Area Business
Email
Print
Study: Triad could benefit from architect training
It suggests creation of a regional architectural design center, use of existing buildings
ADVERTISEMENT
Published: July 3, 2009
Architecture can serve as a key cog in a Triad economic engine built around design innovations, according to a report released yesterday by the Piedmont Triad Partnership.
But for that to happen, the study found, there must be more collaboration between local architectural firms and universities, including creating a Center for Architecture and Design in the region and establishing accredited architectural undergraduate and graduate programs.
Other goals include promoting the sustainable reuse of existing buildings, particularly historic buildings.
"We believe there exists in the Piedmont Triad a rare opportunity for a new kind of collaboration -- from a very different point of view -- between architects, their community and educators from a variety of settings," the report said.
The report recommends that the first step be the architectural design center, which could be similar in scope to the Center for Design Innovation in downtown Winston-Salem.
A longer-term goal would be establishing the degree programs by 2021, accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board, at High Point University, N.C. A&T State University or UNC Greensboro. Included would be a three-year graduate program that offers night and weekend courses.
"The work to build a culture of architectural education in the Piedmont Triad could begin now with an appreciation of existing resources," according to the report.
"It could then progress to the establishment of a center or institute, to be shared by the entire community for activities focused on a particular vision. Eventually, that center/institute could become an enhancement for an accredited program established by one or more of the schools."
The study team, comprised of educators from several universities and local architects, said that the academic programs are needed "to grow the professional architecture community and to accommodate the need for future architects and the industry here."
"The information revealed in this report has the potential to catalyze and develop all the architecture stakeholders in the region -- practitioners, educators and the greater Piedmont Triad community," said Ken Mayer, a principal with Moser Mayer Phoenix of Greensboro.
The partnership expects Forsyth Technical Community College and the UNC School of the Arts to participate in the initiative.
Other goals include:
□ Foster collaborations to promote distinctive design and innovation competencies within the higher-education and creative-industry communities;
□ Build partnerships with existing design groups, including the Creative Enterprises cluster, Higher Education Innovations Council, Center for Design Innovation and the N.C. State and UNC Charlotte schools of design.
□ Support a large-scale commercial studio-production operation in the Triad.
■ Richard Craver can be reached at 727-7376 or at rcraver@wsjournal.com.
Email
Print
