Design by Diversity Block Party

K-12 STEAM Education

City of Los Angeles

Expand existing project, program, or initiative

Design by Diversity (DxD) is a sub-committee of Architecture for Communities Los Angeles focusing on public awareness of the power of architecture to transform lives and creating K-12 outreach programs to develop a more diverse talent pipeline. Each year an Architect of remarkable legacy will be featured. Paul Revere Williams, a renowned architect, was highlighted the 2022 inaugural event. An orphan and person of color, Williams' entrance into the world of architecture was unique. Through perseverance and significant obstacles, Williams became known as the "Architect of Hollywood" where he designed many homes with a range of eclectic styles. He is also known for designing the Beverly Hills Hotel and as part of the design team of the Theme Building at LAX. Throughout his live, he prioritized charitable work with the African American community in LA and across the United States. Passing in 1980, it is in his name we celebrate diverse culture, values and carry on his trail-blazing legacy

Following are the Design by Diversity Block Party activities: Booths: Over 30 partners hosting booths with activities, information for students on educational pathways, including community colleges and universities, and community initiatives, as well as peers and professionals to answer questions and provide guidance to students of all ages. Opening and Closing Keynotes: Representing the Southern California design community, these 2 members of the American Institute of Architects provide inspiration and insight to the paths they have taken in the architectural profession. Engagement Sessions: Morning and afternoon sessions where students sign up for a one-on-one session with a design professional. Student Competition Exhibit: Student graphic work is on display for viewing and public voting. Students will submit projects that are inspired by the Design by Diversity mission. Winning entries are presented prizes at the closing ceremony and all student work is featured in future DxD initiatives. 2x8 Exhibit: Those attending are able to view the scholarship winners from the annual design competition hosted by ACLA that features work of students selected from 19 higher education architecture programs in Southern California. Food & Beverages are available throughout the event.

ACLA and the Design by Diversity committee works to inspire people to value architecture, and empower everyone to create a better Los Angeles; one student, one building, one community at a time. This program focuses on being at the forefront of architecture education and community building, advocating for good design created by and for all people of Los Angeles. This introduction will begin to cultivate design advocates and professionals by ensuring every person in LA has the opportunity to learn how good design improves our lives. The learnings from the Block Party will help foster participation and equity in the development of future community leaders by providing tools for community-driven decision-making.

Design by Diversity is an early stage project and supported by Architecture for Communities Los Angeles. This program’s success can be measured through increasing the number of high school students introduced to careers in architecture, design, engineering and construction. Our 2022 inaugural event was supported by 150 volunteers with over 100 students attending (over 200 with parents and siblings). $46,000 was raised in sponsorships, part of which was used to support the student competition and awards. For 2023, we anticipate increasing these numbers by 50%. Long term success will be created when the architectural profession increases its diversity, its equity and its inclusion across the profession, when architecture becomes a fluent language in the building and planning of our City and when the study of architecture inspires the next generation of community and professional leaders to represent all of Los Angeles County.