CHAPTER REPORT |Spring 2021

This quarter marked the change of EAA from unincorporated to incorporated charity as we made the transition to a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO). This has included the updating of our Constitution to reflect current charity regulations, the transfer of assets and reviewing our Strategy. It has been a long process, led by Past President, Julie Wilson and Honorary Treasurer, Ken Lochrie. We are thankful for their help in pushing this forward and coordinating with the various parties. Read more about the process here>>

The events group have created EAA INVITES, a series of talks by architects discussing their work and approach. The series started with a very interesting talk by Ryan W. Kennihan, which attracted a high number of attendees. This is the first in a series of discourses discussing emerging ideas and buildings by a range of architects.

The Education and mentoring group held a very successful virtual Part 3 Social event before the exam. This is an evolving strand working with ESALA to help students in university and transitioning to qualifying as architects. We were delighted that the event was attended by students from across Scotland and was also promoted by the RIBA. We are developing further ideas and events to continue the support and mentoring of students, including an informal ‘coffee with an Architect’ discussion session.

We have been attending the EUDP pre-application design reviews with Edinburgh Council, offering design advice on proposed developments within the city along with other design organisations. This is a key element of supporting Edinburgh Council to improve the design quality of buildings and places.

The EAA have been liaising with ACAN to support them in discussions with the Scottish Government regarding Climate targets and the importance of retrofit.

We are working with the GIA and the other Chapters to develop ideas for COP26 in November. This an exciting opportunity to work across the Chapters to highlight the importance of buildings in achieving Zero Carbon and the impacts of inactivity.

We are advertising for new Council members/Trustees to replace existing members whose terms are coming to an end at the forthcoming AMM in May.

Sadly, one of our Council members Michael Good passed away at the end of last year. He was a much-valued member of Council providing considered advice and support. He will be missed by all of us.