American Institute of Architects New York Chapter

Founded in 1857, AIA New York is the oldest and largest chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The Chapter’s members include over 5,000 practicing architects, allied professionals, students, and public members interested in architecture and design. AIA New York is dedicated to three goals: design excellence, public outreach, and professional development. To fulfill its mission, the Chapter organizes an array of initiatives, programs and exhibitions that explore topics vital to the architecture profession, including housing, planning, historic preservation, and urban design. Learn more about its storefront, the Center for Architecture, a gathering place for all those interested in the built environment. The Chapter coordinates the activities of more than 25 committees and works with the Center for Architecture K-12 education and development teams to provide scholarship and educational opportunities for students and the general public. Each year, AIA New York also hosts a Design Awards Program to recognize design excellence in three categories: architecture, interior architecture, and projects. In addition, the Chapter publishes a quarterly print magazine, Oculus, and a bi-weekly digital newsletter. HISTORY The history of AIANY reflects that of New York City and all the ferment, folly, frustration, fun, and high hopes of this complex urban center. The timeline below also gathers the contributions of individual members, both locally and internationally, who represent the broadest cross-section of interests, backgrounds, and talents appropriate to the founding chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). AIANY endeavors to be at the forefront of sustainability, practice, planning, technology, and equity—the things that really interest and affect our members and our global city.