Innovative AAC Workshop Summer Program Promotes Building Reuse for Students

The upcoming summer of 2025 heralds an exciting opportunity for architecture students worldwide. The aac Workshop, a biannual program organized by the Academy for Architectural Culture (aac), will bring together young, aspiring architects to reimagine the ExxonMobil Building in Houston, Texas.

This initiative is supported by the gmp Foundation and organized in collaboration with the Rice University School of Architecture. The program aims to transform the iconic skyscraper into a beacon of sustainability. Participants will engage in a month-long intensive studio experience, culminating in a public design exhibition, to propose feasible design solutions that steer the building towards a carbon-free future.

About the aac Workshop

The aac Workshop is a unique biannual program that has been held twice every year since 2008. It offers architecture students and recent graduates a multicultural learning environment where they can collaborate with leading international practitioners.

The core objective of the workshop is to address critical architectural issues while fostering the education and growth of young architects.

Supporting Organizations

The aac Academy for Architectural Culture is a private, non-profit organization based in Hamburg, Germany. It was founded by the renowned global architectural firm, von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects (gmp). The aac is dedicated to conducting research and providing intensive educational courses throughout the year, with a focus on developing solutions to contemporary architectural challenges.

The gmp Foundation, established by gmp Architects, supports the aac Workshop. The foundation is mission-driven, aiming to empower architecture students by providing them with the resources and mentorship needed to innovate and excel in their field.

Workshop Details

The summer 2025 iteration of the aac Workshop will run from June 2 to June 27. During this period, participants will create feasible design proposals to transform the ExxonMobil Building, originally built in 1963 and an icon of the fossil fuel industry, into a model of sustainability.

Program Highlights

• Advisory Input and Mentorship: Participants will receive guidance from renowned experts, including gmp executive partner Stephan Schütz and architect Charles Renfro, partner at Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
• Multicultural Learning Environment: The workshop brings together students from around the world, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and cultural perspectives.
• Collaboration with Rice University: The program is organized in collaboration with the Rice University School of Architecture, enhancing the educational experience with academic rigor and local expertise.
• Extensive Scholarships: The aac Workshop offers extensive scholarships to ensure that talented students from diverse backgrounds can participate.
• Public Design Exhibition: The workshop will culminate in a public design exhibition, showcasing the innovative proposals developed by the participants.

The Significance of the ExxonMobil Building Transformation

The ExxonMobil Building, a prominent feature of Houston’s skyline, represents a significant challenge and opportunity for the participants of the aac Workshop. Built in 1963, the skyscraper is a symbol of the fossil fuel industry.

The goal of the workshop is to envision a future where this iconic structure is transformed into a carbon-free community, addressing the urgent need for sustainable architectural solutions.

Focus on Sustainability

As the world grapples with the climate crisis, the architectural profession must pivot towards sustainability. The concept of *umbau*, or continuously transforming existing structures, is central to this shift.

The aac Workshop aims to equip the next generation of architects with the skills and knowledge needed to lead this transformation.

Participants will explore innovative design solutions that prioritize environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and social responsibility. By reimagining the ExxonMobil Building, they will contribute to a broader dialogue on how existing structures can be adapted to meet contemporary needs while reducing their environmental impact.

Educational and Professional Growth

The aac Workshop is more than just a design challenge; it is an opportunity for participants to grow both educationally and professionally. The program offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, supported by mentorship from leading architects and experts in the field.

Mentorship and Collaboration

One of the key strengths of the aac Workshop is the mentorship provided by experienced professionals. Participants will work closely with mentors like Stephan Schütz and Charles Renfro, gaining insights into the complexities of architectural practice and the importance of innovative thinking.

This collaborative environment encourages participants to push the boundaries of their creativity while learning from the experiences and perspectives of their peers and mentors. The workshop’s emphasis on teamwork and cross-cultural exchange further enriches the learning experience.

How to Apply

Applications for the summer 2025 aac Workshop are open through February 10. Current architecture students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply.

Detailed information about the application process, including scholarship opportunities, can be found on the aac Workshop summer program page.

Eligibility and Selection

To be eligible for the aac Workshop, applicants must be current architecture students or recent graduates. The selection process is competitive, with a focus on identifying candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability and innovative design.

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to participate in a transformative educational experience that will shape their future careers in architecture. The aac Workshop offers a platform for emerging architects to showcase their talents and contribute to the development of sustainable architectural solutions.

Conclusion

The summer 2025 aac Workshop represents a unique opportunity for architecture students. It allows them to engage with pressing environmental challenges and contribute to the transformation of an iconic structure.

By participating in this intensive program, young architects will gain valuable skills, knowledge, and experience. These will prepare them to lead the profession towards a more sustainable future.

For more information about the aac Workshop and to apply, visit the aac Workshop summer program page.