEO Mancini Duffy, and host Ayman Ayoub as they challenge industry norms and discuss how to prioritize genuine connections over egos. What is the one crucial ingredient for success? Watch the full video https://ytube.io/3qXU #Authenticity #ClientCentricCulture #NoEgoPolicy #AIA #Management #ManciniDuffy

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New Inclusive Designers Episode Alert! Designing for: Crisis Centers  (Season 5, Episode 4) with Stephen N. Parker AIA NOMA NCARB LEED AP and Robyn Linstrom, Behavioral Health Design Experts from Stantec. As mental health issues rise, the current system often directs those in crisis to overloaded emergency departments. A better solution? Crisis Stabilization Centers. Join us on the Inclusive Designers Podcast as we explore how to design these essential facilities effectively. In this episode, we delve into: - Reducing stigma in mental health care - Incorporating evidence-based research into design - Utilizing Trauma-Informed Design principles to create supportive environments Our experts share their knowledgeable views on the specific challenges and solutions in designing these crucial facilities. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion! Listen now and contribute to a better mental health care system. #InclusiveDesignersPodcast #MentalHealth #CrisisStabilization #Stantec #TraumaInformedDesign #HealthcareDesign #MentalWellness

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The Architectural Association appoints Alison Brooks, Pui Quan Choi, Cindy Walters, and Steven Ware as new Council members to shape its future strategy. Their diverse expertise will enhance the AA's growth and development. Read more - https://lnkd.in/e8-SWEzH #Architecture #Leadership #AA #Innovation #Diversity #ADF #ArchitectsDatafile

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🔍 Navigating the Architectural Landscape: Insights from Mark Gardner, AIA 🔍 One key issue in the architectural field is the lack of clear guidance on the skills and achievements necessary to progress within an office environment. This absence can leave new architects unsure of how to advance or assert their ambitions after years in the field. The industry is increasingly recognizing the importance of diverse skill sets, particularly business acumen, to meet market demands. Architectural practices are now hiring leaders from non-architectural backgrounds, emphasizing the need for education that encompasses not just design and technical skills but also business strategies and leadership training. 🎓 Bridging the Gap in Education: University courses play a crucial role in addressing these gaps. They should help students advance their careers and educate them about the business systems and mindsets needed for success. This comprehensive approach prepares future architects to be effective leaders and innovators. 💡 Advice from Mark Gardner: Mark Gardner simplifies his advice for architecture students into two main points: Research and Networking: Emphasizing the importance of these in today's world, where information and connections are readily available. Pursue Your Interests: Encouraging students to actively seek opportunities that excite them, rather than settling for less engaging work. Mark shares his own experience of deliberately moving towards projects that align with his interest in African American history, advising students to position themselves strategically and avoid complacency in mundane tasks. He believes in having a long-term plan, recognizing that each step, though not always directly beneficial, is part of a larger journey. 🛠️ Integrating Business Skills: Gardner highlights the common oversight in architectural education—the neglect of business skills. He contends that every aspect of the profession, including business, should be integrated into architectural education. Students should view their classroom experiences as practice for their future careers, constantly questioning and challenging norms. Mark Gardner's insights are invaluable for aspiring architects, blending practical advice with a forward-thinking approach to education and career development. #Architecture #Education #CareerDevelopment #BusinessSkills #Leadership #MarkGardner #Mentorship #Innovation #ProfessionalGrowth Parsons School of Design - The New School University of Pennsylvania

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As Gensler notes, successful cities have a key characteristic in common: They’re able to reenergize the connection between live and work through a combination of mixed-use neighborhood design, affordability, accessibility, and convenience. As cities get smarter post pandemic, urban design must become smarter as well. Discover more insights in Gensler’s City Pulse study: https://lnkd.in/gfpWhP_s

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Clear and concise overview. Carbon reduction operational and embodied.

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By prioritizing critical care, streamlining support services, and designing for long-term adaptability, hospitals can minimize environmental impact and integrate seamlessly into their communities. Read on to see how Gensler sees that future in our ‘Horizon’ critical care community hospital. Thanks to the whole team and coauthors Bonny Slater and Geoffrey Diamond for bringing this important research to life!

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I'm the first to admit, I have a lot to learn about sustainability. That's why I'm so excited to be working at a firm that is teaching green building practices every step of the way. By incorporating sustainability checklists into our library, we're ensuring that at #HOKBoston we're making informed decisions. When I'm asked to track the EPD's, embodied carbon, LEED criteria (and more) of each product, it prompts me to be more aware of what I'm specifying. This provides junior designers like me with guidance on what we should be looking at to determine what makes a product green. The best part is, it's built into all of our systems, so I feel empowered to learn just by doing my jobs. #hok #learning #greenbuilding

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What spaces matter most to creating not only an effective #workplace, but one that also provides a great work experience for employees? Each of these 10 spaces aid employees in doing their best work, says Gensler's Janet Pogue McLaurin, FAIA, FIIDA.

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The Potomac Residence was designed to be a contemporary departure from traditional design expectations in the prestigious neighborhood of Highland Park. This project challenges conventional notions by reimagining the layout and materials of a luxury home. The design prioritizes the integration of public and private spaces in a unique configuration. On the ground level, public areas such as the great room, dining room, kitchen with nook, and office foster a sense of connectivity and openness. Meanwhile, semi-private and private spaces are positioned on the second level, offering a retreat-like ambiance. These include a lounge, primary bedroom/bath suite, three additional bedrooms/baths, a laundry room, and a spacious walk-in storage area. In terms of construction, the residence stands on a post-tension slab on pier foundation, ensuring stability and longevity. The exterior combines modern elements such as stucco, backed by CMU, to create depth and extend the quality of the construction. Timeless materials like limestone and neutral brick allow the home to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. To further enhance efficiency, the project incorporates two tankless hot-water heaters and HVAC units strategically placed to optimize usage between private and public spaces. This thoughtful approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances the overall livability of the residence. — #ResidentialDevelopment #Construction #Design #ModernLuxury #HighlandPark #ContemporaryDesign #InnovativeArchitecture #LuxuryHome #EfficientLiving #SustainableLiving #TimelessMaterials #HVACEfficiency #GreenLiving

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Adaptive reuse and historical preservation projects are a passion at SAAarchitects. Check out these three key best practices that drive our approach: Understand and Adhere to Standards: Follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for historic properties, guiding preservation efforts with a comprehensive framework for rehabilitation, restoration, and preservation. Turn Challenges into Opportunities: Leveraging original materials and uncover innovative solutions that honor the buildings history while meeting modern needs. Promote Sustainability and Viability: Embracing sustainability in historic spaces, seamlessly blending past and present. These practices ensure a thoughtful and sustainable approach to preserving our architectural heritage. Learn more about our adaptive reuse and historic preservation work: https://lnkd.in/e9NPTX_A #HistoricalPreservation #AdaptiveReuse #SustainableDesign

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