American Institute of Architects

As the largest design organization in the world, AIA is working to transform the day-to-day practice of architecture to achieve a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just, equitable built environment, for everyone.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST

  • ( ~ 30 minutes ) 

    As cities continue to grow, incorporating synthetic surfacing into rooftop spaces offers a safe, practical, and innovative solution to creating more livable, attractive, and resilient urban environments. The course explores synthetic rooftop surfacing, including its applications; environmental, health, and safety benefits; and product, manufacturer, and installer certifications. Also discussed is how synthetic turf can contribute to achieving certification in LEED® v4.1 Building Design and Construction, Sustainable SITES Initiative® v2, and the WELL Building Standard™ version 2.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Undesirable acoustics in educational spaces have long been considered averse to our goals to effectively teach, create, collaborate, listen, and learn. Now, in the wake of implementing pandemic protocols, our acoustic comfort in these spaces is greatly challenged. This course examines the impacts of poor soundscapes in educational facilities and introduces innovative solutions for improving acoustics in these areas while keeping us comfortable and safe from exposure to emerging viruses.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The primary purpose of a roof is to provide shelter and protection; to do so effectively over the long term, proper drainage and ventilation are required. Presented here are the categories of metal roofing, the moisture- and noise-related issues associated with architectural metal roofs, the use of a three-dimensional drainage and ventilation mat as a solution to these issues, and best practices for incorporating a mat in metal and cedar roof assemblies.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Aluminum Full View (AFV) doors are a fast growing segment within the building product industry. They have a wide range of applications in a variety of building types. This course will look at potential applications and building types, options for installation, and custom options in design when specifying AFV doors.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Explore the intricate realm of access control systems, with a focus on integrating electrified hardware and how to effectively specify access to facilities. Become familiar with electrified hardware components such as electric strikes, magnetic locks, electrified panic devices, and electrical locksets and how they interact with access control systems to regulate entry and exit points while meeting code requirements.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Building owners have come to rely on weatherable coatings to provide long-term protection to their buildings. With an increased focus on sustainability, performance, and durability, PVDF resin-based coatings can help architects and painting contractors exceed their clients’ design goals. This course covers the key components and functions of high-performance weatherable coatings and looks at how these coatings contribute to sustainable design.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    The acoustical comfort level in the workplace is a key measure of the quality of the indoor environment for building occupants. This course explores key concepts and characteristics of sound, as well as speech intelligibility and privacy and their associated acoustical remedies. Also presented is the use of sound absorbers and diffusers as acoustical solutions to noise problems.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    It is an expectation that today’s buildings have to be more than just aesthetically pleasing: they have to provide measurable environmental benefits. This course outlines how insulated concrete forms (ICFs) help meet sustainable design objectives and examines the advantages that ICFs and ICF technology have over conventional construction materials for building envelopes in all building types.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Vapor barriers beneath concrete slabs on grade are critical for controlling moisture vapor infiltration from the ground. This course provides an overview of vapor barriers used beneath concrete slabs on grade and in crawl spaces, showcasing common flooring failures that occur when a slab is not properly protected. We’ll explore how moisture enters and moves in the concrete, review key prevention and testing methods, and examine relevant industry standards and specification guidance. Finally, we’ll apply these concepts to practical case studies.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    People are captivated by birds, and for many, they hold intrinsic value. However, millions of birds collide with glass every year, significantly impacting avian populations. This course examines the ecological services that birds perform that impact human wellness and safety and reviews how bird-friendly glass can mitigate collisions. Various bird-friendly glass examples are also identified, and design guidelines and existing legislation mandating bird-friendly buildings is discussed.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Advancements in composite decking technology are transforming the way outdoor spaces are designed and built, particularly in multifamily settings where effective water management is critical. This course introduces mineral-based composite decking systems and their role in eliminating the need for secondary membranes. Learners will explore how these all-in-one solutions streamline installation, reduce long-term maintenance costs, and help prevent common issues such as mold, decay, and water intrusion. The course also highlights how well-designed outdoor amenities can foster social connection, support resident well-being, and enhance the value of shared spaces.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Movable pool and spa floor technology enables an entirely flexible, multifunctional living and recreational space to complement any architectural vision. Presented here are types of movable pool floors, pool floor technology, options and amenities, and safety and sustainability performance considerations.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Natural light is important in everyday life, with positive effects on one's health, well-being, and productivity. This course provides an understanding of how automated high-performance shades can provide more natural light. Current market drivers and their effects on a building's value are also discussed. The course explores how to increase visual and thermal comfort by automating the balance of natural and artificial light and outlines the role of high-performance shades in meeting sustainability standards. This course also discusses the influence of automated façades on a building’s performance.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    Architects and designers have many options for specifying site furniture products for their projects. Selecting materials and finishes is an integral part of this process, yet making material selections has become more and more complex. The course examines conditions and constraints of outdoor environments; evaluates materials commonly used in outdoor applications; discusses using green building standards and rating systems, and the role of suppliers as resources for material selection; and provides examples of products that adhere to a higher environmental standard.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architectural glazing systems are vital to building performance, influencing energy efficiency, structural integrity, and aesthetics. This course compares storefront and curtain wall systems, explores performance optimization strategies, and examines their contribution to sustainability. Participants will gain the technical knowledge needed to develop effective product specifications.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Daylight is an essential part of our health and well-being, but it needs management. Shading strives to maximize daylight without compromising building occupant comfort and well-being. This course explores the role daylight has within the built environment and its impact on occupants and energy usage, with a focus on how to better specify shadecloth based on factors such as project type, solar optical properties, shadecloth composition, and environmental factors.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Corrosion is a significant concern for interior and exterior metal doors and frames, primarily due to the constant exposure to environmental factors like moisture, humidity, salts, and chemicals. Corrosion not only affects the aesthetics of these structures but also compromises their structural integrity and performance. This presentation reviews the causes, types, impacts, and treatments of corrosion in metal doors and frames. It examines how preventive measures related to materials and door design and construction inhibit corrosion, contributing to a durable, safe, and functional entryway and exit.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Learners will receive information about cast stone and how it is made, testing requirements, applications, design recommendations, and how it differs from related materials. Learners will describe appropriate specification, design details of cast stone for architectural applications, and how to determine quality cast stone production.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Architects and other design professionals have a critical role to play in reducing global greenhouse gas emissions through building design and product selection. The urgent need to reduce both operational and embodied carbon means that building designers must be familiar with transparency documents that facilitate low-carbon product selection. In this course, we review the types of carbon of concern, transparency documents that provide critical information, and tools for sourcing embodied carbon information. We also look at the contribution of insulated metal panels to both low embodied and low operational carbon buildings.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Fire safety and suppression are essential design features for building projects. This course explores how innovative water mist fire suppression systems can enhance occupant safety in homes while preserving aesthetics and minimizing water damage. Key design principles of electronically controlled water mist systems are examined, and their installation and maintenance are described. Also discussed is guidance for dealing with code officials when using these systems as an alternative to traditional fire sprinklers.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 30 minutes ) 

    Attic ventilation is an important component in proper structural design. By encouraging airflow, attic ventilation plays a key role in maintaining structural integrity, ensuring roof component durability, providing a healthy indoor environment, and minimizing energy consumption. Additionally, proper attic ventilation hinders or prevents mold growth, reduces interior pollutants, and acts as a pivotal fire prevention tool. This course looks at how attic ventilation systems work, the benefits they provide, and the associated building codes and regulations.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Properly selected acoustical solutions are necessary to provide acoustical comfort and performance for a range of applications. This course reviews acoustic theory and design methodology to facilitate the design and specification process. A particular emphasis is placed on performance-oriented designs and strategies for different project types.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    One of the most complex and least understood areas where fire can propagate is at the perimeter of a multistory building. Fire can spread not only from floor to floor via the edge-of-slab/curtain wall intersections but also along the exterior building enclosure where untested, combustible components are often installed. This program outlines best design practices for providing fire protection for building occupants per ASTM E2307 and ASTM E2874.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour, 15 minutes ) 

    This course provides an in-depth overview of recycling and waste diversion programs, focusing on effective planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic bin placement. It offers practical guidance on selecting bins, designing consistent signage, and using communication strategies to improve user compliance. The course also explores additional methods to reduce waste at the source and covers techniques for continuous monitoring and adaptation to achieve long-term sustainability goals.

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  • ( ~ 1 hour ) 

    Lightweight, prefinished, and factory-fabricated insulated metal panels (IMPs) offer building owners a durable, cost-efficient, and easy-to-install roofing system that provides an air barrier, vapor barrier, and insulation all in one product. This course discusses the characteristics of IMPs and the installation process and explains why IMPs are ideally suited for pre-engineered and structural steel buildings. The role of IMPs in a building’s hygrothermal control layers and IMP code compliance are reviewed.

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Displaying 1 - 25 of 605 results.

FIRST [1-25] [26-50] [51-75] [76-100] [101-125] NEXT LAST