⭐️ Congratulations to Central Virginia community member, Willie Greenough! ⭐️
Recipient of the AIA Virginia Honor, Honorary Membership.
AIA Virginia is proud to announce that Willie Greenough has been selected for Honorary Membership in 2025, a distinction reserved for individuals of esteemed character who, though not eligible for conventional membership, have made exemplary and sustained contributions to architecture and the built environment.
Willie Greenough is a masterful model builder known for his meticulous craft, artistic integrity, and clarity of vision. Greenough brings a unique perspective informed by his lived experience as an autistic individual. As noted by his nominator, “Willie’s autism isn’t something he works around; it’s something he channels,” enabling him to make precise decisions that elevate his work.
Greenough’s models serve not only as tools for communication and design resolution but also as works of art that foster understanding and connection between architects, clients, and communities.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Willie Greenough will be honored at the Visions for Architecture Gala on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Richmond Downtown Marriott. Tickets available through ArchEx: www.aiava.org.
ArchEx 2025 - AIA Virginia - Nov. 5-7th
⭐️ Willie Greenough will also be speaking at ArchEx ‘25 in Richmond, Virginia! Register for Architecture Exchange East to attend Greenough’s session, along with many more breakout sessions, keynotes, and networking opportunities.
Architecture Exchange East is AIA Virginia’s premier educational event, bringing together architects, designers, educators, and industry professionals from across the region. The curated lineup includes thought-provoking keynotes, dynamic breakout sessions, and a vibrant exhibit hall featuring the latest innovations from vendors, consultants, and suppliers. It remains the largest annual gathering for Virginia-based architects and a vital space for sharing research, case studies, and bold ideas.
⭐️ Preserving the Hand in a Digital Future - See schedule here
Thursday, November 6th 2025 - 5-6pm
Speakers: Zach Grigg, Jeremy Grigg, Willie Greenough
Session Description: As architecture embraces digital tools—AI plans, 3D printing, parametric modeling—we must ask: what do we risk losing? This session explores the work of Willie Greenough, an autistic architectural model builder whose neurodivergence enables rare precision, focus, and care. Like a computer, his mind processes form and detail with logic—yet with the soul of the human hand. His models help designers and communities better see and feel a project’s potential. Led by longtime collaborator Jimmy Grigg, the panel includes Willie himself and filmmaker Zach Grigg, whose short film invites audiences to slow down and see architecture through a different lens.