Dear colleagues and friends,
I’m still carrying the energy from our recent Interfaith Design Knowledge Community Forum at AIA25 in Boston. It was more than a gathering—it felt like a shared moment of reflection, curiosity, and connection. To sit in a room with architects, designers, and scholars from so many faith traditions and perspectives, and to explore how sacred spaces are evolving in our time, was truly inspiring.
We touched on profound themes—symbolism, sustainability, the respectful reuse of religious buildings—and asked hard questions about what it means to design spaces that honor both tradition and contemporary needs. The conversations were fluid, thoughtful, and often deeply personal. I was especially moved by the shared recognition that sacred architecture is shifting: from spiritual sanctuaries to community-centered spaces, and from permanence to adaptability.
What excites me most is what comes next. Ideas sparked at the Forum—like showcasing projects, fostering academic writing, and creating new platforms for dialogue—are already taking root. If you left Boston feeling energized, I hope you’ll stay connected and help us build on that momentum. Whether it’s through a webinar, a community hub, or simply reaching out, your voice matters.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Warmly,
Elisabeth Bakker Johnson, AIA
Chair, Interfaith Design Knowledge Community