AIA South Carolina

CALL FOR ENTRIES: AIA South Carolina Design & Chapter Awards!
2026-01-05 - 2026-02-20 | Cannon Green, Charleston, South Carolina
Click HERE for the Awards Portal

**ENTRIES USE CODE DESIGN2026 **

AIA South Carolina Design Awards
2026 AIASC DESIGN & CHAPTER AWARDS DATES:
SCHEDULE
Monday January 5, 2026 Awards portal opens HERE.
Friday Feb 6, 2026 Deadline for early bird discounted entry fees.
Friday Feb 20, 2026 Submissions must be completed no later than 11:59 p.m. ET
Thursday April 30, 2026 6-9 PM Awards Celebration.

COTE SC Webinar: Getting to Net-Zero Energy Before the RFP
2026-01-13 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York)
COTE SC Carbon-Focused Webinar Series

Part Two: Getting to Net-Zero Energy Before the RFP
Tuesday January 13, 12-1 PM
Presenters: Catalyst Partners
Format: Live One-hour lecture-based webinar accompanied by slides and Q&A
CEUs: Yes, 1 CEU/LU

Course Description:
The profession needs to advance high-performance in challenging markets and climate regions. The speaker describes the top five considerations that should be evaluated for every zero-net energy project during the pre-RFP process. Then, the speaker explains how to set a meaningful energy target on a proposed project – which is critical to achieving zero-net energy. Finally, the speaker identifies the crucial design decisions that make (or break) the potential for zero-net energy. The truth is that every energy model is WRONG to some degree – and yet they are essential to an integrative design process for high-performance project outcomes. In the spirit of the integrative process, at key points during the session, the audience will be prompted to participate in real-time performance modeling decision-making using cloud-based building energy modeling tools. In one specific example, a seemingly “good” decision when considered in isolation will be shown to be detrimental to overall energy performance when considered in the context of the whole building using dynamic real-time tools. The audience will also be introduced to “next generation” energy modeling using genetic algorithms to achieve design optimization solutions and total carbon modeling, which incorporates emerging processes and databases for assessing and optimizing embodied carbon intensity as part of a project lifecycle carbon assessment.
Learning Objectives:

Explain the top five design considerations of ZNE that need to be considered before responding to a request for proposal (RFP).
Identify specific design questions that a project team needs the building energy modeling effort to answer as early as pre-design.
Determine the appropriate tools to ensure that energy performance and lifecycle carbon goals will be achieved on any project.
Prepare a framework to effectively integrate early-stage building energy modeling within any firm’s culture and design practice.

Design Construction Partnership Legislative Reception
2026-01-14 17:00 - 19:00
Burr & Foreman
1221 Main St #1800, Columbia 29201

AIA Charleston Hard Hat Tour
2026-01-21 16:30 - 18:30
Get ready to kick off the new year with a unique hard hat tour followed by a fun happy hour – it’s going to be a blast!
DATE: Wednesday January 21
TIME: 4:30 PM
LOCATION: 71 George Street
AIA Charleston will kick off 2026 on January 21 with a downtown hard hat tour followed by a happy hour nearby- we would love to see you at either one or both!
Hard Hat Tour:
71 George Street
The College of Charleston Stern Student Center Renovation is a major transformation of a 76,000-square-foot facility in downtown Charleston. The project involves stripping the building to its concrete structure, reskinning the exterior, and demolishing an old pool to create additional programmatic space. The renovation includes two new restaurants, a dining area, a two-story multipurpose room, spaces for student government and organizations, a fitness center, and administrative offices. The design had to meet the strict requirements of the City of Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review, navigate a tight budget, and address complex existing conditions. Sustainability strategies aim to achieve Two Green Globes certification, focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials. This renovation will modernize the building while respecting Charleston’s historic aesthetic, creating a vibrant and environmentally responsible hub for student activities.
Project Size: 76,000 SF
Project Cost: $34M
We will meet at the site entrance at 4:30pm; street parking or parking garages are nearby. Closed-toe shoes, hard hats, and safety vests are required for all attendees; please bring your own as limited PPE will be available on site.
This event is open to AIA Members only and HSW Credit will be logged for all attendees.
Happy Hour: After the hard hat tour, we will meet nearby (Location TBD) for a happy hour at 5:30. We would love to see you even if you cannot make the hard hat tour!

AIA Columbia: 2026 Kickoff Happy Hour
2026-01-22 17:00 - 19:00
Join us at Gather COLA for drinks and appetizers as we begin the year with a casual happy hour to reconnect, introduce our 2026 Board Members, and preview upcoming AIA events

Can’t wait to see you there!

Join us as we begin the year with a casual Happy Hour to reconnect, introduce our 2026 Board Members, and preview upcoming AIA events.
Meet us in the Press Box at Gather Cola for drinks and appetizers!
Free for AIA members, $10 for non-members.

SCNOMA Architecture Club - Call for Volunteers!!
2026-01-27 08:00 - 17:00
SCNOMA – Call for Volunteers!!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!! The Architecture Club at the KROC Center of Greenville is in need of volunteers to help facilitate the experience. First session for the club started last week on September 16th, but don’t let that stop you from joining in! Architecture Club meets every two weeks until April of next year. The Architecture Club meets on Tuesdays from 4 – 5pm and your time is appreciated whether you can make it once or multiple times.
Please reach out to Jonathan Navarro or Michael Urueta or scan the QRcode to find out more about this volunteering opportunity!
Please email – jonathannavarro@ls3p.com
michaelurueta@ls3p.com

AIA Charleston: EP/YAF 2026 Kick-Off Happy Hour
2026-01-29 17:30 - 18:30
Toast to the year ahead with EP/YAF! Join us for happy hour as we connect and kick off the new year together.
Where: Edmund’s Oast Exchange
1081-B, 1079 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
When: Jan 29, 5:30pm
A tab will be open for apps and beverages.

AIA Charleston: EP/YAF 2026 Kick-Off Happy Hour
2026-01-29 17:30 - 19:00
Toast to the year ahead with EP/YAF! Join us for happy hour as we connect and kick off the new year together.

A tab will be open for apps and beverages.

AIA Greenville: Habitat For Humanity Opportunity
2026-01-30 09:00 - 15:30
Habitat For Humanity is having a Build Day on January 30, 2026 to kick off the new year! AIA Greenville has 20 available spots on this day for you to sign up! We will be putting up siding. There are two time slots available (10 spots per time slot), or you can work the whole day on site. See the links for each time slot below, and if you would like to register for the whole day you will need to register through both links. We look forward to seeing you there!!
You will need to fill out either an electronic waiver, or bring a signed waiver to the site when you arrive. By signing you are agreeing to abide by the Habitat Code of Conduct. Volunteers must be ages 16 and older. Please be sure to wear closed-toed flat soled shoes. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that could get snagged on the build site, and please wear clothing that you would not mind getting dirty.
Be sure to bring a water bottle, bagged lunch if you plan on staying all day, and tools if you have them.

Date: Friday, January 30, 2026
Times: 9:00am – 12:00 pm SIGN UP HERE
12:30pm – 3:30pm SIGN UP HERE
Where: 600 Pendelton Road, Greenville, SC 29611
Parking: Use the rear lot of the Cremation Society of SC – Westville Funerals at 6010 White Horse Rd. Then walk across Pendelton to the site. Please be wary of traffic!

COTE SC Webinar: Mastering AIA 2030 Commitment Reporting: From Signatory to Sustainability Champion
2026-02-10 12:00 - 13:00
COTE SC Carbon-Focused Webinar Series

Part Three: Mastering AIA 2030 Commitment Reporting: From Signatory to Sustainability Champion
Tuesday February 10, 12-1 PM
Presenters: LS3P
Heather Warren Associate AIA, LEED AP BD+C WELL AP, LS3P Sustainable Design Team, and AIA2030 Taskforce,
Isela Martinez AIA, LEED AP, LS3P Sustainable Design Team, and AIA2030 Taskforce,
with support from
Ethan Atherton AIA, LS3P Digital Technology Practice and AIA2030 Taskforce. We are in the practice of architecture, and AIA2030 reporting has been challenging for firms of all sizes, we want to share where we are in the process and that all of us are seeking to master it – it is a challenge!
Format: Live One-hour lecture-based webinar accompanied by slides, reporting portal and Q&A
CEUs: Yes, 1 CEU/LU
Course Description:
This hands-on webinar empowers architectural firms to confidently navigate and fulfill their reporting requirements under the AIA 2030 Commitment. Attendees will explore the step-by-step process of signing on, managing the Design Data Exchange (DDx), and strategically presenting predicted energy data to align with the net-zero by 2030 vision. Featuring practical tools, real-world examples, and expert insights, the session aims to equip firms with the knowledge and confidence to meet annual reporting mandates and drive continual performance improvement.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to:

Understand the Purpose & Significance

Describe the mission of the AIA 2030 Commitment and how it upholds the architecture profession’s role in achieving carbon neutral buildings by 2030.

Become a Signatory

Identify and navigate the initial steps to sign the Commitment, including creating a firm account in AIA’s Design Data Exchange (DDx) and submitting the commitment letter.

Master Annual Reporting via DDx

Clarify reporting windows—typically January through March with the due date of March 31—and recognize that firms may access and input data year-round.

Capture Required Data Parameters

Enumerate the essential data fields required for each project, including:

Project stage (conceptual, schematic, development, construction docs)
Project scope (architectural with HVAC/envelope changes or interiors with lighting design)
Geographic location (country, zip code or city)
Baseline Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and predicted EUI (pEUI), leveraged via AIA’s Zero Tool or other baselines
Whether actual energy use data is tracked
For interiors-only: lighting power density and applicable energy code defaults

Engage with Expanded Metrics

Incorporate new elements into the reporting, such as:

Fuel sources to enable Operational Carbon Intensity (OCI)
Embodied Carbon Intensity (ECI) via Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment (WBLCA)
Participation in the new Embodied Carbon-Only project page within DDx

Interpret Reporting Outcomes

Analyze “By the Numbers” reporting summaries—e.g., in 2023, 490 firms reported ~24,742 projects across nearly 4 billion GSF; a 50% pEUI reduction plateau; 7,067 projects included embodied carbon data; renewables featured in 2,163 projects; and approximately 38.5 million metric tons of CO₂ avoided.Improve Firm Performance Year-over-Year
Learn how consistent annual reporting fosters data-driven improvements in design outcomes, supports firm benchmarking, elevates sustainability culture, and informs recruitment or client proposals.

Leverage AIA Resources & Community Support

Navigate available support tools such as DDx help pages, how-to videos, recorded webinars, and open office hours—especially helpful

AIA Leadership Summit 2026
2026-02-11 08:00 - 2026-02-14 17:00
AIALS 2026 is happening February 11–14, 2026, at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C. It’s your opportunity to connect with nearly 700 AIA members, volunteer leaders, and chapter executives from across the country. Over four days, you’ll strengthen your leadership skills, align advocacy with leadership for greater impact, and apply best practices in association management.
This year’s event highlights include:

A powerful keynote from April Rinne, futurist and author of Flux, sharing the “Flux Mindset”—empowering leaders to embrace change, rethink success, and turn uncertainty into growth and innovation.
Capitol Hill visits with members of Congress from your state to influence policy.
Excellence in Board Leadership, a focused half-day session for executive directors, presidents, and presidents-elect to elevate governance, strategy, and leadership excellence.
Carole Wedge, FAIA, AIA’s new EVP/CEO, offering firsthand insights into AIA’s strategic priorities and future direction.
Networking and community with hundreds of like-minded peers.
Curated CE tracks on association management, leadership, advocacy, chapter innovation, and member engagement.
Engagement with AIA staff across departments for personalized insights and support.
Insights on the latest legislative and policy developments shaping the profession—and how your voice can make an impact.

Use your voice, share your expertise, and make an impact—join us at AIA Leadership Summit 2026.
Register today >

AIA Charleston: CSI Charleston 33rd Annual Oyster Roast
2026-02-20 18:00 - 21:00
Join us for our upcoming annual AIA/CSI Oyster Roast!

AIA Charleston / CSI Annual Oyster Roast at Founders Hall
Join AIA Charleston and CSI for an evening of oysters, conversation, and connection with colleagues across the design and construction community. This joint oyster roast is a chance to step away from the office, enjoy a Lowcountry staple, and strengthen relationships between architects, specifiers, contractors, and industry partners.
Attendees can expect freshly roasted oysters, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere designed to encourage networking and camaraderie. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to either organization, this event is a great opportunity to connect, catch up, and celebrate the collaborative spirit that shapes our work.
We look forward to seeing you there!

AIA Charleston: Hard Hat Tour
2026-02-26 16:30 - 18:30
February 26 – Hard Hat Tour
Join us for a hard hat tour of this unique building !
DATE: February 26
TIME: 4:30
LOCATION: 211 Seven Farms Drive
Located adjacent to the Daniel Island Commemorative Park and the Credit One Stadium, this three-story, 24,000 SF mixed-use building includes a dermatology office and five high-end residential condos over underground parking. The design emphasizes views towards the park and stadium for the residential units and creates a dynamic building that takes advantage of the natural topography of the site. The new structure features a butterfly roof that relates to the iconic form of the nearby stadium. The design is contemporary yet blends with the more traditional Daniel Island architecture. An inviting public porch activates Seven Farms Drive while generous private porches overlook the lush landscape of the adjacent park.
The exterior is nearing completion, but the interior is in various phases of construction. Join us for an informative tour of this mixed use building.
We will meet at the site entrance at 4:30pm; Daniel Island has free street parking or there is a large parking lot behind the building. Closed-toe shoes, hard hats, and safety vests are required for all attendees; please bring your own as limited PPE will be available on site.
This event is open to AIA Members only and HSW Credit will be logged for all attendees.

Happy Hour : After the hard hat tour, we will meet nearby (Location TBD) for a happy hour at 5:30. We would love to see you even if you cannot make the hard hat tour!

SAVE THE DATE: Resilience By Design 2026
2026-04-29 09:00 - 16:00 | Clemson Architecture Center.
Resilience by Design 2026 conference is coming!
Wednesday April 29, 9 AM – 4 PM, Clemson Center for Architecture
We’re doing things a little different this year by aligning this event with the AIA SC Annual Meeting and Design & Chapter Awards in Charleston. Come for the Resilience By Design and stay for more events that week.
We are also teaming up with our new COTE SC (Committee on the Environment) to bring them into the conversations and further broaden our audience.
Registration portal, speaker and agenda announcements coming soon!
Combined Welcome Reception to follow the conference at the Building Arts.

SAVE THE DATE: AIA South Carolina 2026 Annual Meeting +
2026-04-30 09:00 - 16:00 | Cannon Green, Charleston, South Carolina
Join us in Charleston, SC! This year’s Annual Meeting is scheduled to line up as a multi-event conference week.
You will have the option to pick and choose which events to attend and bundled discounts will be available.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 29
the Resilience By Design, a firm crawl, a welcome reception
THURSDAY APRIL 30
Educational workshops
Annual Keynote Speaker
New Architect Recognition Luncheon
Annual Meeting
Annual Design Awards Ceremony and Celebration
FRIDAY MAY 1
Past President’s Breakfast
4 tracks of Educational Tours
SATURDAY MAY 2
SAP training, and more!

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SAVE THE DATE: 2026 Design & Chapter Awards Ceremony & Celebration
2026-04-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Cannon Green, Charleston, South Carolina
Join us in Charleston, SC! This year’s Annual Meeting is scheduled to line up as a multi-event conference week.
You will have the option to pick and choose which events to attend and bundled discounts will be available.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 29
the Resilience By Design, a firm crawl, a welcome reception
THURSDAY APRIL 30
Educational workshops
Annual Keynote Speaker
New Architect Recognition Luncheon
Annual Meeting
Annual Design Awards Ceremony and Celebration
FRIDAY MAY 1
Past President’s Breakfast
4 tracks of Educational Tours
SATURDAY MAY 2
SAP training, and more!

SAVE THE DATE: CHARLESTON DESIGN TOURS
2026-05-01 09:00 - 16:00
Join us in Charleston, SC! This year’s Annual Meeting is scheduled to line up as a multi-event conference week.
You will have the option to pick and choose which events to attend and bundled discounts will be available.

WEDNESDAY APRIL 29
Resilience By Design Conference
Firm Crawl
Welcome Reception
THURSDAY APRIL 30
Educational workshops
Annual Keynote Speaker
New Architect Recognition Luncheon
Annual Meeting
Annual Design Awards Ceremony and Celebration
FRIDAY MAY 1
Past President’s Breakfast
4 tracks of Educational Tours
SATURDAY MAY 2
SAP training, and more!

AIA AAH SAR: 16th Annual South Atlantic Regional Architecture + Health Chautauqua
2026-08-21 09:00 - 16:00
CHAUTAUQUA IS ON FRIDAY AUGUST 21, 2026
Welcome Party and Tour Thursday August 20, 5-7 PM at the Pearl, Charlotte, NC

Join us in Charlotte at The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City for Integrating Health, Learning, and Innovation: Advancing Design for the Next Generation of Care

The 16th Annual South Atlantic Regional Architecture + Health Chautauqua is aligned with the Academy of Architecture for Health (AAH), a knowledge community of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). Our goal is to bring national caliber content to regional practitioners unable to attend the larger national conferences. This unique one-day conference historically attracts between 80-120 healthcare architects, engineers, designers, health system representatives, and industry sponsors to engage in dialogue about the latest, relevant trends in the healthcare design industry. The inspiration for this small-scale intimate event stems from the idea of a Chautauqua where interaction and exchange between all participants is encouraged at each session and in the concluding panel session.
