Research-Based Approach to Architecture: Jackie Hogan M.Arch + MS.Arch ‘25
Jackie Hogan (’25 M.Arch + MS.Arch) is a dual-degree graduate of CAPLA whose work bridges architectural practice and research-driven design. Drawn to architectural history, theory and ethics, she pursued the M.Arch + MS.Arch dual degree to explore how research can shape meaningful design decisions. During her time at CAPLA, she engaged in community-centered design through Laura Carr’s studio working with the Tuba City community and completed a thesis examining architecture’s role in disaster relief and climate-related emergencies. Now working at Line + Space, Hogan brings an evidence-based approach to projects, applying research to create thoughtful spaces that connect people, culture and the environment.
CAPLA Lecturer and Alumni Win 2025 AIA Arizona Ideas Competition
Senior Lecturer in Architecture Oscar Lopez and three CAPLA alumni won first place in the 2025 AIA Arizona Ideas Competition for their proposal “BLOCK UP.” The project reimagines the urban tower as a vertical civic framework for Phoenix, integrating public space, housing and climate-responsive design into a shared, adaptable structure. Developed through close collaboration between Lopez and alumni Sal Arellano, Trevor Watson and Cameron Noble, the proposal explores how density can expand community and access beyond the street level, highlighting CAPLA’s impact on forward-thinking, civic-minded design in Arizona.
CAPLA Professor Ladd Keith Discusses Urban Heat Islands in Las Vegas Review-Journal Article
Planning and Sustainable Built Environments Assistant Professor Ladd Keith was quoted in a recent Las Vegas Review-Journal article on urban heat islands and how heat and coronavirus bring a double threat to vulnerable populations.
The Youth Parish: Juliana Seymour '20 B.Arch
By reinterpreting historic New Orleans typologies and fabricating a newly vibrant and adaptable environment, Juliana Seymour transforms an underutilized parking lot into an opportunistic youth haven.
Challenging the Norm: Susannah Dickinson, Associate Professor of Architecture
Associate Professor of Architecture Susannah Dickinson, who joined CAPLA in 2009 after practicing architecture full-time, sees teaching and research as an opportunity for personal growth and lifelong learning and also a chance to give back to the next generation of architects.
House of Transparency: Damon Leverett, Senior Lecturer in Architecture
The House of Transparency by Damon Leverett is the competition entry for the 1997 design competition conducted by Transparency International. The building serves as an exhibition, meeting and contemplation space.
Introducing the CAPLA Student Technology Initiative: An Urgent Need for Students
CAPLA students are facing a critical moment—returning for the Fall 2020 semester without access to the technology they need to succeed. To help them bridge the gap, CAPLA launched the CAPLA Student Tech and Materials crowdfunding initiative at crowdfund.arizona.edu/caplatech
A Broad Spectrum of Energy: Sara Ghaemi '20 MS Arch
Sara Ghaemi, who holds a bachelor's degree in architectural engineering from Iran, came to CAPLA to study the Master of Science in Architecture because it provides an opportunity to focus on sustainability and energy efficiency in the built environment.
A Focus on Emerging Building Technologies: Maryam Moradnejad '20 MS Arch
Maryam Moradnejad, who holds a Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Construction Management from Iran, came to CAPLA to study the Master of Science in Architecture because of the opportunity to research emerging building technologies.
Improving Design Outcomes: Altaf Engineer, Assistant Professor of Architecture
Assistant Professor of Architecture Altaf Engineer, who joined CAPLA in 2017, has always felt a deep responsibility to apply his knowledge and skills to address critical health, social and environmental issues affecting humans worldwide.
Staying Present in Design and Construction: Liz Madsen '20 M.Arch
Liz Madsen, who is from Tucson, entered the Master of Architecture program after receiving undergraduate degrees in architectural studies and urban planning. She chose CAPLA in part because of the world-class Materials Lab.