We’re excited to welcome Keith A. Simon, FAIA, as a keynote speaker at the 2026 AIA Tennessee Conference on Architecture on Thursday, August 13.
An expert in building enclosure technology, Keith Simon addresses the critical and often unmet need for ensuring and improving building performance, resilience, and durability by guiding design teams, educating future architects and facilitating interdisciplinary exchange. Keith is the VP of Design Phase Services at Salas O’Brien and is a fellow of the American Institute of Architects (FAIA).
He is a Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC), Legacy LEED AP and Building Enclosure Commissioning Provider (BECxP) with over 20 years of experience in architectural design and building enclosure consultation. His experience includes peer review, design assistance, durability analysis, construction administration, testing and forensics of building envelope issues. Keith was the founder of the AIA Austin Building Enclosure Council (BEC: Austin) and currently serves as a board member for BEC: Austin and the Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Alliance Austin Chapter. He also serves as the Vice Chair for the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) Building Enclosure Technology and Environment Council (BETEC) executive committee and Scholarships Chair for the Society of Building Science Educators (SBSE).
Design often requires balancing competing priorities. What is a tension in your work that you continue to wrestle with, and what has it taught you as a designer?
As an architect, a consultant, and a professor – I’ve always felt every decision must be performance based. I cringe when I see design decisions, in architecture, based solely on intuition/fashion/style – decisions devoid of meaning. This will be the crux of my talk. How can we ensure that our decisions are timeless and not led astray by the temporary whims of fashion and style?
Can you recall a project, experience, or moment that fundamentally challenged the way you think about design? How has that shift stayed with you?
I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Pampa Aullagas, Bolivia for two years. I lived without electricity and without running water during that time. I built my own latrine. Living in the traditional architecture (adobe walls, thatched roofs with cactus-wood beams) and with the people of Pampa Aullagas taught me far more about design and architecture than my undergraduate experience at Columbia University. Seeing and experiencing how vernacular architecture is the perfect melding of climate and culture was foundational for me as an architect.
What is something outside of architecture that continually informs your work?
My passion for sustainability comes from my love of the great outdoors. Our family is trying to visit all 88 Texas State Parks. We’re at 86! Spending time outside reminds us why sustainability is about balance – trying to find the right balance between the built and the wild.
What is a question you hope attendees leave your session asking themselves?
How long are my buildings meant to last? Will they last more than 50-years? Can I change my design process so that my buildings last more than 100 years? More than 1000-years?
As you prepare to visit Chattanooga, is there an aspect of the environment, design culture, or history you’re especially interested in experiencing or learning more about?
I have never been to Chattanooga and I am excited to visit! I have heard about its dynamic mix of 19th century industrial buildings, classic revival landmarks, and modern sustainable design. I hope to visit as much as I can while I’m there and enjoy some classic southern comfort food!