Business Details
AIA Iowa | Promoting Architectural Excellence
We are the voice of the architectural profession in Iowa, dedicated to advancing design excellence and advocating for the built environment. Our organization serves architects, design professionals, and allied partners through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Founded to protect public health, safety, and welfare through design, we foster innovation and recognize outstanding architectural achievements across the state. Our headquarters at the Iowa Center for Architecture in Des Moines supports statewide initiatives, including award programs that celebrate excellence in new construction and craftsmanship. We provide resources for architectural enthusiasts, educators, and clients through our Discover Iowa Architecture platform, featuring award-winning projects and historical works by iconic architects like Frank Lloyd Wright.Our team of experienced professionals offers expertise in architectural advocacy, education, and outreach, connecting Iowans with design solutions that enhance quality of life. We collaborate with Iowa architects and firms to address contemporary design challenges while preserving the state's architectural heritage. Through public outreach and professional development, we empower architects to create sustainable, functional spaces that meet evolving community needs. Our commitment to transparency and accessibility is reflected in our open directory of Iowa architecture firms and educational resources available to the public. As a chapter of the American Institute of Architects, we uphold national standards while addressing Iowa-specific architectural priorities.
Services
Architectural Advocacy
Design Awards Programs
Professional Education
Public Outreach
Historical Preservation
Highlights and features
- We advocate for architectural excellence through state-specific programs and national AIA standards
- Our award-winning projects showcase Iowa's architectural innovation and craftsmanship
- We provide educational resources and professional development for Iowa architects
- Our Discover Iowa Architecture platform connects clients with qualified design professionals
- We maintain historical records of iconic architects' contributions to Iowa's built environment
Services
Architectural Advocacy
We champion architectural excellence through policy initiatives and professional standards. Our advocacy protects public health, safety, and welfare while promoting sustainable design practices. We represent Iowa architects in legislative matters and community planning discussions.
Design Awards Programs
Our annual awards recognize outstanding architectural achievements across Iowa. We celebrate excellence in new construction, craftsmanship, and design innovation through multiple competitive categories. These programs highlight projects that demonstrate exceptional response to site, context, and community needs.
Professional Education
We offer continuing education programs for licensed architects and design professionals. Our curriculum covers emerging design trends, building technologies, and regulatory requirements. Educational initiatives include workshops, seminars, and online learning resources.
Public Outreach
Our outreach initiatives connect the public with architectural resources and historical information. We maintain the Discover Iowa Architecture platform featuring award-winning projects and historical works. We organize events that promote appreciation for Iowa's architectural heritage.
Historical Preservation
We document and promote Iowa's architectural history through curated collections and digital archives. Our programs highlight works by iconic architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and preserve records of Prairie School architecture. We support efforts to maintain historically significant buildings across the state.
People
Jessica Reinert
Executive Director
Jessica leads AIA Iowa's strategic initiatives and organizational operations. With extensive experience in architectural advocacy, she connects professionals with resources to advance design excellence across Iowa.
Vicki Scott
Finance & Membership Director
Vicki manages financial operations and membership programs for AIA Iowa. She ensures organizational sustainability while supporting members through tailored professional development opportunities and networking events.
Colette Sheaff
Communications & Education Manager
Colette oversees educational programming and communication initiatives. She develops curriculum for continuing education and manages outreach efforts to promote Iowa's architectural heritage and contemporary design achievements.
Chris Huling
Outreach & Programming Manager
Chris coordinates community engagement programs and special events. He develops initiatives that connect the public with architectural resources while supporting Iowa architects through professional networking opportunities.
Margaret Godwin
Administrative Coordinator
Margaret provides operational support for AIA Iowa's programs. She assists with event coordination, member services, and administrative functions that enable the organization to serve Iowa's architectural community effectively.
Questions
What is AIA Iowa's primary mission?
We advocate for architectural excellence, provide professional resources, and promote design innovation across Iowa.
How can I find Iowa architects?
Visit our website's directory featuring qualified architects and firms throughout Iowa.
Do you offer educational programs?
Yes, we provide continuing education courses and professional development opportunities for architects.
Are building tours available?
Our Discover Iowa Architecture platform includes information about notable buildings and their historical significance.
How are award winners selected?
Projects are evaluated by professional juries based on design excellence, community impact, and technical achievement.
Can the public access your resources?
Yes, our online platform offers free access to architectural information and historical records.
