Set in a region defined by dramatic natural context, vibrant international trade, industrial innovation, ecological stewardship, and cultural diversity, this year’s program explored Designing Belonging: Reciprocity, Resilience, and Regeneration.
A curated bus tour program guided by architects, educators, clients, and community partners, this program highlighted outstanding projects across the continuum of learning and offers direct and place-based insight into how Seattle’s design community is advancing equity, belonging, and sustainability in AIA award winning work. Across four days, participants experienced a wide range of Puget Sound’s forward-thinking environments for life-long learning, engaging with visionaries and scholars to gain firsthand exposure and appreciation of what makes these projects impactful for the well-being of students and communities across all ages.
The conference showcased projects that reflect the continuum of lifelong learning:
• Highlighted projects included James Baldwin Elementary, Blakely Elementary, Northwood Elementary, and Surprise Lake Middle —each a unique site thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of its community and our youngest learners.
• For secondary education, University Prep’s U-Lab and the SAMi Science and Math Institute demonstrate diverse approaches to engaging students in innovative learning environments.
• Higher education projects feature Seattle University’s Sinegal Center for Science and Innovation, along with an impressive array of the University of Washington projects across multiple campuses, including Discovery Hall, Innovation Hall, and Founder's Hall, among others.
• Finally, to illustrate how learning is cultivated throughout our lives, the tour also highlighted award-winning projects across the city that enrich the broader community including the Wagner Education Center at the Center for Wooden Boats and the Burke Museum.
Each setting was curated to create a powerful backdrop for conversations linking physical infrastructure with social systems, which is especially relevant as schools navigate post pandemic realities, climate adaptation, and increased focus on emotional and mental health.