Architects Raise Funds for Japan

CENTERBROOK, Conn. – The New Haven chapter of Architecture for Humanity (AFH) recently hosted an event to benefit the reconstruction of Japan and to encourage a nation that has long inspired artists and architects around the world. “PechaKucha, Inspire Japan” raised more than $900 for ongoing relief efforts following the devastating March earthquake and tsunami.

The event followed Pecha Kucha style, a presentation format invented in Japan using 20 images shown for 20 seconds each. Speakers focused on four main themes: Inspire, Japan, The Issues, and Recovery. The local effort was part of a worldwide campaign in 105 cities. Donations can still be made at global-day.pecha-kucha.org

Three Centerbrook architects – Ed Keagle, AIA, Harding Dowell, AIA, and Patrick McKenna, LEED AP – were among those who organized and spoke at the gathering held at New Haven’s Bar Pizza, which donated the space for the event. Centerbrook donated the audio visual equipment for the evening. Melissa Arminio, AIA, LEED AP and Dan Batt, AIA, LEED AP, are also members of the New Haven chapter of AFH.

Architecture for Humanity is a global network of design professionals who volunteer their services for a variety of groups in need. Clients include community groups, housing developers, aid organizations, and government agencies. Inspired by the success of the national organization, local architects formed the New Haven chapter in 2009.