This is the first in a series of events related to the presidential theme of Tomas Rossant, AIA,"Dialogues from the Edge of Practice." The theme intends to explore how architects are boldly enlarging the purview of the practitioner to bring their particular critical problem solving skills and design acumen to endeavors previously considered outside the traditional scope of practice. There has never been a time when the role of the architect has been more relevant as an instrument to shape culture, society, and positive environmental outcomes. “Dialogues” will engage the practitioners amongst us who are breaking rules, trying new things, and taking new risks—expanding the impact of the architect—and disseminate their experiences to our professional community.

"Edge Construction: The Future of Modular" will focus on how architects have pushed the boundaries of the profession and expanded into the design of alternative construction means and methods. Modular, or off-site, construction has become broadly accepted but not yet employed at a large scale. What is the future of this construction method? And, considering the Mayor’s affordable housing plan, should modular construction techniques be employed to deliver more affordable housing to the City?

Join Stephen Kieran,FAIA, founding Partner of KieranTimberlake Architects—an exemplar of an “Edge Practice”—as he shares his recent work and outlook on the future of modular construction, and Jeffrey Brown as he presents his experience delivering The Stack project using off-site construction. Dialogue to follow.

This event was preceded by a think tank roundtable discussion with thought leaders deeply involved with modular construction.

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