Architectural Practice

As a practicing Architect of over twenty years, and current President of the American Institute of Architects, Northern Nevada Chapter, Richard Licata, AIA has provided leadership and expertise in the design and construction industries for many major projects in the Northern Nevada Region. Most notably, many community based projects such as the Master Planning and Professional Center at Washoe Medical Center; the Miguel Rivera Park and community center at the Neil Road Family Services Center; the Nevada State Railroad Museum; The United Blood Services building; and a number of pro bono skate parks in Northern Nevada and Northeastern California represents Ric's commitment to community design.

As a commitment to social and neighborhood issues Mr. Licata introduced the practice of community design processes in the development of a park and community center in an impoverished Reno district. Through his efforts community design workshops were conducted within the district to get the publics' ideas as to what they envisioned for their neighborhood

It has been said that Richard's building designs have “a spirit to them” that few can provide. This spirit and a commitment to the environment has led Mr. Licata to receive numerous awards in building design by the American Institute of Architects and the Northern Nevada Builders Association. He understands the “anatomy” of a building, and provides a solid grasp of the systems that comprise our structures. Richard began his architectural experience in the historically significant portions of downtown Helena , Montana.

From the onset of his career Richard and the AIA were closely associated. During his final year of undergraduate studies Richard won a national competition sponsored by the AIA. As a result of winning the competition Mr. Licata served an internship at AIA headquarters in Washington , D.C.

As President of the American Institute of Architects Mr. Licata's voice has been heard in support of local architects. Richard views the AIA as a mantle signifying a dedication to our community and participation in a very special profession.

A strong commitment to environmental issues have also characterized Richard's career. Awarded in energy conscious design and land-use development, Licata has recently authored a thesis entitled “ Sustainability and Urbanism, A Methodology to Create Regenerative Urban Systems .” He frequently speaks at seminars on integrating sustainability in design. His paper presented at that seminar titled “ Green Design for Productivity and Well-being, An Economic Basis for Sustainable Design ,” presented concepts and ideas researched for a cost effective approach to designing with daylighting and green building materials.

Richard Licata also practices what he believes by choosing to teach as a Professor of Architecture at Truckee Meadow Community College . His students have been honored nationally by the American Institute of Architects, Student Organization (AIAS) and locally by the Reno City Council. At the 2002 AIAS Convention Licata's two student teams took second and fifth places in a national competition. This was quite an achievement for teams from a two-year Associates of Architecture program going head to head with nationally accredited baccalaureate and masters programs.

Family

As a father of two sons, Dominic and Dante, Ric works closely with wife Shanna to create a balance between family life and a commitment to work excellence. Travel, art, skiing, soccer and hockey have provided many family time activities over the years.

AWARD JUDGES
Daniel Williams FAIA	Alice Kimm AIA	Jim Jennings AIA	Steven Saylor Artist	Andrea Turman Architectual Writer