AIA TN Conference 2023: Our Top 5 Moments

1. Excellence Shines at the AIA TN Conference: Showcasing HBG Design's Impact

The recent AIA TN Conference held in our hometown of Memphis was not just an event; it was a testament to the indelible mark that HBG Design continues to leave in our local design community. As the conference unfolded at the Hyatt Centric Beale Street – designed by HBG Design – the resonance of our team's commitment to innovation, diversity, and professional growth reverberated throughout the event.

AIA Tennessee hosts 2023 Conference on Architecture HBG Designed Hyatt Centric Beale Street Hotel, Memphis, TN

2. Nurturing Emerging Professionals: A Prestigious Acknowledgment

HBG Design was honored to be recognized as an Emerging Professionals Friendly Firm at the conference. This prestigious award underscores our dedication to creating nurturing environments that foster the growth and development of emerging talents within our industry. As firm believers in the power of mentorship and professional development, we are humbled to receive this recognition.

3. Diverse Voices Resound: Carmen Fluellen Jr. & Jeanne Myers Featured in 'Say it Loud' Exhibition

The "Say it Loud" exhibition celebrates the invaluable contributions of diverse designers, architects, engineers, and planners, amplifying their voices and experiences within the architecture and design fields. HBG Design team members Carmen Fluellen and Jeanne Myers were featured in this year's exhibition.

Carmen Fluellen

Carmen Fluellen's contributions have been pivotal in the development of notable projects such as the new 23-story, 317-room Four Winds South Bend Casino Resort in South Bend, Indiana, and the impressive $44.5 million, 155,600 SF Hyatt Centric in Memphis, Tennessee. His expertise was also key in the master planning of the proposed 85-acre, multi-building BLP Film Studios complex in the Whitehaven area of Memphis, Tennessee. This ambitious project is set to become the second largest African American-owned film studio in the U.S.

Carmen's commitment to excellence extends beyond the project site, as seen through his involvement with the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Memphis Chapter and his leadership in our Emerging Professionals Studio (EPS) program.

Jeanne Myers 

Jeanne's dedication to architecture and design is paralleled by her deep involvement with AIA Tennessee. Serving as the current AIA Tennessee Treasurer since 2020, Jeanne's leadership has played a pivotal role in the organization's success. Her commitment extends to the AIA TN Conference on Architecture Committee, where her innovative ideas have led to the creation of meaningful engagement opportunities for fellow professionals.

An embodiment of mentorship and support, Jeanne champions the achievements of emerging professionals through her leadership in the Newly Licensed Award since 2013. Jeanne's dedication to supporting the growth of young professionals and her commitment to fostering a sense of belonging within the architectural community are truly inspiring. Jeanne's journey also extends beyond her professional involvement to her feature in the "Say it Loud" exhibition.

4. Celebrating Achievement: Ryan Callahan's Architectural License

HBG Design's Ryan Callahan was recognized at this year's conference for achieving his architectural license. The architectural license is not merely a piece of paper; it represents years of hard work, continuous learning, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It embodies a profound understanding of the built environment and the impact that architecture has on shaping communities and enhancing lives. The HBG Design Emerging Professionals Studio thrives on mentorship, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, and Ryan’s success is a reflection of these principles in action.

5. Embodied Excellence: The Guest House at Graceland Tour

As the conference unfolded, attendees were offered a unique opportunity to delve into one of HBG Design's remarkable Memphis projects – The Guest House at Graceland. This tour showcased the marriage of design innovation and cultural resonance that defines our work. The Guest House at Graceland exemplifies our commitment to crafting transformative design experiences.