Lecture: the Enduring Legacy of Architect A. Hays Town

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At a pivotal moment in history, as modernist architecture and urban planning were reshaping American cities, the legendary architect A. Hays Town revitalized traditional architecture drawing from local historic precedents and rooted in sustainable building practices, creating culturally responsive and enduring spaces in Louisiana. This lecture, led by local Louisiana architect Kevin Harris, will explore how Town's upbringing, education, and early practice shaped his architecture and how his thoughtful use of recycled, natural materials ignited a movement for sustainability in the Southern U.S., offering case studies for creating long-lasting, resilient communities.

This one-hour lecture covers the life and influences of A. Hays Town, with a focus on his innovative approach to sustainability in residential architecture. Town's use of recycled and natural building materials and his deliberate avoidance of materials such as vinyl and asbestos, contributed to healthier and more durable living environments in Louisiana. His emphasis on local and resilient materials continues to inspire architects across the region.

Baton Rouge Architect Kevin L. Harris, FAIA, literally wrote the book on residential design. His book, The Forever Home: How to work with an architect to design thehome of your dreams debuted in June 2015 and immediately became a best seller and top rated new release in its categories. Harris is a frequent lecturer at industry associations including the American Institute of Architects, Florida Building Materials Association, and Southern Forest Products Association conventions. He chaired theAlA's Small Project Practitioners Knowledge Community, served on the Small Firm Task Force and is a member of its Custom Residential Architect Network. He is thefounding member and chairman of the local Baton Rouge Custom Residential Architects Network. Kevin Harris is a graduate of the LSU School of Architecture and Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. He holds an NCARB certificate and is licensed in all 5 states bordering the Gulf of Mexico. He taught at Louisiana State University School of Architecture for 10 years and continues to mentor architecture students.

Please note that this program is free to both ICAA members and the General Public.

What You Will Learn:

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

1) Promote occupant health and reduce exposure to harmful materials by sourcing and specifying natural finish and structural materials, such as brick, timber, plaster, and clay tile, and understanding the health risks of materials such as vinyl and PVC.

2) Lower the carbon footprint and embodied energy of building projects yb utilizing recycled building materials and designing for longevity through adaptive reuse and durability-focused strategies.

3) Enhance living environments at both home and community scales by using architectural forms and materials that foster a connection to shared culture, history, and environment.

4) Ensure quality, structural integrity, and the safe performance of building envelopes and MEP systems by adopting an active approach ot construction administration, working collaboratively with contractors, subcontractors, and craftspeople to create enduring and resilient structures.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Old Governor's Mansion, 502 North Boulevard, Baton Rouge, United States