For ample reason, Americans are paying close attention to the ethics of our government, our institutions, and our industries.  Similarly, the American Institute of Architects [AIA] has long declared that “Ethics and integrity are essential to our work.”

I’m a long-standing AIA member, elevated in 1993 to its select College of Fellows. AIA’s Code of Ethics binds my conduct as well as that of my staff.

We require everyone involved in our work to conduct themselves to the same high level of integrity. In every proposal and interview, and during every project, we assert that we always tell the truth and deal with sensitive issues or problems immediately. [To be clear, health, safety, and welfare demands are different, legal requirements.]

Of course, I’d like Helpern Architects to be remembered for the projects we’ve designed and relationships we’ve forged. I also want us to be known for the ethical way we have conducted ourselves for over half a century. You have my handshake on that.

David Paul Helpern, FAIA