I would like to wish you my best wishes for 2016.

AIA Continental Europe celebrated its 20th anniversary in the fall of 2014, marking two decades of growth and development, as well as representing  one of the first “global” chapters within the American Institute of Architects. Our anniversary, and the onset of a new year, initiated another phase in our development, generating new goals.

Led by President Bertrand Coldefy, we commenced two  new pivotal programs in our Chapter. We inaugurated  an Honors and Awards Program. As a means of honoring professional and design excellence, we wish to continue this program in the future.  Another key step was the initiation of a Student Fellowship Program. By enabling a student to participate in the Summer Architectural Program at Fontainebleau near Paris, we created a critical link between two continents.

In the upcoming year we have developed our goals and site lines for the further development of these initiations. We wish to continue to develop our community, while, at the same time reaching out to the greater community of AIA Chapters. In an ever-more global market, such a dialogue enriches all Chapters.

We have two exciting conferences programmed for 2016. Our first, scheduled from 14-17 April will take place in Barcelona, Spain.  Giving an insight into the burst of contemporary architecture of recent decades as well as the wealth of historic buildings, the program promises to be inspiring. In the fall, our Chapter will have the unique opportunity to convene in Girne, Cyprus.  Here we will gain an insight into Cypriot culture and some of the foundations of varied historic civilizations. 

I would like to encourage all members to continue to support our Chapter and to reach out to new members. Our future is based on our expansion into new areas as well continued support.

I am honored to help our Chapter’s development and look forward to hearing your comments, and suggestions.

Best wishes,


Nora Demeter, Int'l Assoc. AIA
2016 AIA Europe President