George Halkias, AIA

Name: George D. Halkias, AIA
Firm: Stantec
Family: wife Mary, daughter Lydia
Years in practice: 20
Education: B. Arch – Penn State University
Your first job: Student Intern with Tasso Katselas at the old Pittsburgh Airport.
Most embarrassing moment: In my first year back in Pittsburgh, I labeled the cover sheet for a permit set with the wrong contractor name. It did not take long for my phone to ring.
Building you would like to tear down: Allegheny Center. It creates a barrier between the North Shore and the North Side.
What is the best part of your job: Working with people who care.
What would you change about your job: As my daughter says, Architects have too many meetings.
What is the most annoying thing that architects do:  This question is far too general or too specific. Some people do not listen when they have already decided on the solution to a problem. Some Architects are no different in this regard.
Advice to young architects: Learn why we succeed and why we fail in our work.
The one thing you wish they would have taught in school: Good business decision making.
Architectural quote to practice by: “Change is good.” I am glad that Build Pittsburgh adopted it this year. We are in the business of change, let’s embrace it.
What is the next big architectural trend: The next trend is to learn from our history. The master builder.
Code/zoning requirement I would change if given the chance: Side setbacks – build closer together. The reasons should be obvious.
Favorite tool (can be digital, drafting, physical, etc): A pen. I use it to think.
Favorite architecture book: Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino
Architect you would like to have a drink with: Antonio Gaudi: A remarkable talent with an equally remarkable humility.  Both qualities to strive for.
Someday I would like to: Travel to South America.
People would be surprised to know that: I have two half written musicals – you know, just waiting to have some spare time to finish.
Building you would like to renovate into something else and why: The Union Trust Building or the Lord & Taylor Building. Grand old buildings like these deserve a better fate.
Where you live in Pittsburgh and why you think it is great: I live in Mt. Lebanon, walking distance from the shops and the T. The schools and the neighborhoods are great.
Something you would like to learn how to build with your own hands: Stained glass.
Favorite Kennywood ride: The Thunderbolt, it’s still the best.
Best gift to give an architect:  A challenge.
I want to be remembered for: Honesty. That would be great.
I belong to the AIA because: The people I have met through my involvement have made me a better person and a better architect.