Name: Armenian Influences on Architecture in Glendale with Aram Alajajian
Start: 2025-04-17T19:00:00-07:00
End: 2025-04-17T20:00:00-07:00
Location: Glendale Central Library 222 East Harvard St, Glendale, CA, United States, California 91205

Armenian Influences on Architecture in Glendale with Aram Alajajian

Join us in celebrating Armenian influence on Glendale architecture with Armenian American Museum architect, Aram Alajajian.
Reflecting on his architectural journey, Alajajian will share stories about growing up in Yerevan, Armenia and highlighting his deep connection to Armenian cultural landmarks and how that influenced his work on prominent architecture such as the St. Gregory Armenian Catholic Church in Glendale, the Armenian Orthodox Western Prelacy Building in La Crescenta and the highly anticipated Armenian American Museum and Cultural Center of California.

BIOGRAPHY
Born on July 31, 1954, in Yerevan, Armenia, Alajajian pursued his passion for architecture at the Yerevan Polytechnic Institute, graduating in 1977 with a degree in Architecture. Following his graduation, Alajajian began his professional journey at the Yerevan Project Institute, working under Chief Architect Jim Torosian. This experience laid the foundation for his architectural career. In 1979, Alajajian relocated to the United States to further his career. He joined the Ralph M. Parsons Company in Pasadena, California, in May 1980, contributing to projects such as the design of dormitories for the Alaskan Pipeline and housing developments in Abu Dhabi.

In 1986, Alajajian co-founded Alajajian Marcoosi Architects Inc. (AMA Inc.) in Glendale, California, alongside Sako Marcoosi. Serving as President, Alajajian has led the firm in various architectural endeavors, including the design of the Armenian American Museum. Alajajian’s design for the Armenian American Museum was selected in December 2015. The museum aims to serve as a cultural and educational center, celebrating and preserving Armenian heritage.

This program is in conjunction with Be the Change Series. Be The Change events will build collective understanding of systemic racism, elevate the voices and stories of Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), and inspire our community to be the change.