Diversity, Sustainability, and Integrated Project Delivery: the Triple Bottom Line

Jessyca Henderson, AIA, The American Institute of Architects, Washington DC

George Miller, FAIA, Pei Cobb Freed and Partners, New York City; Chair, AIA Board Strategic Initiatives Committee; AIA National President-elect

James Suehiro, AIA, LEED AP, Seattle, WA

In practical terms, triple bottom line thinking means expanding traditional decision-making frameworks to take into account environmental and social considerations, in addition to economic considerations. The concept of the triple bottom line has proven to be an excellent lens through which to explore the three strategic initiatives of the AIA. Trends in diversity, sustainable design, integrated practice and integrated project delivery, design and building technologies, and construction delivery models are converging toward a common path. Focused on the necessary goal of ecologically responsible design and fully integrated project teams, we explore the ideas behind the AIA’s Strategic Initiatives and other related topics, including: the forces driving change; connections among diversity, IPD, and sustainability; outcomes for the profession; activities of the AIA; and the resulting opportunities and benefits for architects that accrue through triple bottom-line thinking.

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