Join AIA Southwest WI in touring the Center for Black Excellence & Culture

The Center for Black Excellence & Culture is a transformational cultural education and economic center intended to realize Black excellence embedded in the Greater Madison community. The design of The Center revolves around the ‘Black Aesthetic’, incorporating elements of drama, ‘will to adorn’, asymmetry, among other qualities. The Center was designed to celebrate and encompass Black culture both through the architectural design and in its programming in approx. 42,000 SF across three levels. The programming includes innovation & leadership development spaces; culture, entertainment and gathering places, performance theatres & studios, as well as wellness spaces. Join us as we get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the development, design, and construction of this new icon in the Madison area. We will gather insight into the project design and development as we walk the building with the lead designer, building owner, and general contractor.

After the building tour, we invite you to join us for refreshments with the project team. You won't want to miss this one!

Please meet in the main lobby at 3:30pm, where we will begin the building tour. Parking is available at the Fountain of Life church parking lot.

Presenters:

• Rafeeq Asad, JLA (Lead Designer)
• Dr. Alex Gee, Center for Black Excellence and Culture, Inc. (Building Owner)
• Findorff (General Contractor) Representative

Learning Objectives:

• Evaluate Integration of Design (the Black Aesthetic) and Cultural Narrative
• Assess how architectural decisions—including layout, circulation, and spatial hierarchy—reinforce cultural storytelling and create meaningful, identity-driven spaces.
• Understand Construction Methods for Complex Design Execution- Participants will review the construction techniques, sequencing strategies, and coordination efforts required to realize unique architectural features, with a focus on translating complex design intent into built form.
• Examine Material Selection and Performance- Participants will investigate the materials and systems used throughout the project, considering their aesthetic, structural, and performance characteristics, and how they contribute to durability, sustainability, and design expression.

Submitted for AIA/CES Approval

This tour is offered in collaboration with JLA Architects and the National Organization of Minority Architects

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