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.
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Stop Designing for "Average"—Design for Everyone [Monday Minute]
Published 2 months ago • 4 min read
April 27, 2026, Edition
#CreatingWherePeopleLive
This weekly newsletter
is created by and for those designing homes in North America.
Its editorial staff is the American Institute of Building Design, Inc., the premier association of residential design professionals.
Here's what you get:
Field Notes
Nuts & Bolts
Highlights
Workshops & Gatherings
What We're Up To
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Let's dive in.
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Field Notes
AIBD Connect DC was a fantastic day!
We had a great turnout for our AIBD Connect event this past Saturday. Highlights included a private tour of the National Building Museum and an immersive walk through the House & Home exhibit. There’s nothing like seeing architectural history up close with a group of fellow designers who "get it."
Hosted By: AIBD, Eastern Shore Chapter
Have an idea for a local connection? We’d love to hear from you.
The world’s most famous residence is currently undergoing a massive $7 million overhaul to combat decades of structural fatigue and persistent leaks. This restoration is a stark reminder that "organic architecture" requires more than just a vision—it requires a rigorous maintenance plan and a deep respect for the elements.
Builder Sentiment Posts Notable Decline on Economic Uncertainty
Amid recent rate increases, the homebuilder sentiment index plunged 34 points month over month, marking its largest decline in 11 months and reaching its lowest level in seven months. The index has not been in expansion territory (a reading of 50 or higher) since April 2024. Sentiment deteriorated across all regions, with sales expectations for the next six months cratering from 49 to 42. Furthermore, buyer traffic fell from an already low 25 to a deeply depressed 22.
A blind architecture student is walking into her dream
Nola Timmins has optic nerve atrophy, which greatly limits her vision. She’s had the condition all her life, and it cannot be corrected. Yet, the University of Virginia student is about to walk the Lawn for graduation with her guide dog, Brizzy. As residential designers, we often talk about Universal Design, but Nola is living it.
Stop Designing for the "Average" (and Start Designing for Everyone)
This Practical Guide to Universal Home Design moves beyond basic ADA compliance to show how simple, common-sense features—like beveled thresholds and "power sinks"—create homes that are safer for toddlers, easier for seniors, and more stylish for everyone in between.
Murus high-performance building enclosures simplify designing sustainable, energy-efficient, and net-zero residential and light commercial buildings. For more information, call 570-549-2100 or visit www.murus.com.
Workshops & Gatherings
AIBD Chapters, Boards, and Councils
Click the links to view the topics and add to your calendar.
This Week! April 30 -Northeast Ohio Chapter (Virtual) - 12:00 pm ET - General Membership Meeting
April 28 - CE Watch Party - 2:00 p.m. ET (30 min) - Structural Engineer vs Architect - Design Meeting (0.5 P3 CE)
May 8 - Coffee with Bernie - 10:00 a.m. ET - Designing for Lifestyle Trends: Home offices, multigenerational living, and wellness-focused spaces. (1.0 P3 CE)
Traditional Building Conference - June 16-17, 2026 - Cape May, NJ - Registration now openn
What We're Up to
Shape the Future: 2026/2027 Leadership Nominations
Nominations close April 30th
The AIBD Board of Directors is currently preparing the ballot for the upcoming fiscal year, with a particular focus on the Secretary and three Director-at-Large positions. However, the floor is open. We welcome nominations for all Board roles. Whether you’re eyeing a specific vacancy or wish to challenge for a different leadership post, your voice is vital. If more than one qualified candidate emerges for a position, a general election will determine our next chapter.
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.
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