Design to Trowel: Bridging Architecture & Craftsmanship Through Masonry

Friday, May 1, 2026 | Portland, Oregon 
4 LU/HSW

Join us to explore modern brick architecture, where innovative material combinations and modular masonry dimensions unlock new design possibilities. Through a dynamic mix of presentation and hands-on instruction, you’ll learn how thoughtful masonry design aligns with critical building standards, covering structural integrity, movement, moisture, and thermal control.

Then, roll up your sleeves for hands-on training guided by skilled BAC craftworkers. You’ll start with the basics of bricklaying and progress to constructing advanced assemblies such as arches.

This masonry training experience is tailored for architects and designers in the greater Portland and SW Washington area, with a focus on how creative design concepts are effectively translated from drawings to the field through craftsmanship and constructability insights.

 Please wear comfortable clothing and non-slip, closed-toed shoes.

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Agenda

11:30 a.m. | Registration
12-1 p.m. | Lunch & Seminar
1-1:15 p.m. | Break
1:15-3:15 p.m. | Workshop
3:15-3:30 p.m. | Closing & Q&A

Where

BAC Local 1 OR/WA/ID/MT
12812 NE Marx Street 
Portland, OR 97230 

Cost

While the seminar is free, registration is required and limited to 25-30 participants to ensure a quality hands-on experience. 

Learning objectives

  • Review innovative ways to combine concrete masonry units, stone, and clay units to create unique designs.

  • Evaluate masonry material choices related to unit sizes, bond patterns, special shapes, and installation options.

  • Summarize the structural requirements for various masonry backing systems and how they relate to various aesthetic details.

  • Implement code-based requirements for movement, moisture, and thermal protection detail requirements.

  • Explore best practices for brick installation to optimize construction quality.

  • Discover the skills of bricklaying by building a brick wall.

Speakers 

Cole Cabler
IMI Director Of Industry Development and Technical Services

Cole CablerCole is an architectural designer with a demonstrated history of working in the architecture and planning industry.

Before joining IMI, he worked for a variety of architecture firms in Oregon and Washington. In addition to project design and construction administration, he has served in project management and BIM leadership roles.

Questions

For questions or more information, contact Cole Cabler at ccabler@imiweb.org or (503) 367-4477.