Blueprint for Better

As part of the repositioning effort in 2012-2014, a member survey revealed that a vast majority of members wanted the AIA to lead a public awareness campaign to educate and inform the public about the role of architects and architecture.

The AIA conducted extensive research about the general public’s perception of architects and architecture. Results showed that members of the public thought very highly of architects but did not quite understand what the profession entailed. As a result of this survey and research, the public awareness campaign was launched in 2014 with three goals: 1) change behaviors and perceptions, 2) increase support for architecture, and 3) create a deeper understanding of architecture and appreciation for the value of architects.

Launched in 2020, Blueprint for Better brings to life the role of architects as leaders in the fight against climate change. Buildings are responsible for 40% of carbon emissions. The harm that results affects us all but doesn’t impact us all equally. As building designers, architects are key to addressing and mitigating the damage.

This campaign is a call to action. AIA, the largest design organization in the world, is asking architects, design professionals, civic leaders, and the public in every community to join our efforts and transform the day-to-day practice of architecture to achieve a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment.

It’s time to show the world what design can do.

Join the campaign:

• Join the movement. Visit BlueprintforBetter.org to learn more and sign up.
• Engage with your civic leaders. This toolkit will teach you to position yourself as a trusted advisor, and as a result, demonstrate the value architects bring to their community.
• Read The Architect’s Voice, AIA’s Message Book, which helps explain the work of architects to the public. Or, take the training course on AIAU.
• Component executives can access all campaign resources and toolkits on Brandfolder.

AIA Film Challenge

Design has the power to solve some of the biggest issues facing cities today. We believe these stories are among the most important stories we can tell. The AIA Film Challenge is a film contest that amplifies these stories—architecture projects that are transforming communities through the power of design and collaboration.

The AIA Film Challenge 2022 is now open. Learn more >