Growing Legacy, Sharing Insight: Z Group at the 2025 AIA Practice + Design Conference
- Z Group Architecture & Interior Design
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Z Group Architecture & Interior Design was proud to attend the 2025 AIA Practice + Design Conference in Keystone, Colorado, this November. Representing the firm were Seth Hmielowski (Senior Principal), Scott McHale (Principal & Director of Design), Max Hemmy (Architectural Designer), Evan Weller (Architectural Designer), and Ian Foster (Architectural Designer).
Each year, Z Group selects emerging and senior team members to attend this key event, reflecting our belief that great design starts with great people. Innovation, mentorship, and intergenerational knowledge sharing are built into our firm’s DNA.
Design Culture That Evolves
From sustainability to artificial intelligence, the 2025 AIA Colorado conference spotlighted how innovation can deepen human-centered design. These themes echo Z Group’s values—where nature, legacy, and storytelling shape every project, from Aspen to the Western Slope and beyond.
“The AIA Colorado conference was a great opportunity to connect with others in the field and see how people are approaching the future of architecture,” shared Architectural Designer Max Hemmy. “I explored new products and updates on familiar ones, which sparked some fresh ideas for our own work.”
AI emerged as a particularly prominent topic—not just as a tool, but in terms of how it’s shifting trust and workflow dynamics across the profession.
“There was a lot of honest conversation about AI, how people are using it, and where they think it fits—or doesn’t—in their workflows,” Max added. “Overall, I think the conference highlighted how the industry is tackling today’s environmental challenges and adapting as architecture continues to evolve with the world around us.”
Expanding on this, Architectural Designer Evan Weller noted how the event brought forward critical conversations around AI’s role in the architectural process—especially as firms explore more technology-integrated design systems. Sessions also emphasized the importance of grounding design in community, climate, and cultural context, especially in public and hospitality work.
“Z Group’s willingness to adapt to new technologies is key to our success all the way through the firm structure. While AI is inevitable for all architects, some resist the changing tide. We continue to be on the cutting edge of these processes for small to mid-size firms, which is setting us up for continued success in difficult markets,” said Weller.
Mentorship as a Design Strategy
At Z Group, mentorship is embedded in the way we grow as designers and collaborators. Rather than sending the same senior leaders to industry events year after year, the firm takes a rotational approach, empowering rising team members to engage directly with the evolving conversations shaping architecture today.
This intergenerational knowledge-sharing ensures that ideas flow both ways—from seasoned experts to emerging talent and back again.
“You really feel Z Group's investment in your development,” said Ian Foster. “It’s not just about future buildings—it’s about building us up, too.”
Whether it's exploring the role of AI, learning about new materials, or attending design-thinking workshops, team members are invited to return from conferences like AIA Colorado with insights that enrich both their own development and the collective culture of the firm.
“We believe in shared exposure,” said Principal Scott McHale. “This supports both individual growth and Z Group’s culture.”
Through this model, Z Group invests in people just as much as projects—cultivating leadership, curiosity, and a forward-thinking mindset at every level of the practice.
Back to Aspen with Fresh Perspective
The 2025 AIA Practice + Design Conference sparked rich conversations around climate-responsive materials, AI-enhanced workflows, and placemaking strategies grounded in community needs. These themes—central to the future of architecture—are already informing Z Group's approach to residential, commercial, and hospitality projects across Aspen, Snowmass, and the broader Roaring Fork Valley.
Whether exploring how emerging technologies like AI can streamline design delivery, or how local vernacular and environmental context can elevate user wellness, the team returned with tools and inspiration to shape more meaningful, sustainable spaces.
“The beauty of the Rocky Mountains inspires our designs,” said Senior Principal Seth Hmielowski, “but it’s the brilliance of our people that brings those visions to life.”
As the industry continues to evolve, Z Group remains grounded in its legacy—and bold in its vision for what’s next.
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FAQs
What is the AIA Practice + Design Conference?
The AIA Practice + Design Conference is a premier annual event hosted by AIA Colorado, gathering architects, designers, and thought leaders to explore trends in sustainability, technology, and the evolving role of architecture in society.
Why did Z Group attend the 2025 AIA Conference?
Z Group attends to stay on the leading edge of innovation, deepen its commitment to sustainable design, and support emerging talent through professional development and mentorship.
Who from Z Group attended the 2025 conference?
The 2025 team included Seth Hmielowski (Senior Principal), Scott McHale (Principal & Director of Design), Max Hemmy (Architectural Designer), Evan Weller (Architectural Designer), and Ian Foster (Architectural Designer).
What were key takeaways from the conference?
Topics included sustainable architecture, climate-responsive materials, AI-enhanced workflows, and community-driven design. These insights are now influencing Z Group’s ongoing projects across Aspen and the Western Slope.
How does Z Group support emerging architects?
Each year, different team members—especially junior designers—are chosen to attend key industry events. This rotational approach fosters intergenerational knowledge-sharing and leadership development.
How does this align with Z Group’s values?
The conference experience reflects Z Group’s core values: legacy, collaboration, site-sensitive innovation, and nurturing people as much as design. Our projects reflect the depth of that investment.
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