A Message from 2026 Foundation President, Peter Darby, AIA

Dear Architecture and Design Foundation and AIA Dallas community,

As we begin 2026, I want to extend a warm greeting to each of you and thank you for your continued commitment to advancing architecture and design in Dallas. The Architecture and Design Foundation, in partnership with AIA Dallas, plays an essential role in connecting our profession to the broader community: fostering education, inspiring curiosity, and elevating the impact of architecture and design professionals in shaping a strong, thriving city.

As part of our continued growth, we are proud to announce that the Architecture and Design Exchange (AD EX) will be transitioning to a new name – the Dallas Architecture Center. This change reflects our purpose, our expanding presence, and our commitment to serving Dallas and the broader region as a hub for architecture and design-based education and dialogue. As the Dallas Architecture Center, our Foundation will continue to bring architecture and design to life through a variety of programs, community tours, and collaborative events that help the public understand the value and impact of architecture in our daily lives.

As we look ahead to this next chapter, we are taking time to thoughtfully reflect on who we are, who we serve, and how our brand shows up in the community. We believe the strongest identity is shaped not in isolation, but in partnership. Your perspective matters. As we reimagine and refine our brand, we invite you to share your honest feedback so we can better understand how you experience the Foundation today, and how it can continue to evolve in ways that serve and inspire our community. Please take this quick survey and join us in being excited about our future impact.

This year, we will continue to expand our Foundation’s educational initiatives, grow partnerships across the region, and continue building momentum toward a more visible and impactful presence. None of this work is possible without the generosity and engagement of our members, sponsors, and supporters like you.

One of the most important ways you can support the Foundation is through sponsorship of the upcoming Gala for Architecture on Thursday, March 26 at the historic Union Station in downtown Dallas. This event is not only a celebration of our profession; it is also, a critical fundraiser that directly sustains our Foundation’s programs and operations. Your sponsorship directly funds exhibitions, student programs, public programming, and community outreach efforts that extend far beyond a single evening.

Your support makes these programs possible.

As the 2026 President, I am excited about the year ahead and the opportunities we have to grow our Foundation and strengthen the role of design in shaping Dallas’ future. I invite you to stay engaged, attend programs, bring colleagues and clients into the conversation, and join us at the Gala as we celebrate what we can accomplish together.

Thank you for your continued support of the Architecture and Design Foundation and for helping us advance the mission in 2026.

With appreciation,
Peter Darby, AIA
2026 President, Architecture and Design Foundation