AIA|DC Hosts Conference on Micro-Units in the National Capital Region

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwired - Feb 21, 2014) - One of the biggest innovations in Washington's smart growth may also be the smallest: the advent of micro-units. This small living trend -- where apartments are usually 200 to 350 sq. ft. -- are sweeping through urban areas from San Francisco to New York. Although few micro-units have been built in DC, several projects are in planning, indicating growing interest.

To shed light on the feasibility of micro-units, the Washington Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA|DC) and George Mason University's Center for Real Estate Entrepreneurship (GMU CREE) are partnering on a special one-day conference (http://bit.ly/1f34vh5) at the District Architecture Center. On Wednesday, February 26, architecture, real estate, and financial experts will address the theory, practice, and potential of micro-unit apartments in the DC metropolitan region.

"Micro-units are redefining the concept of space, with people valuing the livability outside their walls and not merely the square footage within them," said Mary Fitch, AIA|DC Executive Director. "We're pleased to host a conference focused on how smart, creative, well-designed micro-unit living can become part of the city's fabric, accommodating growth in DC with a 'less is more' approach."

Following introductions by Fitch and Robert Wulff, the Director of GMU CREE, the program will include:

• Macro View on Micro-Units: A National Review of an Emerging Trend
  Charles Hewlett, Robert Charles Lesser and Company (RCLCO)
  
  
• Demographic Imperative for Micro-Unit Demand in the National Capital Region
  David Versel, George Mason University Center for Regional Analysis
  
  
• Regulatory and Financing Barriers to Micro-Unit Development
  Robert Kronenberg, Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission
  Rabbiah Sabbakahn, DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs
  Kurt Marx, United Bank
  Fred Selden, Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning
  
  
• Local Micro Unit-Case Study: The Wharf Project Apartments
  Matt Steenhoek, PN Hoffman
  Sandy Silverman, AIA, Perkins Eastman

What: Living Small: The Design & Development of Micro-Units in the National Capital Region

When: Wednesday, February 26, 2014, 8:30AM - 4:00PM

Where: District Architecture Center, 421 7th Street NW Washington, DC 20004

For press RSVP, please contact dfox@aiadc.com.

Organized by:
AIA|DC
George Mason University Center for Real Estate Entrepreneurship

Sponsored by:
Creative Laundry Systems
Grunley

About AIA|DC:
Founded in 1887, the Washington Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA|DC) serves the Nation's Capital. It advances the value of architecture for its members, the profession of architecture, and the community by providing advocacy, leadership and resources for architects to design a better world. AIA|DC was intimately involved in the design and planning of Washington, and continues to play an active role in city development today. For more information please visit www.aiadc.com