Global Vision | Armenian Roots: A Public Lecture by Ronald A. Altoon, FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, SCDP

Mr. Altoon (the design architect of the AUA Paramaz Avedisian Building) will address how, coming from modest circumstances with a good education and high motivation, one can create a global vision, engage others in embracing that vision and take the necessary prudent risks to achieve it—essential aspects of leadership that will help young architects pursue their professional ambitions. Importantly, the talk will address the adaptation of design principles and practices to building designs for varying cultures around the world as well as the growing global awareness of human environmental impact and responsibility of the building- and city-design professions in this respect.

For nearly 30 years Ronald Altoon’s architectural practice, Altoon Partners (www.altoonpartners.com) has designed retail based mixed-use and institutional projects across the globe. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the firm has offices in Amsterdam, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Moscow. Sustainable design, the regeneration of urban centers, the balance between public places and private space, and the exploration of new technologies are among the principles guiding the work of his practice. The firm has had a sustained commitment to create contemporary architecture that responds to specifics of context and culture and that builds and nurtures a vital sense of community. Mr. Altoon has served as the president of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) from 1997 to 1998. He is a Fellow of the AIA and has been given honorary memberships and awards throughout the world including in Canada, Australia, Japan, Russia, Egypt, Mexico, and Armenia.