The Knowledge Community on the Environment (KCOTE) works to advance, disseminate, and advocate—to the profession, the building industry, the academy, and the public—design practices that integrate built and natural systems and enhance both the design quality and environmental performance of the built environment. COTE serves as the community and voice on behalf of AIA architects regarding sustainable design and building science and performance.

AIA Framework for Design Excellence

Limited access to high-quality, concise, and usable information is a major barrier to the universal adoption of sustainable design. The Framework for Design Excellence is a resource, accessible to all, that closes the information gap to designing high performing, equitable, beautiful buildings. The framework is designed to provide relevant, general guidance to architects incorporating deep green principles from the beginning of every project. It organizes design thinking, facilitates conversations with clients, and develops meaningful goals and targets for climate action.

Presented by Tate Walker, AIA, LEED Fellow, WELL AP
Director of Sustainability – OPN Architects
Co-chair of the AIA 2030 Commitment



Co-Chairs: Alan D’Souza, AIA, and Marco Vincent, Assoc. AIA
Staff Liaison: Deanna Christiansen, Hon. AIA MN