Join AIA Milwaukee for the annual End of Year Member Appreciation Party with OMA!

Jason Long, AIA, Partner at OMA and leader of the studio’s diverse portfolio in the Americas, will explore five transformative projects that reframe how buildings interact with the public realm. Through wide-ranging case studies of projects in New York, Detroit, Houston, and San Francisco, we can better understand how adaptive reuse and community focused architecture can impact the future of cities like Milwaukee.

Earlier this year, the Office of the Mayor proclaimed 2026 the “Year of Housing” while promoting a vision for the City of Milwaukee to reach a population of one million residents. Coalitions, like Rethink 794, have sparked debates over the merits of differing investments in infrastructure to provide for the needs of our evolving city. How can architecture navigate such social-political subjects to foster a resilient and meaningful community? Join us to examine how transformative projects from OMA shape social infrastructure and catalyze contemporary cities.

This event is generously sponsored by Westlake Royal Building Products, ATAS International, and Harwood Engineering Consultants.

Agenda:

5:30 ARRIVAL: Networking and mingling, heavy appetizers and drinks

6:10 WELCOME: Introductions, Word from our Sponsor, 2026 Programming Recap

6:30 JASON LONG: Presentation, Q&A (AIA/CES learning unit)

8:00 DEBRIEF: Socializing and after party at Boone and Crockett!

As with previous End of Year Events, the party will also showcase UWM SARUP sophomore studio design projects. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase votes to select the most compelling physical model. Student-designers of the top 3 projects are awarded. All proceeds will be donated to the Wisconsin Architect Foundation in support of student scholarships.

Lot parking is provided immediately north of the venue. Unrestricted street parking is also available. The entrance to The Cooperage is at the southeast portion of the parking lot facing the Hoan Bridge.

Learning Objectives:

• Evaluate Adaptive Reuse Strategies in Large-Scale Civic Developments: Analyze structural adaptations, interior circulation reconfigurations, and life-safety upgrades required to transform a 500,000 SF postal distribution facility into a mixed-use commercial, cultural, and agricultural hub.
• Examine Architectural Interventions Addressing Urban Housing Equity: Identify spatial allocation, daylighting optimizations, and egress solutions used to maximize affordable housing units while integrating ground-floor community services into tight urban infill sites.
• Assess Massing Strategies for High-Density Waterfront Developments: Evaluate methods for optimizing floor plates and maximizing public access to natural features along an active waterfront.
• Analyze Flexible Spatial Programming for Community-Oriented Arts Infrastructure: Determine design strategies for multi-functional cultural spaces examining how adaptable spaces foster community engagement within compact non-profit facilities. 5. Examine Strategies for Designing Educational Facilities Serving High-Density Public Programs: Analyze how architectural design balances flexible zoning and life-safety requirements to develop a charter school with cultural programming and resources serving the surrounding community.

Submitted for AIA/CES approval

No refunds day of event.

This special event is generously sponsored by Westlake Royal Building Products, ATAS International, and Harwood Engineering Consultants.

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