Bernheimer Architecture's Historic Union Victory: A Beacon for Architectural Workers
This July marked a significant milestone in the history of architectural labor organizing in the United States. The ratification of the first collective bargaining agreement at Bernheimer Architecture, a small New York-based firm, represents a hard-won victory for workers in a field that has long been resistant to unionization.
The journey to unionization began in 2022 when employees at Bernheimer Architecture, represented by the Architectural Workers United (AWU), successfully organized. Unlike previous attempts that were often met with fierce resistance from management, Bernheimer voluntarily recognized the union. This unexpected move paved the way for negotiations that culminated in a groundbreaking contract.
The agreement, negotiated over a year, offers substantial benefits to BA workers, including just-cause job protections and a 36-hour workweek. These gains highlight the potential for even seemingly positive work environments to benefit from unionization.
While Bernheimer's success is a cause for celebration, it is important to note that the firm's size and culture played a role in its successful unionization. The smaller scale of the firm and its relatively positive work environment may have made it more amenable to unionization compared to larger, more established firms.
The Need for Unions in Architecture
Despite the romantic image often associated with architects, the reality for many in the field is far less glamorous. Low pay, long hours, and a culture of overwork are common experiences. The increasing use of computer-aided design and building information modeling (BIM) has led to a division of labor that can result in monotonous and repetitive tasks.
Moreover, issues of race, gender, and class continue to plague the architecture profession. The percentage of Black architects remains low, women are underrepresented, and women in the field earn less than men.
The unionization of Bernheimer Architecture offers hope for a more equitable and just future for architectural workers. While the path may be challenging, the potential benefits of unionization are significant. By securing better wages, working conditions, and job protections, unions can help to improve the lives of architects and ensure that the profession continues to evolve in a positive direction.