5.13.08 FROM Texas Historical Commission The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program, an initiative of the Texas Historical Commission (THC) designed to preserve and restore historic county courthouses throughout Texas, received the Preserve America Presidential Award today during a special White House ceremony. This is the second Presidential Award for the THC. The Texas Heritage Trails Program was honored in May 2005. The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program was selected for its exemplary commitment to preserving historic architecture, which serves to revitalize Texas' historic downtown districts by sparking a resurgence in economic development and an increased interest in heritage travel. "This is a tremendous honor," said THC Vice Chairman David Gravelle, who attended the White House ceremony. Many people have put a great deal of hard work into this program and it is wonderful to see it recognized at the federal level. This program exemplifies how important their history is to Texans, and 100 years from now when someone looks upon one of these restored 'temples of justice' he or she will recognize how important of a role it plays in that history." The nationally recognized Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program was created in 1999 by Gov. George W. Bush and the Texas Legislature to provide partial matching grants to Texas counties to preserve their historic county courthouses. The program's far-reaching success has helped Texas counties from the Red River to the Rio Grande and assisted hamlets like Anderson and Sierra Blanca, to name a few. These temples of justice are beacons of democracy that create a unique architectural mosaic throughout the state. However, many of the more than 230 historic courthouses are in disrepair due to insufficient funding for building care and maintenance. Their plight gained national attention in 1998 when the National Trust for Historic Preservation named Texas courthouses to its list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. "Texas courthouses have been popular symbols of pride and progress for more than 150 years," said Stan Graves, director of the Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program. "Through this program these beloved historical treasures are preserved while their communities benefit both culturally and economically from their restoration." The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program began with an initial appropriation of $50 million in 1999. Since its inception, the program has awarded $207 million to counties throughout Texas and to date over half of Texas' 234 surviving historic county courthouses are participating in this state-run program. Pending additional funding from the Texas Legislature, the THC plans to continue the program with additional rounds of grant opportunities. Prior to the most recent Round V grants totaling nearly $56 million, the program has generated more than 4,692 jobs and almost $130 million in local income. The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Programs work has garnered national and international attention from the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the Association for Preservation Technology International and the Texas Society of Architects. To learn more about the THC's Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program call 512/463-6099, visit www.thc.state.tx.us or email stan.graves@thc.state.tx.us. To learn more about the Preserve America program visit www.preserveamerica.gov. The Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program was established in 1999 by Gov. George W. Bush and the Texas Legislature to restore Texas' county courthouses to their original splendor and make them safe, functional and a source of pride for Texas communities. The Texas Historical Commission created and administers the $207 million program. The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. The agency administers a variety of programs to preserve the archeological, historical and cultural resources of Texas. 5.13.08 FROM Walter P Moore Brenda Aschliman has been elected national president of Construction Writers Association (CWA) for the coming year. Aschliman is director of corporate communications for Walter P Moore, Houston, TX, and has previously served CWA as vice president, 2nd vice president, director and co-chair of the Publicity and Promotion Committee. The Construction Writers Association is a non-profit, non-partisan international organization for journalists, public relations and marketing communications professionals, and photographers serving the information needs of the construction industry. The organization celebrates its 50th anniversary during 2008. A national engineering and consulting firm, WALTER P MOORE creates solutions that help clients turn their ideas into structures and infrastructures that work. WALTER P MOORE is consistently recognized for extraordinary client service, engineering excellence and as a "best place to work." In 2006, the firm celebrated its 75th anniversary. 5.12.08 FROM A&E - The Graphics Complex A&E - The Graphics Complex received the Pinnacle Award at the Houston Better Business Bureau Awards for Excellence luncheon held Wednesday, May 7 at the InterContinental Hotel. This was A&E's eighth time to be recognized by the BBB for service excellence. A&E was also recognized in 1998, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006. The BBB Awards for Excellence recognizes businesses and non-profits for their achievements and commitment to overall excellence and quality in the workplace. Proceeds from the event help fund the four programs of the Better Business Bureau Education Foundation and extend its educational initiatives to outlying communities of the Greater Houston area. When asked what it means to A&E to receive this recognition, Chuck Gremillion, regional president of A&E, states "We are indebted to our employees who year after year strive to provide world class customer service -with a Can-Do attitude! We work hard every day to let our customers know that A&E is committed to their success and it is an honor to be recognized for our efforts." 5.12.08 FROM Turner Partners Architecture, LP Turner Partners Architecture, LP has named Jack Duran Senior Partner and Executive Vice President. Jack has been with the firm 5 years as Director of Projects and has accumulated over 20 years of experience designing and directing a variety of commercial projects up to 250,000 SF and multi-millions of dollars in construction cost. He has assumed total project responsibility on a variety of commercial projects including schools, churches, health care/medical office buildings, transportation facilities and retail centers. Jack graduated from Texas A & M University with a Bachelor degree in Environmental Design and received his Masters in Architecture from Ohio State University. "As a senior partner, the range of my executive responsibility broadens to include the marketing and management of Turner Partners, in addition to the direction of all phases of projects. We are steadily growing, adding more staff and expanding services." Some of Jack's notable projects include: St. Agnes Academy Campus Expansion, BP Westlake Child Development Center, Members Choice Credit Union, First Colony Church of Christ, University of Texas Medical Branch Faculty Lounge, Village School High School, Pope John XXIII High School, and Cinco Ranch Pediatrics. Turner Partners Architecture, LP founded in 1984 provides a full-range of architectural services - planning, designing and managing projects where you worship, learn and work. For more information regarding qualifications or projects portfolio, contact Liz Scroggins at 281-497-1040 or email liz@tpalp.com. 5.12.08 FROM PageSoutherlandPage PageSoutherlandPage is proud to announce that Geri Powell, who received her Bachelor of Architecture from the UH Gerald D. Hines School of Architecture on May 10, received three awards at the ceremony. Not only did she receive a design award for her final project and the leadership award from the student organization Alpha Rho Chi, she also was awarded "Best in Show" of all the graduate design projects. The prize for winning this award is spending two weeks this summer at The Ghost Architectural Laboratory in Nova Scotia, which is run by MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects Ltd. Geri has been interning with PageSoutherlandPage for several months and is now a full-time employee of PSP. 5.9.08 FROM Studio RED Architects Studio RED Architects is pleased to announce the promotion of Jay Mason to Senior Associate and welcomes new employees Erik Pacior, LEED®AP, Joyce Amador and Amy Vo. Jay has worked as an associate at Studio RED since October 2006 and has worked as project manager for Lee College Performing Arts Center and Liberty Plaza. Before joining Studio RED, Jay worked on primarily education projects in the New Jersey area. Jay received his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Technology in Jamaica and his Master of Architecture from New Jersey Institute of Technology. He has worked in architecture for ten years. Erik Pacior, LEED® AP Senior Associate, brings to Studio RED 14 years of experience working in commercial, healthcare and high-end residential design. Associates Joyce Amador and Amy Vo come with backgrounds in interior architecture. Studio RED is very excited to welcome all three to the firm and knows they will add to the unique views and high design standards of the firm. ABOUT STUDIO RED ARCHITECTS: Studio Red Architects was founded in 2004 by four experienced principals-Pete Ed Garrett, AIA, Trung H. Doan, AIA Ed Dumont, IIDA, and Brady Vinje, AIA, whose previous work includes assembly, retail, entertainment and commercial projects such as the Wortham Theater Center, Gucci, Memorial City Mall, Disney Institute and most recently, Lakewood Church. Some of Studio Red's current projects include the Alley Theatre renovation, Second Baptist Church addition and The Shops at Houston Center. 5.4.08 FROM Meeks + Partners Houston-based architectural firm Meeks + Partners is pleased to announce that it won the prestigious Pillars of the Industry Awards for Best Garden Apartment Community from the National Association of Home Builders. The coveted award was given to The Dakota In The Village, planned and designed in Dallas, Texas for Lincoln Property Company. The award was presentedbto Meeks + Partners on April 2 at the NAHB Annual Conference in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The awards are given in recognition of excellence in multifamily design, construction, fi nance, management and marketing. Replacing two apartment communities built by Lincoln Property Co. in the early 1970s, The Dakota is serving as a major catalyst in the redevelopment of the entire Village area, which encompasses 337 acres and where 10,000 residents live in the surrounding apartments. In designing this property, Lincoln Property Co. and Meeks + Partners wanted the design to defi ne and articulate a vision for the entire Village area by embracing urban and natural context elements into the formula. To reflect that, the design team focused on product variety, convenience and state-of-the art amenities, larger apartments with better floorplans, and extraordinary architecture. Designed to celebrate the American Arts and Crafts movement, The Dakota in the Village offers 496 apartments and townhomes on an 18.5-acre graded terrain that achieve 26.8 DU/AC. The site plan was crafted to ensure building alignment, tree preservation and the natural flow of pedestrian and vehicular traffi c. The buildings design invigorates the community with various entries and balconies, combined with pedestrian-only walk-throughs. To reinforce the Craftsman style, each apartment building incorporates porch pillars that broaden at the base to break up the linear space along the building elevations. Brackets under the roof underscore the period look as do bands of windows and other wood details in patio and balcony railings. A columned portico leads residents and guests into the 4,456 square-foot clubhouse. Amenities include a library, a business center and an expansive fitness center with separate spinning area. Outside, a covered veranda offers resort-style pool-side seating, an outdoor kitchen, a gas fi re pit and entertainment areas. A smaller pool is located toward the back of the community. 4.23.08 FROM WALTER P MOORE WALTER P MOORE has announced that Jennifer L. Peek, P.E., PTOE, has been named Managing Director of Houston Traffic Engineering Services. She was recently recognized as a 10-year employee at the 2008 stockholder's meeting and is a principal with the firm. A national engineering and consulting firm, WALTER P MOORE creates solutions that help clients turn their ideas into structures and infrastructures that work. WALTER P MOORE is consistently recognized for extraordinary client service, engineering excellence and as a "best place to work." In 2006, the firm celebrated its 75th anniversary. For further information contact Brenda Aschliman at 713.630.7304, or visit our Web site at www.walterpmoore.com. 4.22.08 FROM CharterSills CharterSills Architectural Lighting Design is please to announce that Principal Warren Charter, LC, IES, Associate AIA, LEEP AP and Senior Lighting Designer Sarah Gandy, IALD, LC, IES, Associate AIA, LEEP AP have both attained the title of LEED Accredited Professional. Earning these credentials makes Charter and Gandy among the first Lighting Consultants in Texas to be LEED Accredited and confirms CharterSills' commitment to sustainable design. "More and more, sustainable design is becoming the standard," says Charter. "It is no longer acceptable to employ outdated designs and technology." "As lighting consultants it is our job to stay informed of the latest technologies and techniques so that our clients can have environments that are at once beautiful, comfortable and sustainable," says Gandy. CharterSills has offices in Houston, Chicago, and Champaign in order to serve the needs on the architectural community around the country. 4.18.08 FROM Hermes Architects, Inc. Hermes Architects, Inc., a Houston-based architectural design, planning, and consulting firm, announces the opening of a new office in the Dallas/Ft Worth Metroplex to better service their clients in the North Texas region. Hermes brings a reputation of leading-edge specialty in retail architecture into North Texas; the same expertise they have demonstrated on a national scale for 40 years--from strip centers to power centers to the latest lifestyle/mixed use centers designed to enhance and revitalize communities. Hermes Architects is also committed to bringing value to their clients' projects through sustainable practices. Architect Suzanne Darnell, who has successfully managed a multitude of high profile retail and mixed use projects for over 8 years out of the Houston office, now serves as the Managing Director for Hermes' D/FW office. "Opening an office in this area allows us to better serve our current and prospective clients in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area with the personal service that they've come to expect from our firm. We are excited about our new presence in this area where we can draw on a deep pool of talented individuals, and also utilize the talent and resources of our 50-person firm in Houston," Says Darnell, "The firm's ownership and management team has high expectations of the move into the DFW market based on the strength of the local economy and quality of projects." "Hermes Architects has impressed me with their commitment to high quality design and always delivers even more than we expect. Looking for ways to add value to our projects and push us beyond our own expectations is part of their mindset and is engrained in their firm culture," said Michael Thum, Vice President, The Woodmont Company, "I know they will do very well in the DFW area". Hermes is currently working with Houston-based The Ainbinder Company to design the Plano/Frisco area 550,000 square-feet lifestyle centerHigh Street at Stonebriarwhich includes retail, commercial, and hospitality offerings. The center is located on a 35-acre site bordering State Highway 121 and Parkwood Boulevard. The firm also recently produced the design for the new IKEA store in Frisco which has opened to huge success. Prior to that, Hermes has designed numerous other retail projects in the DFW area, with additional area projects in the pipeline. Hermes Architects, Inc. is a Houston-based, full-service design firm with offices in both Houston and Dallas / Ft. Worth. The firm, which opened in Houston in 1969, has a diversified portfolio that includes public facilities, corporate, mixed use, retail, institutional, higher educational, religious facilities, hospitality, automotive, industrial, hospitality, interior design, landscaping, master planning, and civil engineering. Hermes Architects is 35% employee-owned under an ESOP stock-sharing plan that includes every member of the firm, allowing the firm to attract and retain some of the best and brightest members of the workforce. Notable completed projects include Reliant Stadium, home of the Houston Texans, and La Centerra, a successful mixed-use project in Katy, Texas. The firm has been recently involved in several projects at the national level - fire training academy in Carlsbad, New Mexico, multiple IKEA stores, and Marine Corps Base Exchanges across the country. For more information contact Suzanne Darnell at 817.733.9920 or at: sdarnell@hermesarchitects.com. 4.16.08 FROM WALTER P MOORE WALTER P MOORE has opened a new office -- its 11th -- in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Leading the expansion is Brion C. Bannister, P.E., CFM, executive director of infrastructure engineering services and a principal with WALTER P MOORE. With his vast project and management experience, Bannister has helped lay the groundwork for many diversified public services in Oklahoma. He plans to expand WALTER P MOOREs services in the state through exceptional local responsiveness to clients. Kenley R. Williams, P.E., PLS, has joined the company as managing director of the new office and a senior associate. Williams spent more than 30 years with Oklahoma Dept. of Transportation prior to his current career in consulting engineering. A national engineering and consulting firm, WALTER P MOORE creates solutions that help clients turn their ideas into structures and infrastructures that work. WALTER P MOORE is consistently recognized for extraordinary client service, engineering excellence and as a "best place to work." In 2006, the firm celebrated its 75th anniversary. For further information contact Brenda Aschliman at 713.630.7304, or visit our Web site at www.walterpmoore.com. 4.14.08 FROM Green Building Services Inc. In response to Texas' growing focus on sustainable development, Green Building Services Inc. (GBS) is expanding its local market presence with a new Houston office. One of the most comprehensive sustainable development consulting firms in the nation, GBS made the move to enhance support for existing clients and spur new relationships. The new office is led by Amanda Tullos, AIA, who joins GBS as a consultant. Firm Principal Alan Scott, AIA, says Tullos was the ideal choice to conduct GBS local initiatives. "Amanda brings both design expertise and deep passion for being a part of the Texas green building movement. With all of the energy expertise in the state, Texas is primed to be a critical force in the move toward a sustainable built environment and we want to be a part of that effort." GBS currently has numerous public and private projects underway in Texas and the Houston office marks the Portland, Ore.-based firm's fourth office in the country. Comprised of creative and technical professionals dedicated to furthering sustainable practices, GBS provides green building, development and facility management consulting. The firm offers design and systems consultation, green specifications and product research, energy analysis, daylight simulation, life-cycle cost analysis, commissioning and operational improvement assessments to building owners and design teams across the United States GBS has particular expertise in orchestrating LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) projects. LEED is the national green building standard administered by the U.S. Green Building Council. Working with clients to achieve their goals, GBS has helped to set new standards of sustainability with premiere projects such as the first LEED Platinum building on the National Register of Historic Places, the first LEED Gold hospital, and two of the first three LEED for Neighborhood Development projects in the nation. Tullos is an award-winning designer who brings an in-depth understanding of design issues combined with knowledge of green building strategies to GBS clients. A registered architect and LEED accredited professional, Tullos spent the last four years working for an architectural firm culminating in Project Architect and green team coordinator roles. Her professional portfolio includes retail, civic and institutional projects. Active in Houston's sustainable community, Tullos was a speaker and workshop chair for the 2006 Gulf Coast Green Symposium on Building. She also served as co-chair for the AIA Houston Committee on the Environment. Currently, she is a board member of Brigid's Place and heads up Brigid's Paradigm, an organization working to form a low-income salvaged materials housing program in Houston. Tullos holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Houston with an emphasis on sustainable design. GBS helps clients successfully adopt green building and facility management practices. With offices in Portland, Sacramento, Orlando and Houston, GBS provides professional consulting services to clients across the United States as well as in Canada and China. To date, the company has managed the certification of 42 LEED projects and has more than 200 other green building projects in process. To learn more about sustainable building development, design, construction and operations, visit www.greenbuildingservices.com or contact 866.743.4277. 4.14.08 FROM Gensler Gensler, a global architectural, design, planning, and consulting firm, announced today that it has opened an office in Austin to service the growing demand for architectural and design services in Central Texas. The Austin office expands Gensler's ability to offer local services to its fast growing base of clients and prospects in the region. This is Gensler's 30th office. Gensler's presence in Austin will be led by office director Todd Runkle, who worked in the company's Washington DC, Detroit, and Houston offices from 1986 to 1999 prior to returning to Gensler last year. He is joined by project manager John Mapes, AIA, who worked in Gensler's San Ramon, California office from 2000 to 2004. "Gensler has been providing planning, architecture, and interior design services to Central Texas clients such as Dimensional Fund Advisors in Austin and Patrinely Group, who is developing a corporate headquarters for Tesoro in San Antonio from both our Houston and Dallas offices for the last 35 years," said James E. Furr, FAIA, regional managing principal. He adds, "The opening of the Austin office epitomizes our client-driven business model and one firm-firm culture, which is based on delivering strong local service with access to the talent and resources of Gensler-worldwide." "Gensler has impressed me with its commitment to sustainable design and the high performance workplace as guiding principles for their architecture and interior practice," said Chad Marsh, principal, Endeavor Real Estate Group. "I welcome the firm to Austin." Currently, Gensler's Austin office is providing design services for an expanded client base including The Domain, Phase 2, which includes over 500,000 square feet of retail and is anchored by Nordstrom; RGM Advisors; Waterstone Development; Baker Botts L.L.P.; and AT&T. Gensler's office is located at 221 W. 6th Street, Suite 1150, Austin, Texas 78701. Gensler is a global design, planning, and strategic consulting firm, with more than 3000 professionals networked across 31 offices on five continents. Consistently ranked by U.S. and international industry surveys as the leading architecture and interior design firm, Gensler leverages its deep resources and diverse expertise to develop design solutions for industries across the globe. Since 1965, Gensler has collaborated with clients to create environments that enhance organizational performance, achieve measurable business goals, enrich people and communities, and enhance everyday experiences. For its longstanding commitment to the advancement of sustainable design, Gensler received the Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2005. 4.14.08 FROM Turner Partners Architecture, LP Turner Partners Architecture, LP announces that Liz Scroggins has joined the firm as Marketing Manager. Scroggins will be responsible for managing branding, marketing and public relations initiatives. Her past experience in the AEC industry includes Membership Director of the Associated General Contractors (AGC Houston), Executive Coordinator for the Roofing Contractors Association (RCAT-Houston) and the Hispanic Contractors Association (HCA-Greater Houston). She graduated in 1997 with a BA in Marketing/Entrepreneurship from the University of Houston. Turner Partners Architecture, LP celebrates almost 25 years in executing a full-range of architectural services -planning, designing and managing projects where you worship, learn and work. The Turner Partners portfolio is a gallery of projects with significance, not only because of their purpose, but also due to the collaborative contributions of the people involved. 4.10.08 FROM Perkins+Will Architecture firm Perkins+Will has named Ron Harris, AIA, NCARB as specification manager for its Houston office. Harris brings 30 years of architectural experience to the firm, with the majority of his work in the institutional and healthcare arena. He has played project management roles and led specification processes for such projects as Memorial Hospital at Gulfport in Mississippi; Thibodaux Regional Medical Center and Ochsner Foundation Hospital in Louisiana; and Riverside Community Hospital, San Jose Regional Medical Center and Los Robles Hospital in California. Texas projects include Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center in Dallas and College Station Medical Center. He is currently leading the specification process for the Texas Childrens Hospital Neurological Research Institute in Houston. A registered architect, Harris received a bachelor of architecture from Louisiana State University. "Ron has the expertise necessary to provide relevant and well developed specifications, laying the foundation for a successful project," says Dave Mueller, director of practice development for the firm's Houston office. "His in-depth knowledge will be a valuable asset to our team and the clients we serve." Established in 1935, Perkins+Will www.perkinswill.com is an integrated design firm serving clients from offices in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Dubai, Hartford, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando, Research Triangle Park, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Shanghai, Vancouver, and Washington, DC. With more LEED® Accredited Professionals than any firm in North America, Perkins+Will is recognized as the preeminent sustainable design firm in the country. The firm practices architecture, interiors, branded environments, planning + strategies and urban design with clients in aviation, corporate + commercial + civic, healthcare, higher education, K-12 education, and science + technology markets. Perkins+Will routinely ranks among the worlds top design firms and has received hundreds of awards, including the prestigious American Institute of Architects' "Firm of the Year Award." 4.10.08 FROM Levinson Alcoser Associates, L.P. Christopher R. Moore, AIA, Director of Interior Architecturehas been promoted to Partner of Levinson Alcoser Associates, L.P. 4.10.08 FROM FKP Architects The Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute - Southwest took top honors recently as the recipient of a 2008 Landmark Award for the Best Medical Project from the Houston Business Journal. The annual award recognizes commercial real estate projects and developments that "improve the look, feel and image" of Houston. Entries are judged by their impact on the Houston area and 41 finalists were selected from more than 70 nominations. Awards were given in 16 categories and selected by a panel of judges composed of representatives from various facets of the Houston area's economic, city and real estate communities. The five-story, 163,000-square-foot facility rests among six existing buildings on the Hermann Memorial Southwest Hospital campus and is the first free-standing hospital designed solely to fight heart and vascular disease. In receiving the award, David Wilkerson, System Director of Architecture and Construction for Memorial Hermann Healthcare System, cited the collaboration of the architects, interior designers and Memorial Hermann staff as a critical factor in the success of the project. "Everyone on the team worked hard to meet the challenging schedule and to minimize the impact of construction on a highly active campus. We are pleased that our work has been recognized with this prestigious award," stated FKP President John Crane. The facility has 42 inpatient beds with the ability to expand to 60 beds. It also houses the citys first complete procedural cath lab suite with a dedicated, uninterrupted power supply for patient safety. The addition of the Heart & Vascular Institute required the system to re-examine the campus' master plan in order to handle the increase in pedestrian and vehicle circulation. The facility features a circulation concourse to link existing buildings within the campus with the Institute. FKP is a 71-year-old, Texas-based, full-service architecture and consulting firm with offices in Houston and Dallas. The firm provides design, planning and consulting services to healthcare institutions, research facilities and higher education campuses. FKP has more than 185 employees and has completed and ongoing projects in 42 states and four foreign countries. 4.10.08 FROM BNIM Architects BNIM ARCHITECTS- FILO CASTORE ASSUMES ROLE OF STUDIO DIRECTOR BNIM Architects congratulates Filo Castore, AIA, LEED® AP, as he becomes the Studio Director of the firm's Houston office. In addition to his responsibilities as an Associate, Castore will now manage the studio's resources including coordinating staff and balancing the workload. "Filo is a charismatic leader with passion for sustainable design and its role in the future of our community, said Kimberly Hickson, AIA, LEED AP, and Principal of the BNIM Houston office. "He is a valuable asset to the firm and will continue to excel." Castore joined BNIM in 2004. He has been involved in several projects in Houston and the Gulf Coast area. He is currently working as a Project Manager for the University of Houston Cemo Lecture Hall and Academic Center, the first LEED project to be built on campus. Recently he donated his expertise as part of a design team for the Make it Right Foundation, which is committed to the redevelopment of the New Orleans' Lower 9th Ward by building sustainable and affordable homes that preserve the spirit of the community. Castore helped organize the first Gulf Coast Green Symposium on Building for Hot and Humid Climates and is the Chair the 2009 event. About BNIM Architects With 38 years of experience as a multidisciplinary architectural firm, Berkebile, Nelson, Immenschuh, McDowell Architects has built a reputation for thoughtful and responsive design thorough technical competence and conscientious service. With offices in Kansas City, Missouri, Houston, Texas, and Des Moines, Iowa, BNIM Architects has completed many significant public and private projects at both local and national levels. The firm's areas of expertise include sustainable design and community redevelopment, urban planning and design, educational facilities, campus master planning, and residential and corporate office spaces. BNIM is committed to restorative design, which aims to maximize human potential, productivity, and health while increasing the vitality of natural systems. For more information, call Julie Miller at 713.343.4150 or visit www.bnim.com 4.10.08 FROM FKP Architects, Inc. FKP Architects, Inc. has announced the promotions of Alan Black, AIA; Anne Jackson Mullins, AIA, NCARB, RAS; and Joseph Maytum, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, to Vice President. Black has more than 16 years in healthcare programming, design and planning. His recent work includes projects for Children's Medical Center in Dallas, Cook Chistus St. Elizabeth Hospital Ambulatory West Tower in Beaumont and Texas Children's Hospital in Houston. Mullins brings more than 20 years of broad experience in project management, facility planning and production management to her new position. Her recent projects include Healthcare Center of Texas in Winnie, Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas and Alcon Laboratories in Fort Worth. Maytum has more than 15 years of expertise in healthcare programming, design and urban planning. His experience includes major projects for clients such as East Jefferson Parish Hospital in East Jefferson, Louisiana, Texas Children Hospital and Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital in Houston. FKP is a 71-year-old, Texas-based, full-service architecture and consulting firm with offices in Houston and Dallas. The firm provides design, planning and consulting services to healthcare institutions, research facilities and higher education campuses. FKP has more than 185 employees and has completed and ongoing projects in 42 states and four foreign countries. 3.31.08 FROM Smith & Company Smith & Company Architects is pleased to welcome Magen Moody as our new Marketing Director. She will be responsible for the marketing strategies for the firm. Ms. Moody previously worked for Perkins+Will. She is a member of SMPS, Urban League-Young Professionals, and SEARCH-Young Ambassadors. She holds a Bachelors degree from Johnson C. Smith University and Masters degree from Texas Southern University. Smith & Company Architects is also pleased to welcome Linda Yarbrough as our newest member of the Smith & Company team. Mrs. Yarbrough is a graduate of The Art Institute of Houston, where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design. Her responsibilities include developing the design and interior pallets. "I am very excited about working with Smith & Company," Yarbrough says. Prior to Smith & Company, Mrs. Yarbrough interned at Office Furniture Innovations, LLC, Houston Texas. Mrs. Yarbrough's experience includes projects with Habitat for Humanities, involvement in the ASID Student Chapter, implementing a painted design of a mural on a downtown building with the National Technical Honor Society, working as a tour guide for ASID Show House, creating and producing art work for Texas Studio Showdown Student Competition, and participating and assisting in winning the First Place design for Texas Studio Showdown Student Competition in 2006. Smith & Company was also recently selected by the Fort Bend ISD and Port Arthur to work on their recent approved bond programming. Currently, Smith & Company is working with the TCB Transit and Metro on their new $17 million maintenance facility proposed light rail universal line. Smith & Company Architects Inc. (S&C) is a service and relationship based Architectural & Interior Design Practice founded in 1999 and dedicated to quality client-service and design excellence. Smith & Company has, since inception, focused on facilities. 3.21.08 FROM Levinson Alcoser Associates, L.P. Levinson Alcoser Associates, L.P., is pleased to announce that Amanda Roome, RLA, has joined the firm and will assume the role of Landscape Architect. Amanda received her Bachelors of Landscape Architecture degree with a minor in Horticulture from Texas A&M University, in May of 2004. She has designed numerous Houston commercial landscapes, and has experience in several other aspects of landscape architecture, including hike and bike trails, community parks, jogging trails, and site plan development. She has a background in the residential design build industry, civil engineering and irrigation design. Her ability to design eye-appealing landscapes that meet local government requirements, while complementing building architecture and meeting clients needs for their development, make her a great asset to our firm. Amanda is a Registered Landscape Architect, a licensed irrigator in Texas, and a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects. 3.19.08 FROM Brookstone, L. P. Brookstone, L. P. is proud to announce and welcome Max Montegut as Vice President. Mr. Montegut brings with him over thirty years of experience in all aspects of the construction industry including estimating, operations, business development and marketing. He has experience in various industry sectors such as commercial, healthcare, retail, hospitality and industrial on projects ranging from 5M to over 200M. Mr. Montegut has a Building Construction degree from Texas A&M University and an MBA in Finance and Strategic Management from Rice University. Previously, he was the owner of MAXXAM Consulting Group, Inc. which provided construction and development management services along with project delivery, audit scheduling and litigation consulting to developers, owners, contractors and subcontractors. He will focus primarily on business development, strategic planning and quality assurance/quality compliance for Brookstone. Steve Dishman, President of Brookstone, commented, "Max is an experienced professional and well known throughout the regional construction marketplace. He will compliment our already strong team; we look forward to the additional talent and professionalism he brings to our team." Brookstone, L.P. is a Houston-based company that provides general contracting, construction management and design build services throughout the Texas region. For over 45 years, Brookstone has constructed commercial, educational, healthcare, industrial, religious, community and aviation facilities for a variety of public and private sector clients. 3.05.08 FROM Morris Architects Morris Architects (www.morrisarchitects.com), a 70-year design firm with offices in Houston, Orlando, Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro, recently elevated Doug Childers, AIA, to the position of principal directing the firm's Urban Studio. A community leader and outspoken advocate of sustainable development in Houston, Doug directs Morris' urban projects-specifically, mixed-use and transit-oriented development - and promotes the firm's innovation in these areas on a national scale. "I'm pleased to announce Doug's promotion to principal," said Chris Hudson, president and CEO of Morris Architects. "His advancement to this key leadership role is in recognition and support of the great things he has done and will continue to do for Morris Architects and Houston itself. Doug's grassroots leadership with regard to sustainable development-ideals important to the firmmake him a natural leader into the future of urban and transit-oriented development." Morris' urban-focused design team emerged from the firms 70-year legacy shaping much of Houstons urban context: Pennzoil Place; One Shell and Two Shell Plaza; First City Tower; One Allen Center; Transco (now Williams) Tower; Wortham Center; Hobby Center for the Performing Arts; Toyota Center; and Bank of America Center, to name a few. This, combined with Doug's thorough knowledge of real estate strategies and sustainable principles, and the firms experience designing destinations around the world, have enabled Doug to secure some of Houstons most progressive urban projects including Regent Square, a walkable mixed-used urban village located on a 24-acre site off of Allen Parkway. His passion for innovating new development models to address Houston's changing urban context has made him a noted authority and recognized leader in the field. Doug recently was honored with the Museum District Business Alliance 2007 Community Improvement Award for his contributions as Chair of the Richmondrail.org steering committee. "Soon all of the major inner loop activity centers, institutions and destinations throughout the city will be connected by a modern light rail network. As such, we, like Houston's city planners, politicians, community leaders and everyday citizens, are interested in looking for ways to influence and lead positive development," said Doug Childers, AIA, principal, Morris Architects. Doug's portfolio also includes major commissions for companies such as American General Insurance Group, Barneys New York, Credit Suisse / First Boston, Marriott, Schlumberger, Smith Barney and University Corners L.L.C. In addition to Doug Childers, Morris Architects recently promoted Todd McCurdy, ASLA to principal for the firm's Landscape Architecture and Planning services nationally and abroad. 3.05.08 FROM Seeberger + Associates L.P. Seeberger + Associates L.P. is pleased to welcome Medardo Diaz as our newest member of the S+A team. Mr. Diaz joins us as a project architect from the University of Houston, where he received his Bachelor of Architecture degree. For 25 years Seeberger + Associates L.P. has offered the highest level of project coordination with a willingness to focus on the clients' needs from start to finish. With experience in over 20 different states, we value a job well done and a satisfied customer. Seeberger + Associates, providing design solutions and more for 25 years. 3.05.08 FROM Gensler The Houston office of Gensler announces the promotion of three new Senior Associates. The appointments are Julie Markham, IIDA, RID, LEED® AP; Kelly Matula, ASID, LEED® AP; and Kitten Muckleroy, IIDA, ASID, LEED® AP to Senior Associate. Julie Markham, IIDA, RID, LEED® AP Senior Associate Markham joined Gensler in 1999 and is a registered Interior Designer. Her responsibilities include developing the design and interior palettes for corporate spaces. Markham has particular expertise in developing sustainable interiors and was the first Gensler LEED-CI-accredited professional. Her projects range from small local businesses to international corporations. Markham earned a bachelor of interior design degree from Texas Tech University and serves as the VP of Membership for IIDA's TX/OK Chapter. Kelly Matula, ASID, LEED® AP Senior Associate Matula is an interior designer and is a LEED Accredited Professional. She has 10 years experience in corporate interior design and specializes in the Energy and professional services sectors. She supervises projects from programming through contract administration. As both manager and designer, she is responsible for maintaining client relationships and managing the design process. A graduate of the University of Texas, she helps secure funds for UT art exhibits that help expose students to architecture. Matula is also a part of Gensler firmwide design, learning, and mentorship committees. Kitten Muckleroy, IIDA, ASID, LEED® AP Senior Associate Muckleroy is an interior designer specializing in corporate interiors. Her responsibilities range from schematic design to construction documentation and construction administration. She is accountable for the preparation of programming, space planning, finish selections, interior treatments and furniture concepts. She also works with other the design teams to prepare the appropriate design deliverables for a project. Muckleroy earned her master of fine arts degree in interior design from the University of Houston. She is a University of Houston Band Alumni board member. Gensler is a global design, planning, and strategic consulting firm, with more than 3000 professionals networked across 30 offices on five continents. Consistently ranked by U.S. and international industry surveys as the leading architecture and interior design firm, Gensler leverages its deep resources and diverse expertise to develop design solutions for industries across the globe. Since 1965, Gensler has collaborated with clients to create environments that enhance organizational performance, achieve measurable business goals, enrich people and communities, and enhance everyday experiences. For its longstanding commitment to the advancement of sustainable design, Gensler received the Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council in 2005. 3.04.08 FROM HDR Architecture Steve Cano, AIA, has joined HDR Architecture as a Senior Project Architect in the Houston office. Mr. Cano will be responsible for leading the technical delivery of major healthcare projects in the Houston and Texas region; and will provide overall technical leadership and quality control guidance for the office. Steve joins HDR with over 20 years experience in the technical delivery of healthcare facilities throughout the United States while a member of another Houston healthcare design firm. In this span of work his experience has included complex renovations of hospitals throughout the country as well as major new facilities for some of Houston's leading medical institutions. "Steve brings to HDR his strong qualifications in technical leadership and project delivery, with a special emphasis on client relationships and the coordination of all project disciplines." says Maurice Robison, AIA, ACHA, Vice President and Managing Principal of HDR Architecture Houston. "He will coordinate HDR Houston with our national, firm-wide initiatives in BIM and establishing Revit as the platform of choice throughout our 160 offices." HDR has been part of the Texas business landscape since opening a Dallas office in 1960, and in Houston in 1996. Today, HDR professionals in Austin, Bayview, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio offer a full range of services to public and private sector clients. HDR is an employee-owned architectural, engineering, and consulting firm with more than 6,800 professionals in 160 locations worldwide. All of them are committed to helping clients manage complex projects and make sound decisions. Learn more at www.hdrinc.com.