My Journey with CRAN®
It has been more than a dozen years since I attended my first Custom Residential Architects Network (CRAN) Symposium in Newport, RI. At the time, I was leading a single-family residential group within a large Boston architectural firm. That symposium left a lasting impression on me with its inspiring home tours, which ranged from a grand Newport mansion to a “hard hat” tour of a house under construction. The event offered a variety of talks, including in-depth explorations of the design foundations of New England architecture and practical discussions on the benefits of collaborating with real estate and marketing professionals to grow our businesses. From that first experience, I realized that I had found my professional community—people who share my passion and values. There was much to take back to Boston’s local Residential Design Committee, so that we could become more deeply involved in the National CRAN committee.
Stepping into Leadership
As of January 2026, I am honored to take on the role of chair of our CRAN Knowledge Community within the AIA. This new responsibility is both humbling and motivating. The previous year, led by the inspiring Marica McKeel, set a high standard, and I recognize that following in her footsteps will be a challenge. However, I believe there is still much we can accomplish together.
The Unique Role of Residential Architects
Residential architects hold a unique position to make a significant impact in every community where we practice. With the demand for housing in the United States higher than ever, each of us is uniquely suited to step up and contribute meaningfully. We are trained to deliver beautiful, thoughtful designs and to offer creative solutions that enhance our clients’ lives. Wherever your practice is based, remember that our work has the power to improve lives in real, tangible ways.
The Value of Community
The support of the CRAN community elevates the quality of our work. Knowing that fellow residential architects share similar experiences fosters valuable relationships and mutual understanding within our profession. When our local CRAN chapters interact together and with the National CRAN group, we become a powerful force.
Looking Ahead to 2026
In the coming year, you will have many opportunities to engage with the depth and breadth of CRAN. Look out for our AIAU presentations, where we strive to stay ahead of industry trends—this year, we are preparing a session on Artificial Intelligence. CRAN will also host a Forum during the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design in June.
Please mark your calendars for the CRAN Symposium in San Antonio, Texas, from September 23 to 26. One of our first symposiums was held in Austin, Texas, and returning to the state promises to be an eye-opening experience, especially for those more accustomed to colder climates. Comparing and contrasting the design and functional challenges of the area should be educational. The event will feature presentations on San Antonio’s rich architectural history, showcase its talented residential architects and design professionals, and offer a few surprises. The home tours will undoubtedly be a highlight, and we also aim to spotlight new technologies in building products and design processes.
Throughout the year, the CRAN leadership will continue to work nationally and locally to highlight the value of good residential design. I hope that you will join me on this journey.
Ellen Perko, AIA
2026 Chair, Custom Residential Architects Network