Photo: Courtesy Chris Schultz, AIA

The 2007 National Convention and Design Exposition of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) opens next week in San Antonio. In this six-minute podcast, AIA San Antonio chapter president Chris Schultz, AIA, chats with McGraw-Hill Construction’s news director, Heather Hatfield, about how his organization is gearing up for the event.

Local AIA chapters are responsible for organizing galas as well as tours of their cities. In this case, AIA San Antonio is offering more than 100 tours that highlight everything from the Alamo and other historic Spanish missions, to the dance halls of Texas. It’s even shedding some light on historic ice houses.

Although next week’s events dominate its focus now, AIA San Antonio is also thinking about the future. To this end, as part of its recognition of the AIA’s 150th anniversary the chapter is creating a local center for architecture. Expected to open to the public next year, it will provide exhibit space where the community can learn about architecture.

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