AIA East Bay recently welcomed Carole Wedge, FAIA, EVP/CEO of the American Institute of Architects, for a day of conversations and site visits highlighting the creativity, leadership, and evolving practice models shaping architecture in the East Bay.
The visit began with a morning tour of Ratcliff in Emeryville, hosted by CEO and Principal Dan Wetherell. The firm shared insights into its work and ongoing efforts shaping the region’s built environment.
From there, a group of local architects and firm leaders gathered for lunch at Gather in Berkeley, located in the David Brower Center. The conversation brought together voices from across the profession, including leaders from Devi Dutta Architecture, Nystrom Design Studio, Pyatok, ELS Architecture, Dahlin Group, Noll and Tam Architects, Arkin Tilt Architects, and HKIT Architects. The lunch created space for a lively discussion about the future of the profession and the evolving role architects play in shaping communities.
"What stood out most during my visit was the spirit of collaboration and innovation across the East Bay architecture community. It is a place where ideas are clearly turning into meaningful work."
The afternoon concluded in Oakland with a visit to Design Draw Build, hosted by CEO Tyler Kobick. The tour sparked an energizing conversation about challenging traditional practice models and redefining what an architecture firm can look like today. Participants also discussed the growing importance of business acumen in practice, noting that as firms grow, leadership and management skills become as critical as design excellence.
“One of the most energizing parts of our visit was the conversation at Design Draw Build about challenging traditional practice models and rethinking what architecture firms can be. As firms grow, developing strong business skills alongside design excellence is becoming essential across the profession."
Together, the visits offered a snapshot of the energy and diversity of architectural practice in the East Bay, and the community’s shared commitment to mentoring the next generation, strengthening practice, and advancing resilience in the built environment.
AIA East Bay thanks the firms and members who participated and helped showcase the depth of talent and leadership within our local architecture community.