🏛️ Garfield’s Mansion or an Architectural Scavenger Hunt? (Hard Choice Inside)


Let’s be honest: in the past, architectural tours at the AIBD Annual Conference were sometimes squeezed into the agenda like an afterthought.

Not this year.

We know how much you value getting outside of your own head, seeing how other master designers work, and soaking in fresh inspiration. In fact, one attendee recently told us:

"I'm a brilliant, world-class designer - just kidding, sort of - but people get stagnant if they don't get outside of themselves and see the work of others, understand the process of others, and so on...The architectural tours are always very inspiring."

Because of that, we’ve extended the conference by a full day and dedicated all of Saturday morning (August 1) to an architecture lover's dream.

For the first time ever, we are offering two distinct, high-level paths. The only problem? You have to choose one:

🏛️ OPTION #1: The Garfield Estate Experience

Take a privately guided insider tour through the beautifully restored, Victorian-era home of President and Mrs. James A. Garfield. While waiting for your group’s slot, you'll explore the historic grounds via an interactive mobile walking tour.

  • Logistics: Seamless round-trip transportation from the host hotel is included.

đź§­ OPTION #2: The Cleveland Legacy Scavenger Hunt

If you prefer high-energy exploration, this is for you. You’ll race through Cleveland’s architectural history in a clever scavenger hunt, tracing the city's evolution from Civil War–era structures in the Warehouse District to the breathtaking Beaux-Arts grandeur of The Malls.

  • Logistics: This is an urban exploration path; you'll navigate your way through these historic spaces.

THE CONVERGENCE: The Historic West Side Market

No matter which path you choose, both groups will converge at the legendary West Side Market, currently undergoing a massive $70 million restoration.

From there, you can grab lunch on your own at one of the market's famous vendors or explore the vibrant surrounding neighborhood with fellow designers.

  • If you choose Option #1, your bus will take you directly from the Garfield House to the market.
  • If you chose Option #2, it's up to you to meet the rest of the group at the market.
  • Heading back? A return shuttle to the hotel departs the market at 1:45 PM for anyone who wants to head back early. Otherwise, feel free to stay, explore, and make your own way back later!

​Visit the Conference Website: AIBD.org/AnnualConference​

⚠️ A Quick Note on Registration

Both tours are priced exactly the same, which makes choosing even harder!

Because this is our first time running a multi-track tour morning, our registration system let a few eager designers accidentally sign up for both. If that was you, don't worry! Just reply to this email or call us at 800.366.2423, and we’ll get your extra registration refunded right away.

Whichever you choose, you'll be back with plenty of time to get gussied up for the evening's reception and Grand Awards Dinner.

See you in Cleveland!

P.S. - Hotel rooms are filling up fast. If you haven’t booked your stay yet, call the hotel directly at (216) 239-1200 to secure our group rate. If you run into any issues, our team is standing by at (800) 366-2423 (Ext. 3). More information is provided on the conference website.

Our Sponsors & Exhibitors:

Our Exhibitors:

​CLICK HERE to find out more about sponsoring and exhibiting.

​

American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) is a professional association that promotes the highest standards of excellence in residential building design. AIBD offers a variety of resources to its members, including continuing education, networking opportunities, and marketing assistance. AIBD is a valuable resource for anyone interested in a career in residential building design. If you want to improve your skills, network with other professionals, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends, AIBD is the perfect organization for you.

Read more from American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)

Good news if you’ve been waiting to book your stay for the AIBD Annual Design & Build Conference at The Metropolitan at The 9 in downtown Cleveland. Our host hotel has released additional inventory into our group block, which means there are once again rooms available for AIBD attendees at our special conference rate. Availability is still limited, and rooms are being booked daily, but as of now you can secure your stay directly through our link. If you need dates before or after the official...

Hello Reader, Congrats on surviving Monday and crushing Tuesday. Now, Wednesday beckons you to take a break and step into a pattern of discovery. Welcome to the Midweek Meander. Did someone forward this to you? Please consider subscribing. Today is June 24, a date connected to the summer solstice and festivals in Europe. It is known as Saint John’s Day/Midsummer Day in the United Kingdom, Festa di San Giovanni Battista in Italy, Sânziene in Romania, Juhannus in Finland, and also my birthday....

If you design homes for a living, you know how quickly the industry is changing—codes, products, client expectations, and technology never stand still. AIBD is here to help you stay ahead of it all. When you join as an AIBD Professional Member, you get complimentary access to most of our online courses. That means you can sharpen your design, business, and building‑science skills without adding more to your training budget. Our on‑demand catalog is built specifically for residential design...