AIA Kansas City

The April Pillars session focused on sustainability and the multi-scale strategies shaping healthier, more resilient communities across the Kansas City region. The day began at KCDC with a discussion on Roy Blunt Luminary Park, where Kevin Wallace of HNTB shared how thoughtfully designed civic open spaces can strengthen urban connectivity, enhance environmental performance, and support community well-being.

The conversation then expanded to the regional scale with a presentation on Greenline KC led by Steve McDowell (BNIM) and Lauren Harness (Kansas City Design Center). The group explored how trail systems, green infrastructure, and mobility initiatives can connect neighborhoods across the metro. The pillars also had the opportunity to see some KCDC student presentations on how they envision the green line evolving over time.

Following this exploration of regional initiatives, the Pillars traveled to Overland Park for a tour and conversation at the Farmers Market. There, Bryan Toben and Mike Burton discussed the impact of public programming, urban agriculture, and walkable downtown planning on sustainability through the use of heavy timber construction. To round out the day, the session concluded at BRR Architecture. Emily Randel of Climate Action KC led a discussion about the importance of collaboration among architects, community partners, and regional organizations to advance sustainable design in Kansas City.

Overall, the session gave Pillars a comprehensive understanding of how design decisions at every scale can shape stronger, safer, and more connected communities.

The February Pillars session focused on Kansas City’s sports culture and the role it plays in shaping the city’s identity, economy, and communities. The day kicked off with a presentation from Lori Kirchhoff, Director of Project Management for KC2026, who walked the group through how Kansas City is preparing to host the FIFA World Cup 2026 this June. With more than 650,000 visitors expected during the tournament, the conversation highlighted planning efforts, transportation strategies, and the widespread impact a global event of this scale will bring to the region.

Next, the Pillars explored the transformation of GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium beginning with a presentation by Brooke Craig (Populous) and Randy Braun (Walter P. Moore), who were instrumental in the redesign of Arrowhead to meet FIFA standards. The group was then led on a tour through the stadium, getting an up-close look at what it takes to host an event on a world stage.

The session wrapped up at the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy, where the group learned from Dash Johnson, Preston Ellsworth, and Kalen Haynes about how sports can create access, opportunity, and education for youth across the metro.

The Pillars January session focused on Development in Kansas City, exploring how the city can grow while still respecting its rich history and communities.

The session began with a presentation by Kekeli Dawes (Multistudio), Bryce Cummings (DRAW), and Jay Currie Campbell (Multistudio) who discussed the masterplanning process at 18th & Vine for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and emphasized the importance of setting clear priorities while preserving the soul of the historic Jazz District.

The group then visited the Berkley Riverfront Development, where Ryan Campbell (Director of Commerical Administration at CommunityAmerica Credit Union) provided an in-depth look at fundamental business finance concepts and how financial and design industries intersect to bring new developments to life. The discussion continued with Aaron Plump (Development Manager at Port KC) who highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in transforming Kansas City’s riverfront and shared early insights into preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Overall, the session gave Pillars a comprehensive understanding of how projects are shaping Kansas City, the financial systems behind them, and how designers can better serve communities by honoring their history, preserving their character, and sustaining their roots.

The Pillars December session focused on transportation in Kansas City and what it will take to keep our city moving as we continue to grow.

The session started with a panel / Presentation featuring Michael Shaw (Assistant Director of Kansas City Public Works), Greg Bolon (District Engineer at MoDOT), and Olivia English (Founder of LiveGreenUSA). They discussed road construction and maintenance, long-term infrastructure planning, and how Kansas City is preparing for a major influx of visitors, especially with the 2026 World Cup approaching.

From there, the Pillars hopped on the KC Streetcar and headed to the KC Streetcar Authority for a presentation and behind-the-scenes tour with Lauren Krutty, Director of Operations & Planning. The group learned what it takes to run the streetcar system day to day, how service schedules are determined, and the long-term vision for Kansas City’s transit network. Of course… they also got to meet Brushy, a crowd favorite!

This session gave our Pillars a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping KC’s transportation future and the critical role they play in designing a more efficient, sustainable, and connected city.

Our final award of the evening, Project of the Year, was presented by Apex Engineers, Inc. This project was the jury’s favorite, exemplifying design excellence above all other submissions. It shows skill, restraint, and smart design at every turn.

Congratulations to FOCAL Design Studio for Collegiate House!


Image Credit: Michael Robinson Photography

This project is cleverly connected, full of gathering spots, and surprisingly civic in presence. Congratulations to Multistudio for receiving an Honor Award for the Lee’s Summit High School Addition and Renovation.


Image Credit: Leonid Furmansky

The last Merit Award of the evening goes to Washburn Rural North Middle School by Multistudio. This project steals the show at first glance with red boxes that are impossible to ignore. Congratulations!


Image Credit: Michael Robinson Photography

Congratulations to DRAW Architecture + Urban Design, LLC for receiving a Merit Award for the Forest Hill Village Apartments.


Image Credit: Aaron Dougherty

Multistudio received a Merit Award for Lee’s Summit Robotics. The jury noted that even the most modest of buildings can make a big impact. Nice work!


Image Credit: Michael Robinson Photography

The Theatre in the Park Gateway project takes the everyday and turns it into something extraordinary. Great work, Dake Wells Architecture!


Image Credit: Mike Sinclair

Our final Citation Award of the evening goes to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Osborne Legacy Complex. Congratulations to the architecture team of Populous and BVH Architecture.


Image Credit: Matt Kocourek