The AIA Wyoming Fall Conference 2024 was a vibrant celebration of the theme “Bricolage,” exploring the creative art of problem-solving and resourcefulness in architecture. Held against the stunning backdrop of Wyoming’s natural beauty, the conference brought together architects, designers and enthusiasts for an enriching experience focused on innovative design approaches and the clever reuse of materials and structures. Event Overview The conference commenced with a captivating Snow King Observatory Tour Welcoming Event, providing attendees an exclusive opportunity to connect while enjoying breathtaking views and insights into the integration of architecture with the landscape. This informal gathering set a collaborative tone for the inspiring days ahead. Dynamic Lectures and Discussions Keynote speakers illuminated the principles of bricolage through their diverse experiences in the field. Sabrina Naumovski from KieranTimberlake kicked off the lecture series, sharing insights on how human-centric research processes shape modern architectural practices. Her talk challenged conventional design notions, encouraging participants to rethink the transformation of existing materials and spaces into something extraordinary. Following Naumovski, Tom Hulbert and Spencer Sommers from CO-OP Architecture highlighted the importance of community engagement in the bricolage process. Their discussion showcased alternative funding initiatives and light-touch interventions, demonstrating how architects can replace developers to produce innovative solutions for revitalization. Nate Kipnis of Kipnis Architecture & Planning explored the concept of information-based design, illustrating how architects can create better-performing buildings. His focus on passive and active strategies inspired attendees to consider how their designs could respond to changing needs and environmental conditions, embodying the spirit of resourcefulness. Aaron Betsky, a prominent figure in contemporary architecture and design, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the intersection of art and architecture. He discussed how the principles of bricolage can influence artistic expression within architectural practices, encouraging attendees to embrace experimentation and hybridization in their work. Finally, Margaret Cavenagh from Studio Gang addressed the role of architecture in fostering resilience within communities. Her insights emphasized the importance of designing with an eye toward the future, incorporating sustainable practices that promote longevity and adaptability in built environments. Beyond the Conference In addition to the lectures, the conference featured engaging tours on Saturday morning. Participants explored the town of Jackson on bikes to see the breadth of new commercial projects across the town, finishing their route at the new County Recreational Facility with a tour from Wember and Perkins & Will. These interactive sessions fostered a shared dialogue, allowing attendees to apply the concepts discussed in the lectures to real-world challenges. F a l l 24 B r i c o l a g e Bricolage is a basic form of recycling that involves the opportunistic adoption and reuse of existing materials and the secondary use of existing structures for other purposes. AIA Wyoming’s 2024 fall conference will celebrate the art of creative problem-solving and resourcefulness in architecture. It will focus on engaging through dynamic discussions, workshops, and handson activities exploring the fusion of diverse materials, techniques, and styles. From repurposed materials to innovative design approaches, the conference showcases Wyoming’s architectural ingenuity, commitment to upcycling, and adaptability in material acquisition. Keynote by Margaret Cavenagh, AIA & Design Principal at Studio Gang Fall Conference 2024 September 26-28 AIA Wyoming Annual Fall Conference Celebrating Bricolage in Architecture BY CARL KOHUT, AIA 26 WYOMING ARCHITECTURE .24 | www.aia-wyoming.org
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