2024 American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (AIA|LA) Design Awards Celebrate Excellence in Architecture and Community at New Center for Communities.

Los Angeles, CA, October 31, 2024— Held on October 30 at the brand-new AIA|LA and Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA) Center for Communities, the 2024 AIA|LA Design Awards launched with a memorable comedic sketch between Monica Rodriguez, AIA—architect by day and stand-up comedian by night—and Moxie the Robot, humorously dissecting the current state of architecture and speculating on AI’s impact on the profession. This lively opening set a spirited tone for the evening, making it clear that architecture has both a bold and a humorous future ahead.

This year’s awards marked a historic first at the new Center. This innovative venue aims to unite the architectural community with the public it serves, and last night’s event established it as the ideal hub for celebrating visionary design and the transformative role of AIA|LA within the built environment in Los Angeles.

Presenters of the night brought the awards to life with deep expertise and enthusiasm. The NEXT LA category, spotlighting groundbreaking unbuilt projects, was introduced by architects and distinguished jurors Rachel Allen, AIA, and Lisa Little, AIA. Their presentations highlighted the innovative thinking that propels Los Angeles architecture forward. Following the NEXT LA awards, the Design Awards Built category, honoring exceptional completed projects that elevate design standards, was presented by 2024 AIA|LA’s Design Awards Chair and Vice-Chair Alyce Wallace, Assoc. AIA, and Hansol Park, AIA. Their introductions brought to light the transformative potential of each winning project, inspiring the audience with design’s endless possibilities.

The AIA|LA Board of Directors also took the stage to honor exemplary contributions through the Board of Directors Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations with significant impacts on both the profession and the community. A highlight of the evening was AIA|LA President Annette Wu’s presentation of the prestigious Gold Medal to Debra Gerod, FAIA, honoring her lifetime contributions to architecture and the Los Angeles community.

This year’s ceremony was more than just an awards night; it was an introduction to the new AIA|LA and ACLA Center for Communities, a space destined to serve as the heart of Los Angeles architecture. The Center represents a new chapter for AIA|LA, providing architects, designers, and community members with a place to come together, exchange ideas, and cultivate solutions for the future of Los Angeles. The event marked a historic milestone as AIA|LA launched this game-changing space, inviting the public to engage in the city’s architectural evolution.

"We’re thrilled to introduce the Center to our members and the broader community," said Carlo Caccavale, Hon. AIA|LA, Executive Director of AIA|LA and ACLA. "This space elevates our capacity to serve both the profession and Los Angeles, setting a new standard in how we connect, collaborate, and create lasting impact."

The 2024 Design Awards underscored the remarkable creativity, commitment, and forward-thinking vision of the Los Angeles architecture community, making a compelling case for architecture’s essential role in shaping vibrant, resilient cities. 

DESIGN AWARDS WINNERS  HERE

NEXT LA WINNERS  HERE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESS RELASE  HERE

About AIA|LA

The American Institute of Architects Los Angeles chapter (AIA|LA) supports architects and design professionals throughout the region, promoting excellence in the built environment and fostering a strong, inclusive architectural community. With initiatives that reach beyond architecture into policy, advocacy, and community engagement, AIA|LA strives to elevate the role of design in building a better Los Angeles.

For more information about AIA|LA and the Center for Communities, please visit www.aialosangeles.org or email c arlo@aialosangeles.org