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Perry Cofield AIA
Design Ways & Means Architects
Arlington VA
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Though members of AIA doubtless contributed to the projects shown in the James Hardy Design Manual, the visible contribution of AIA as an Institute to the interests of the average homeowner, and much of the public, is too negligible to consider. That is because AIA awards a consistent image for all projects, be they commercial, institutional, or residential. That image is increasingly abstract, minimalist, and devoid of symbolism. If anything, the awarded homes are the most abstract! Years ago Bob Yale, a DC residential architect, declared "consistency is no virtue". If AIA could ever get this through its head, it might have a shot with John Q public. Public is fine with Bauhaus commercial, but prefers to live in cottages of some sort. To confuse image with utility is hubris of the most destructive sort. The AIA's approach to environmental stewardship is not leadership- it is folly. To so visibly detach yourself from the issues of the sprawl machine is to detach yourself from America. May as well take the A off of IA.