Design Charrette: The Recap
The latest AIA San Mateo Chapter meeting, led by 2025 Chapter President Kenny Hung, brought members together for an engaging evening of recognition, inspiration, and community-focused discussion. Hung opened the event with a warm welcome and an overview of the night’s agenda, which included the presentation of scholarships and a special program highlighting the design work of past chapter presidents.
As part of his remarks, Hung extended appreciation to the chapter’s sponsors for their ongoing support and shared a preview of upcoming events.
These include a showcase on self-driving vehicles, a virtual presentation on building design innovations, and a guided tour of the TDS Architecture Building.
Each event offers valuable opportunities for learning and connection among members.
Supporting Future Architects
A key highlight of the evening was the chapter’s scholarship program. Funded through the annual summer social, the AIA National Matching Grant Program, and contributions from members.
The program provides financial support for students pursuing careers in architecture—both at accredited universities and community colleges.
The scholarship committee carefully reviewed applications using a selection matrix to ensure fairness and transparency.
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This year’s recipients were introduced with well-deserved recognition.
Felipe Colina, a Master of Architecture student at California College of the Arts, will graduate in Spring 2027 and expressed heartfelt thanks for the chapter’s support.
Danny Tahiraj, who recently completed his studies at Woodbury University in Southern California, shared his passion for library design and reflected on his academic journey.
In the community college category, Noelle Diep and Cedric de la Beaujardiere were honored. Noelle, who brings a strong academic background from UC Berkeley, is set to graduate in 2026 with a BA in Architecture. Cedric, transitioning from a career in software engineering, is currently studying at the College of San Mateo and represents a growing trend of interdisciplinary professionals entering the field.
Scholarship committee member Noemi Avram gave special thanks to Tyler Moslander for his leadership in the program and encouraged members to help promote and attend the chapter’s summer social, which is crucial to sustaining future scholarships.
The Power of Design Charrettes
The second half of the meeting focused on design charrettes—intensive, collaborative events where architects and community members come together to solve real-world design challenges.
John Stewart (2010 Chapter President) enthusiastically described charrettes as “the most fun you can have in AIA,” capturing the energy and creativity they inspire. AIA San Mateo County, he noted, began hosting charrettes in 1982 and has maintained a legacy of civic leadership ever since. Kevin Norman (2009 Chapter President) followed with an overview of the concept’s origins and format, typically a 12-hour design sprint where teams work together to develop innovative solutions for community issues.
Dianne Whitaker (2004 Chapter President) shared insights into how charrettes are prepared and executed, as well as participant feedback. One memorable quote from Michael Yantos, a participant on Team B, captured the spirit of the experience:
“There was something special about working literally arm-through-arm with fellow professionals and students. I haven’t had so much fun in architecture since I left school. And I don’t think I’ve ever been so proud of our profession.”
Ellis Schoichet (2007 Chapter President) walked attendees through the logistics of a typical charrette day—from early-morning coffee and team assignments to site tours, conceptual work, and design pin-ups. He emphasized how technology has become an increasingly important tool in the process and noted that city officials, planning commissioners, and other civic leaders are often invited to participate, adding depth and perspective to the projects.
Noemi Avram (2005 Chapter President) returned to speak about the long-term impact these charrettes can have on communities. She highlighted a Facebook-sponsored charrette that brought in $18,000 in support and noted that many design concepts born out of these sessions have gone on to influence real developments across the peninsula.
“Time and again, the AIASMC Design Charrette process has helped open doors to new ideas that might not have been seen or thought of before… Concepts born of this charrette have shaped real buildings and spaces.”
Looking Forward
As the meeting came to a close, members reflected on the positive outcomes of past charrette projects and explored new ideas—such as hosting a future charrette near transit or park stations to encourage inclusive participation. The evening ended with a call for greater member involvement and an open forum for questions and ideas.