New Construction Is Not Always the Answer
01.19.2022
Housing, and creating more of it, is much more complex than a recent Atlantic piece suggests.
Housing, and creating more of it, is much more complex than a recent Atlantic piece suggests.
Jacob Ward on Artificial Intelligence and a World of Narrowing Choices
01.18.2022
NBC News’ science and technology correspondent talks about his new book, The Loop.
NBC News’ science and technology correspondent talks about his new book, The Loop.
Where is Architecture Going After the Pandemic Fades?
01.10.2022
We’re at a crucial pivot point, when transformational change is possible.
We’re at a crucial pivot point, when transformational change is possible.
Mapping Improvisation: The Role of Call and Response in Urban Planning
01.04.2022
How the Battle of the Grid played out in New Orleans and New York.
How the Battle of the Grid played out in New Orleans and New York.
Be Gentle With Yourself: Recovering the Vernacular Mind
01.03.2022
The vernacular is not a style, it’s a way of thinking and doing.
The vernacular is not a style, it’s a way of thinking and doing.
Our Top 10 Posts for 2021
12.30.2021
This was our best year ever.
This was our best year ever.
How Architecture Has Responded to Health Emergencies
12.28.2021
A new Cooper Hewitt exhibition demonstrates how the built environment can help mend us.
A new Cooper Hewitt exhibition demonstrates how the built environment can help mend us.
Alex Garvin and the Art of Pragmatic Planning
12.27.2021
A tribute to the architect and city planner, who died last week.
A tribute to the architect and city planner, who died last week.
Breaking the Dead Paradigm For Design Exhibitions
12.21.2021
Notes on the 2021 Chicago Architecture Biennial.
Notes on the 2021 Chicago Architecture Biennial.
Photographing Our Second Covid Christmas
12.20.2021
Camilo José Vergara documents the holiday season under the pandemic.
Camilo José Vergara documents the holiday season under the pandemic.
Michael Murphy on the Architecture of Health
12.14.2021
A talk with the co-founder of MASS Design Group on a new book and exhibition.
A talk with the co-founder of MASS Design Group on a new book and exhibition.
The Metaverse Lands in Downtown Los Angeles
12.13.2021
On Staples Center becoming Crypto.com Arena.
On Staples Center becoming Crypto.com Arena.
How the Pandemic Has Made Life Miserable for Architects and Builders
12.08.2021
Construction, a reliably unpredictable and volatile process, has become unreliable.
Construction, a reliably unpredictable and volatile process, has become unreliable.
My 15-Minute City: Lake Merritt, Oakland, California
12.06.2021
Communal spaces—and space for solace—are essential parts of our cities.
Communal spaces—and space for solace—are essential parts of our cities.
Reaching for Zero Energy in High Density Housing
12.01.2021
Five ways to think differently about lowering greenhouse gas emissions in multifamily projects.
Five ways to think differently about lowering greenhouse gas emissions in multifamily projects.
Edward Mazria on What’s Next After COP26
12.01.2021
The founder of Architecture 2030 does a post-mortem on the Glasgow Climate Summit and finds reasons for hope.
The founder of Architecture 2030 does a post-mortem on the Glasgow Climate Summit and finds reasons for hope.
Blending the Sacred and the Secular in Providence
11.29.2021
It’s a mistake to think of them as separate realms.
It’s a mistake to think of them as separate realms.
Where Are the Architectural Masterpieces?
11.23.2021
Maybe we’re beyond all that. Maybe that’s a good thing.
Maybe we’re beyond all that. Maybe that’s a good thing.
Duvall Decker Architects’ Thompson Center and the Long Arc of Practice
11.22.2021
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Bennie G. Thompson Academic & Civil Rights Research Center at Tougaloo College in Jackson, Mississippi.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Bennie G. Thompson Academic & Civil Rights Research Center at Tougaloo College in Jackson, Mississippi.
Asking Who Designs the City? Teaching Inclusive Architecture to Young Adults
11.17.2021
Introducing them to design through their own ideas of what makes a home—and a city.
Introducing them to design through their own ideas of what makes a home—and a city.
Architecture Schools in Rome Help Reuse and Renovate Public Housing
11.15.2021
Two projects offer viable models for tackling the city’s housing crisis.
Two projects offer viable models for tackling the city’s housing crisis.
A General Agreement for the Practice of Contemporary Architecture
11.09.2021
Some guiding principles for work in a fracturing world.
Some guiding principles for work in a fracturing world.
Channeling Andy Rooney: the Cranky, Complaining Architect
11.04.2021
Some gripes about the current state of architecture.
Some gripes about the current state of architecture.
ADUs Are Not Enough for California
11.02.2021
The recent elimination of single family zoning is a promising step, but must also work in concert with broader changes.
The recent elimination of single family zoning is a promising step, but must also work in concert with broader changes.
The Shed’s the Thing: How NYC Restaurants Adapted to Covid
10.28.2021
Do they represent revitalized city streets or add to congestion, noise, and garbage?
Do they represent revitalized city streets or add to congestion, noise, and garbage?
“Soft Infrastructure” Is Crucial for a Post-Carbon World
10.26.2021
Buildings can show how to make it happen.
Buildings can show how to make it happen.
Wave Hello to a Low-Cost Renewable Energy Advancement
10.25.2021
A hybrid wind/wave technology could produce enormous amounts of energy at relatively low cost.
A hybrid wind/wave technology could produce enormous amounts of energy at relatively low cost.
Sea Change: Community-Centered Planning in an Era of Risk and Uncertainty
10.19.2021
The challenges of planning for our climate emergency.
The challenges of planning for our climate emergency.
Confessions of a Recovering Traffic Engineer
10.18.2021
A new book on misguided assumptions of the people who design our roads.
A new book on misguided assumptions of the people who design our roads.
The Subversive Urbanism of Pixar Movies
10.13.2021
Upon closer inspection, the films seem preoccupied with the urban condition.
Upon closer inspection, the films seem preoccupied with the urban condition.
My Love/Hate Relationship With New York City
10.12.2021
A photo essay of urban triumphs and horrors.
A photo essay of urban triumphs and horrors.
Why Teaching Architecture Is Difficult
10.07.2021
Understanding more than one faith is much harder than dismissing all but your own.
Understanding more than one faith is much harder than dismissing all but your own.
A Scientist’s Surprising Optimism About Louisiana’s Coast
10.06.2021
A talk with Denise J. Reed, researcher at the University of New Orleans.
A talk with Denise J. Reed, researcher at the University of New Orleans.
How Art is Activating New York City’s Struggling Retail Sector
10.04.2021
A number of cultural venues have popped up to animate the empty storefronts.
A number of cultural venues have popped up to animate the empty storefronts.
An Immodest Proposal: From Pipelines to Lifelines
09.29.2021
Let’s turn our nationwide oil and gas delivery system into a network for water.
Let’s turn our nationwide oil and gas delivery system into a network for water.
When “Displacement” Isn’t a Dirty Word
09.28.2021
Helping to redefine through design that often loaded term.
Helping to redefine through design that often loaded term.
What If We Could Choose Our Own Architecture?
09.27.2021
An architecture student in India ponders his future in the profession.
An architecture student in India ponders his future in the profession.
David Waggonner on New Orleans and the Way Forward After Ida
09.23.2021
The architect on the issues that challenge his city—and almost every other U.S. city as well.
The architect on the issues that challenge his city—and almost every other U.S. city as well.
The Allure—and Importance—of Architectural Models
09.21.2021
A new book on master model builder, Theodore Conrad, underscores the medium’s crucial role in design.
A new book on master model builder, Theodore Conrad, underscores the medium’s crucial role in design.
A Campus Design/Build Project as an Act of Prayer
09.20.2021
The construction of a sukkah brought students of all faiths together.
The construction of a sukkah brought students of all faiths together.
Let’s Recognize California’s Informal Settlements as the Places They Are
09.15.2021
It’s time to make visible the long invisible.
It’s time to make visible the long invisible.
The Elemental Romance of Public Space and Water
09.14.2021
What is it about water that draws us so instinctually toward it?
What is it about water that draws us so instinctually toward it?
What is the Meaning of “Place” on the Post-Pandemic Campus?
09.13.2021
U.C. Berkeley wrestles with a new, online/in-person hybrid reality.
U.C. Berkeley wrestles with a new, online/in-person hybrid reality.
Rethinking the Role of Experimental Cities in Combating Climate Change
09.08.2021
Is it time for blue sky thinking to meet real world challenges?
Is it time for blue sky thinking to meet real world challenges?
Camilo José Vergara: “They Were Never the Same”
09.07.2021
The urban documentarian on a half-century of photographing the twin towers and Lower Manhattan.
The urban documentarian on a half-century of photographing the twin towers and Lower Manhattan.
My 15-Minute City: Pioneer Square, Seattle, Washington
09.02.2021
A bustling neighborhood built on the bones of a buried city.
A bustling neighborhood built on the bones of a buried city.
How Relevant is New Urbanism in an Age of Climate Change, Racial Inequity, and Housing Scarcity?
08.31.2021
A talk with Rick Cole, the new executive director of the CNU.
A talk with Rick Cole, the new executive director of the CNU.
Healing a Burning World One Tree at a Time
08.25.2021
How will we rebuild after the conflagration has spent its fury and fuel?
How will we rebuild after the conflagration has spent its fury and fuel?
CarbonPositive: If Architects Act Together Now, They Can Change the World
08.24.2021
The 3 steps to take to begin designing zero carbon buildings.
The 3 steps to take to begin designing zero carbon buildings.
Architecture: A History Lesson on Context, Craft, Gravity and Time
08.23.2021
Thoughts on some of the essentials.
Thoughts on some of the essentials.
It’s Hurricane Season: How Safe is New Orleans
08.17.2021
A talk with Mark Schleifstein, the environment and hurricane reporter for The Times-Picayune | New Orleans Advocate.
A talk with Mark Schleifstein, the environment and hurricane reporter for The Times-Picayune | New Orleans Advocate.
A Model of Collaborative Practice
08.12.2021
How one architecture firm refines the process of working with clients.
How one architecture firm refines the process of working with clients.
Why “Use Is the Best Form of Preservation”
08.10.2021
A talk with New History founder, Meghan Elliott.
A talk with New History founder, Meghan Elliott.
African Urbanism: Preserving Cultural Heritage in the Age of Megacities
08.04.2021
It’s time to stop erasing the continent’s rich architectural heritage.
It’s time to stop erasing the continent’s rich architectural heritage.
An Ode to the Planet’s Most Glorious Building Material: Wood
08.02.2021
Its characteristics and interaction with the natural world are astonishing to behold.
Its characteristics and interaction with the natural world are astonishing to behold.
“We Are the Context That Gives a Building Meaning”
07.27.2021
As a young architectural thinker considers the intersection of science, emotion, and design, some suggestions for expanding his scope.
As a young architectural thinker considers the intersection of science, emotion, and design, some suggestions for expanding his scope.
How a Small Set of Strategies Can Benefit the Greatest Number of Outcomes
07.26.2021
Adele Houghton on the co-benefits planning framework.
Adele Houghton on the co-benefits planning framework.
Lessons From Louisiana: Learning to Live With Water
07.21.2021
Some guiding principles for living in a world of sea level rise.
Some guiding principles for living in a world of sea level rise.
The Shape of Our Existing Buildings
07.20.2021
Extending the life and purpose of viable older buildings is critical.
Extending the life and purpose of viable older buildings is critical.
Juhani Pallasmaa: “Architecture is a Verb”
07.19.2021
The architect on designing with empathy, the duties of architecture, and the dangers of a profession too focused on technology and formalism.
The architect on designing with empathy, the duties of architecture, and the dangers of a profession too focused on technology and formalism.
Loving, Leaving and Returning Home to Detroit
07.14.2021
The changes are palpable, but its essential spirit remains.
The changes are palpable, but its essential spirit remains.
Building Back Better for a Fossil-Fuel Free Future
07.13.2021
New infrastructure that signals the inevitable shift to renewable energy.
New infrastructure that signals the inevitable shift to renewable energy.
Architecture Is a Deeply Emotional Experience
07.12.2021
The sooner architects recognize this, the better our buildings will be.
The sooner architects recognize this, the better our buildings will be.
Remembering Kristen Richards
07.08.2021
Writers and critics on the role she played in helping build and sustain design culture.
Writers and critics on the role she played in helping build and sustain design culture.
Postmodernism and Disco: Together, Forever
07.06.2021
Two movements exploded, and then suddenly their cultural magic dimmed.
Two movements exploded, and then suddenly their cultural magic dimmed.
We Must Begin Planning Now for an Inevitable Sea Level Rise
06.23.2021
A talk with John Englander, author of Moving to Higher Ground.
A talk with John Englander, author of Moving to Higher Ground.
At the Intersection of Critical Race Theory & Urban Planning
06.21.2021
It’s not just designers and planners who need to understand how racism pervades the built environment—it’s all of us.
It’s not just designers and planners who need to understand how racism pervades the built environment—it’s all of us.
Architect Billie Tsien on Her Appointment to the U.S. Fine Arts Commission
06.17.2021
The architect talks about her new role helping oversee federal buildings.
The architect talks about her new role helping oversee federal buildings.
We Already Have Viable Models for Quality Affordable Housing
06.15.2021
History offers up myriad ways to solve the problem.
History offers up myriad ways to solve the problem.
Can Architecture Firms Become Truly Carbon Neutral?
06.14.2021
A talk about the virtues and shortcomings of carbon offsets
A talk about the virtues and shortcomings of carbon offsets
How Biometric Software is Changing How We Understand Architecture—and Ourselves
06.08.2021
These powerful tools can help designers see the subliminal.
These powerful tools can help designers see the subliminal.
Adam Nathaniel Furman: “Buildings Always Embody the Values of Their Creators”
06.08.2021
A compelling talk with the London-based artist and designer.
A compelling talk with the London-based artist and designer.
Venice on Her 1,600th Birthday
06.07.2021
As global tourism returns, the city remains vexed by profound challenges for the future.
As global tourism returns, the city remains vexed by profound challenges for the future.
No, Los Angeles Is Not a City-State
06.03.2021
A recent Atlantic essay and new book gets LA all wrong (again).
A recent Atlantic essay and new book gets LA all wrong (again).
The American Car Dealership Is Doomed
06.01.2021
Auto retail businesses are becoming obsolete. Now what?
Auto retail businesses are becoming obsolete. Now what?
Is Apprenticeship the Way That Architectural Education Stays Relevant?
05.27.2021
The challenge of teaching in a rapidly changing world.
The challenge of teaching in a rapidly changing world.
A Visual History of New York Told Through Its Diagrams, Maps and Graphics
05.25.2021
Antonis Antoniou and Steven Heller talk about their new book, Decoding Manhattan.
Antonis Antoniou and Steven Heller talk about their new book, Decoding Manhattan.
My 15-Minute City: Valencia, Spain
05.23.2021
Here, centuries of culture are exuberantly expressed through architecture.
Here, centuries of culture are exuberantly expressed through architecture.
Help Wanted: Architecture Critics
05.18.2021
Who qualifies for this vital role in 2021?
Who qualifies for this vital role in 2021?
The Principles of Art Gensler
05.17.2021
Reflections on a longtime colleague and collaborator.
Reflections on a longtime colleague and collaborator.
A Less Atomized, More Communitarian Los Angeles? Low-Rise Winners Point the Way
05.16.2021
Christopher Hawthorne, L.A.’s Chief Design Officer, on new directions in density and housing.
Christopher Hawthorne, L.A.’s Chief Design Officer, on new directions in density and housing.
Finding a Design & Architecture Community During the Pandemic
05.13.2021
Out of chaos and fear came groups like Design Advocates and the DAP Collective.
Out of chaos and fear came groups like Design Advocates and the DAP Collective.
My 15-Minute City: The Marigny, New Orleans
05.10.2021
In a single block, you can travel back in time 100, 150, even 200 years.
In a single block, you can travel back in time 100, 150, even 200 years.
An Optimist’s Take on AI and the Future of Architecture
05.09.2021
A leading management consultant sees a new world—if architects can seize it.
A leading management consultant sees a new world—if architects can seize it.
Architecture and the Stain of Modern Day Slavery
05.04.2021
Many of the building materials used today are the products of forced labor.
Many of the building materials used today are the products of forced labor.
The High, Hidden Costs of Amazon
05.02.2021
Don’t be fooled by that smile printed on the boxes you’re receiving.
Don’t be fooled by that smile printed on the boxes you’re receiving.
The Biden Approach to Infrastructure: Creating a Culture of Maintenance
05.02.2021
The plan could shift our understanding of what keeping things in working order looks like.
The plan could shift our understanding of what keeping things in working order looks like.
New York City Promises Affordability Through Rezoning But Delivers Gentrification
04.26.2021
The Gaslighting of SoHo, NoHo, and Chinatown.
The Gaslighting of SoHo, NoHo, and Chinatown.
How the Practice of Architecture Survives Artificial Intelligence
04.26.2021
It’s time to rethink how we educate and train the new generations of designers.
It’s time to rethink how we educate and train the new generations of designers.
How Do We Solve America’s Housing Crisis?
04.25.2021
Transforming the suburbs might be a crucial first step.
Transforming the suburbs might be a crucial first step.
Nathaniel Rich on Remaking Nature and Living with Uncertainty
04.20.2021
A talk with the author about his new book, Second Nature.
A talk with the author about his new book, Second Nature.
Confessions of an Indian Architecture Student: It’s All Ingels’ Fault!
04.19.2021
Answering the question: “Why did you choose to study architecture?”
Answering the question: “Why did you choose to study architecture?”
A Manifesto for Claiborne Avenue: It’s Time to Tear the Highway Down
04.18.2021
Fifty years ago, it was the scene of an urban design crime.
Fifty years ago, it was the scene of an urban design crime.
My 15-Minute City: Upper West Side, New York City
04.13.2021
One walk around the neighborhood and he was smitten.
One walk around the neighborhood and he was smitten.
Five Women Architects Revitalize a Giant Public-Housing Project in Rome
04.12.2021
Corviale, aka The Big Snake, is in for a makeover.
Corviale, aka The Big Snake, is in for a makeover.
The Fake Marvels of HGTV
04.11.2021
Removing load bearing walls…no problem!
Removing load bearing walls…no problem!
Living on the Edge
04.06.2021
We’re attracted to those places where the manmade abuts the natural.
We’re attracted to those places where the manmade abuts the natural.
My 15-Minute City: Providencia; Santiago, Chile
04.05.2021
A walk through a city defined by mountains and a river.
A walk through a city defined by mountains and a river.
Alissa Walker: Echo Park and the Housing Crisis in Los Angeles
04.04.2021
What the recent mass eviction of the homeless means for the city.
What the recent mass eviction of the homeless means for the city.
New York City’s Cathedrals of Learning
03.31.2021
Why can’t we build them like we used to?
Why can’t we build them like we used to?
Architecture and the Age of Creative Disruption
03.30.2021
How does the profession navigate an era dominated by the internet and AI?
How does the profession navigate an era dominated by the internet and AI?
Richard Saul Wurman: “There’s a Louis Kahn Cult, and I’m a Member!”
03.29.2021
A lively talk with multi-hyphenate architect, designer, artist, and author.
A lively talk with multi-hyphenate architect, designer, artist, and author.
The Principles of Community CoDesign
03.25.2021
A blueprint for authentic public engagement.
A blueprint for authentic public engagement.
Marschitecture: The Glory and Folly of Space-Age Manifest Destiny
03.23.2021
Is colonizing the fourth planet really a good idea?
Is colonizing the fourth planet really a good idea?
The Precarious State of the Mom-and-Pop Store
03.22.2021
A beloved neighborhood staple edges ever closer to extinction.
A beloved neighborhood staple edges ever closer to extinction.
The Frick’s New Digs: A Historic Collection Meets Breuer’s Whitney
03.17.2021
It’s a bold, unprecedented experiment in art curation.
It’s a bold, unprecedented experiment in art curation.
My 15-Minute City: Biking in Buffalo
03.16.2021
A photo essay on the joys of getting purposefully lost.
A photo essay on the joys of getting purposefully lost.
Joan K. Davidson and the Fight for New York
03.15.2021
A talk with Roberta Brades Gratz, author of It’s a Helluva Town.
A talk with Roberta Brades Gratz, author of It’s a Helluva Town.
How Joe Biden and Kamala Harris Can Help Architects
03.10.2021
The list is long and will take more than 8 years, but the time to start is now.
The list is long and will take more than 8 years, but the time to start is now.
Architecture ≠ Truth: On the Idea of Buildings as Propaganda
03.09.2021
The long history of political power and architecture.
The long history of political power and architecture.
Kate Wagner on McMansion Hell, Criticism, and Her Love of Cycling
03.08.2021
A lively talk with an architectural internet sensation.
A lively talk with an architectural internet sensation.
Moshe Safdie: “The Unbuilt Work is the Place You Grow the Most”
03.03.2021
A conversation with the architect about the value of work that never makes it beyond the drawing board.
A conversation with the architect about the value of work that never makes it beyond the drawing board.
The Case for a Feeling Architecture
03.02.2021
This teenage architect-to-be wants the profession he joins to be dedicated to emotional experience.
This teenage architect-to-be wants the profession he joins to be dedicated to emotional experience.
What -isms Tell Us About Architecture’s Preoccupation with “Human” Design
03.01.2021
Does the now ubiquitous phrase still have meaning?
Does the now ubiquitous phrase still have meaning?
My 15-Minute City: Logan Square, Chicago
02.24.2021
Walking the neighborhood, while travelling back in time.
Walking the neighborhood, while travelling back in time.
The Scourge of the Boxy Skyscraper
02.23.2021
Why are we seeing so many new skyscrapers that resemble teetering stacks of skewed boxes?
Why are we seeing so many new skyscrapers that resemble teetering stacks of skewed boxes?
Harriet Pattison on the Creative Process of Louis Kahn and Making History
02.22.2021
A talk with the author of Our Days Are Like Full Years.
A talk with the author of Our Days Are Like Full Years.
The Next Generation of Architects Will Remake How We Make Things
02.17.2021
Out of disruption and necessity will come change.
Out of disruption and necessity will come change.
Post-Covid New York and the Rebirth of the Regional City
02.16.2021
There are important implications for downtowns across the country.
There are important implications for downtowns across the country.
Architecture and the Environmental Impact of Artificial Complexity
02.15.2021
Needless intricacies in building designs waste natural resources. Architects must do better.
Needless intricacies in building designs waste natural resources. Architects must do better.
When It Comes to Climate Change, Traditional Practice Is Broken
02.10.2021
A talk with Dan Heinfeld on what ails the construction industry.
A talk with Dan Heinfeld on what ails the construction industry.
Three Giant Leaps for Mankind, Three Grave Threats to Architecture
02.09.2021
What looked like progress now appears as something else starkly different.
What looked like progress now appears as something else starkly different.
The Delights—and Challenges—of Moynihan Train Hall
02.08.2021
The opening of the new station should be thought of as a crucial first step.
The opening of the new station should be thought of as a crucial first step.
Repairing the Urban Fabric Ruined by Highways
02.03.2021
For decades, high-volume roadways have marred the downtowns of cities. It’s time for a “Big Rethink.”
For decades, high-volume roadways have marred the downtowns of cities. It’s time for a “Big Rethink.”
Letter From Greenwich: Desegregate CT Meets Its Match in America’s Wealthiest Town
02.02.2021
Where household income is a diversity issue.
Where household income is a diversity issue.
Elevated and Isolated: In Consideration of the Urban Skyway
02.01.2021
It’s time for these anti-urban relics to go.
It’s time for these anti-urban relics to go.
Envisioning a New Urban Future for Southern California
01.28.2021
It’s time for a complete shift in our approach to American cities.
It’s time for a complete shift in our approach to American cities.
Not Everything Is “Architecture”
01.26.2021
Engaging with politics doesn’t always require filtering it through obtuse design theory.
Engaging with politics doesn’t always require filtering it through obtuse design theory.
Endless “Sustainable” Growth is an Oxymoron
01.25.2021
Don’t fall for the Triple Bottom Lie!
Don’t fall for the Triple Bottom Lie!
Teaching the Subtle and Difficult Art of Adaptive Reuse
01.21.2021
The resistance to educating future architects on this important art must end.
The resistance to educating future architects on this important art must end.
Blair Kamin Ends His Run as Architecture Critic of the Chicago Tribune
01.19.2021
An exit interview with the Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist.
An exit interview with the Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist.
Classicism Has Been Shaken Off Its Foundation
01.18.2021
Modernism is crumbling beside it. Where does that leave architecture?
Modernism is crumbling beside it. Where does that leave architecture?
Assault on a Sacred Place
01.13.2021
The response to the Capitol attack demonstrates that even civic buildings can inhabit the realm of sacred architecture.
The response to the Capitol attack demonstrates that even civic buildings can inhabit the realm of sacred architecture.
How Do You Teach Kids About Urban Planning? Let Them Play.
01.12.2021
For K–5 students, understanding how cities are put together starts by making urban space a personal experience.
For K–5 students, understanding how cities are put together starts by making urban space a personal experience.
What Does the Storming of the Capitol Tell Us About Classical Architecture?
01.11.2021
The past associations with authoritarianism are clearly misplaced.
The past associations with authoritarianism are clearly misplaced.
Reaffirming the Essential Role of Drawing in Design
01.06.2021
A new book on how architects visualize and design asserts the critical importance of working by hand.
A new book on how architects visualize and design asserts the critical importance of working by hand.
Paige Rense, Architectural Digest, and the End of 20th Century Architecture
01.05.2021
Her passing marks the end of an era already passed.
Her passing marks the end of an era already passed.
Should Architects Continue to Design Airports in the Age of Climate Change?
01.04.2021
Reconciling climate challenges with the demand for new work.
Reconciling climate challenges with the demand for new work.
Why This Classical Architect Opposes Trump’s Executive Order
12.29.2020
It will backfire spectacularly and only reinforces the incorrect notion that classical architecture is authoritarian.
It will backfire spectacularly and only reinforces the incorrect notion that classical architecture is authoritarian.
Why the AIA Finally Decided to Alter Its Code of Ethics on Prison Design
12.28.2020
A talk with Raphael Sperry, who helped lead the effort.
A talk with Raphael Sperry, who helped lead the effort.
Justin Shubow’s Insane Push for a State Sanctioned Architectural Style
12.23.2020
Jeff Speck’s response to the recently signed executive order mandating traditional architecture for federal buildings.
Jeff Speck’s response to the recently signed executive order mandating traditional architecture for federal buildings.
Maquettes in Architecture: The Forgotten Joys of Model-Making
12.22.2020
It provides a primal joy that no screen can ever capture.
It provides a primal joy that no screen can ever capture.
Presenting Architecture as Progressive, but Practicing Through Exclusion
12.21.2020
The profession has a problem with diversity and inclusion.
The profession has a problem with diversity and inclusion.
Why Do We Keep Building Waiting Rooms?
12.16.2020
Architects and interior designers should replace these dreary spaces with mobile technology.
Architects and interior designers should replace these dreary spaces with mobile technology.
Mother Nature Knows Best
12.15.2020
What nature understands about color that designers don’t.
What nature understands about color that designers don’t.
Christopher Hawthorne on Low-Rise: Housing Ideas for Los Angeles
12.10.2020
The newest effort organized by the city’s chief design officer.
The newest effort organized by the city’s chief design officer.
Curb Your Enthusiasm: In Praise of Constraints
12.02.2020
The compelling challenge of adaptive reuse.
The compelling challenge of adaptive reuse.
My 15-Minute City: South End, Boston
11.30.2020
Discovering the hometown I never really knew before.
Discovering the hometown I never really knew before.
Water Towers: Iconic Infrastructure, Underutilized Opportunity
11.23.2020
Can these giants of suburban and rural areas do more for the public realm?
Can these giants of suburban and rural areas do more for the public realm?
Architecture Misses Charles Moore
11.18.2020
Everywhere the architect went, he exuded creative energy and joy.
Everywhere the architect went, he exuded creative energy and joy.
The Chicano Moratorium and the Making of Latino Urbanism
11.16.2020
How a seminal event in Los Angeles shaped the thinking of an urban designer.
How a seminal event in Los Angeles shaped the thinking of an urban designer.
Why the Design of a Firm’s Practice is Its Most Important Project
11.11.2020
Considerations for a Relational Basis of Design.
Considerations for a Relational Basis of Design.
The Boundless Banality of Beige: A Rant
11.05.2020
Architect and interior designer Gloria Jaroff is not neutral on neutrals.
Architect and interior designer Gloria Jaroff is not neutral on neutrals.
Household Dame: The Visionary Modernism of Eileen Gray
11.02.2020
A recent show highlights the career of a remarkable designer nearly lost to the mists of history.
A recent show highlights the career of a remarkable designer nearly lost to the mists of history.
The Nature of Design Firms From a Five-Decade Veteran
10.29.2020
Aphorisms on leadership and collaboration.
Aphorisms on leadership and collaboration.
The Death and Life of the Resilient City Movement
10.27.2020
Rising from the ashes: a new, more nimble organization that is applying lessons learned.
Rising from the ashes: a new, more nimble organization that is applying lessons learned.
Public Protests and the Urban Legacies of Colonialism and Military Dictatorship in Nigeria
10.25.2020
The recent anti-SARS protests underscored the utter lack of public open spaces.
The recent anti-SARS protests underscored the utter lack of public open spaces.
Considering Climate Migration
10.21.2020
A strategic narrative of immigration planning for the 21st century.
A strategic narrative of immigration planning for the 21st century.
Hallmark Urbanism and the Future of Small Town America
10.19.2020
Coastal migration due to climate change might well spur a repopulation of small towns and cities.
Coastal migration due to climate change might well spur a repopulation of small towns and cities.
Educating Architects in a Post-Pandemic World
10.14.2020
What opportunities does the “loss of the stable state” offer the future of education?
What opportunities does the “loss of the stable state” offer the future of education?
Frances Anderton on Leaving KCRW, DnA, and What Comes Next
10.12.2020
A talk with the voice of Los Angeles architecture and design.
A talk with the voice of Los Angeles architecture and design.
Does Architecture Have a “Fake News” Problem?
10.07.2020
The issue isn’t about what is presented, but what’s not.
The issue isn’t about what is presented, but what’s not.
Hidden Figures: The Historic Contributions of Black Architects
10.05.2020
Black Built explores the impact of the work of Black architects on communities of color.
Black Built explores the impact of the work of Black architects on communities of color.
Urban Design in a Time of “Anti-Space”
09.30.2020
The thoughtful city-making prescriptions of Steven Peterson and Barbara Littenberg.
The thoughtful city-making prescriptions of Steven Peterson and Barbara Littenberg.
Los Angeles’ Least Cool Councilmember Kills Its Coolest Street
09.28.2020
Introducing the “perennially out of touch” Paul Koretz.
Introducing the “perennially out of touch” Paul Koretz.
Do Buildings Really Shape Human Behavior?
09.25.2020
The debate continues…
The debate continues…
Reflecting on the African American Experience at the Harvard GSD
09.23.2020
A conversation with two students about “Notes on Credibility” and their time at the university.
A conversation with two students about “Notes on Credibility” and their time at the university.
How Buildings Shape Us
09.21.2020
A response to critics who doubt the power of architecture.
A response to critics who doubt the power of architecture.
The Golden Rules of Covid-19: How to Create Safe, Socially-Distanced Schools
09.15.2020
There are multiple design strategies to deploy.
There are multiple design strategies to deploy.
Why Don’t We Teach Chinese Architecture?
09.14.2020
The staggering quality of work spans centuries, with lessons for today’s designers.
The staggering quality of work spans centuries, with lessons for today’s designers.
Covid-19 Has Raised the Question: Why Do We Design Buildings?
09.02.2020
The value of meaning and purpose.
The value of meaning and purpose.
Why We’ll Need More Flexible Buildings in the Post-Covid Era
08.30.2020
An advocate for the Open Building approach.
An advocate for the Open Building approach.
Laurel Canyon: The Classic California Urban Ecosystem
08.27.2020
The power of people and place can often defy formal design and planning.
The power of people and place can often defy formal design and planning.
Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney on Confederate Monuments, Pseudo-History, and Racial Reconciliation
08.25.2020
A talk with the mayor about his decision to remove the statues, and what comes next.
A talk with the mayor about his decision to remove the statues, and what comes next.
Caltech-Trained Researcher Links Sunlight Exposure as Key to Combating Covid-19
08.24.2020
A new study underscores the importance of sunlight to fighting the pandemic.
A new study underscores the importance of sunlight to fighting the pandemic.
The Chernobyl Paradox: The Intense Connection Between Health and Living Structure
08.19.2020
A remarkable film, The Babushkas of Chernobyl, raises important questions about health and the power of place.
A remarkable film, The Babushkas of Chernobyl, raises important questions about health and the power of place.
Whack-a-Mole Urban Planning in Los Angeles Is Not Working
08.17.2020
Solving one problem adds troubles somewhere else. The region needs to think holistically.
Solving one problem adds troubles somewhere else. The region needs to think holistically.
Covid-19 and the Renewed Meaning of Public Space
08.13.2020
An early morning stroll in an Olmsted-designed park.
An early morning stroll in an Olmsted-designed park.
Designers and Planners Take Note: People’s Fondest Memories Rarely Involve Technology
08.11.2020
A crucial lesson with great implications for planning and engagement.
A crucial lesson with great implications for planning and engagement.
Boris Johnson’s Wake-Up Call to Housing Advocates in California
08.10.2020
His attempt to end local control of housing development echoes attempts in the Golden State.
His attempt to end local control of housing development echoes attempts in the Golden State.
Letter From Nigeria: Covid and the African City
08.06.2020
The pandemic and its aftermath highlight longstanding problems, but also present opportunity.
The pandemic and its aftermath highlight longstanding problems, but also present opportunity.
Changi Airport’s Jewel: For Every Traveler, a Garden
08.04.2020
It’s an astounding experience for both travelers and Singapore locals.
It’s an astounding experience for both travelers and Singapore locals.
When It Comes to Covid-19, Density Doesn’t Kill—Sprawl Does
08.03.2020
A new, landmark study challenges assumptions about urban design and pandemics.
A new, landmark study challenges assumptions about urban design and pandemics.
Modern Architects Stink at Lying. Luckily, That’s Fixable.
07.29.2020
Why learning to tell tall tales might help the profession.
Why learning to tell tall tales might help the profession.
Solving the Urban Riddle That is Los Angeles
07.29.2020
An excerpt from The Urban Mystique: Notes on California, Los Angeles and Beyond.
An excerpt from The Urban Mystique: Notes on California, Los Angeles and Beyond.
Edward Mazria With Some Good News About Combating Climate Change
07.27.2020
The founder of Architecture2030 on the need for a green energy grid and a Zero carbon code.
The founder of Architecture2030 on the need for a green energy grid and a Zero carbon code.
Is Architectural Licensing Necessary?
07.22.2020
In the efforts toward broader inclusion, reform is long overdue.
In the efforts toward broader inclusion, reform is long overdue.
Is Virtual Architecture Inherently Disingenuous?
07.21.2020
The blurred line between the real and the rendered.
The blurred line between the real and the rendered.
Dr. Strangelove’s Strange Environmental Lesson for Architects
07.20.2020
The scary pitfalls of rigid professionalism.
The scary pitfalls of rigid professionalism.
Former Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley on the International African American Museum
07.15.2020
The Dean of America’s Mayors talks about this seminal project, 20 years in the making.
The Dean of America’s Mayors talks about this seminal project, 20 years in the making.
The Education—and Miseducation—of an Urban Planner
07.14.2020
He spent the better part of his career reconciling his formal training with his lived experience as a Gay Chicano.
He spent the better part of his career reconciling his formal training with his lived experience as a Gay Chicano.
Executive Order on Constructing and Preserving Monuments to True and False American Heroes
07.10.2020
A presidential parody with a prediction.
A presidential parody with a prediction.
Status, Statues, and Statutes: The Issue With Monuments to Flawed Men
07.07.2020
Debates about the nature of memorials and monuments are a good thing—when a healthy civic society exists with a common understanding of history and democratic values.
Debates about the nature of memorials and monuments are a good thing—when a healthy civic society exists with a common understanding of history and democratic values.
The Underappreciated Legacy of James Marston Fitch
07.07.2020
A designer and critic who saw both the environmental and economic benefits of historic preservation.
A designer and critic who saw both the environmental and economic benefits of historic preservation.
Letter From Berkeley: Campus Planning in an Increasingly Virtual World
07.06.2020
How do we plan for communities in flux?
How do we plan for communities in flux?
Empathy in Design: Measuring How Faces Make Places
07.01.2020
Science tells us we’re attracted to buildings that are connected to our bodies.
Science tells us we’re attracted to buildings that are connected to our bodies.
A Tribute to the Great Milton Glaser
06.30.2020
In more or less, his own wise words.
In more or less, his own wise words.
Does COVID-19 Pose a Greater Threat to New Orleans Culture Than Hurricane Katrina?
06.24.2020
A talk with author Jed Horne about his recent article in Vanity Fair.
A talk with author Jed Horne about his recent article in Vanity Fair.
The Utter Folly of Certainty in Uncertain Times
06.22.2020
It’s hard to foretell the future of a rapidly changing world.
It’s hard to foretell the future of a rapidly changing world.
Bryan C. Lee on Design Justice and Architecture’s Role in Systemic Racism
06.18.2020
A talk with the New Orleans-based architect and political activist.
A talk with the New Orleans-based architect and political activist.
Toward a Green Folkhem: Climate Change as if Social Justice Matters
06.15.2020
An economic and political blueprint for a more just and sustainable future.
An economic and political blueprint for a more just and sustainable future.
Designer Nicolas-Patience Basabose on Contemporary African Architecture and Urbanism
06.11.2020
A talk with the curator of the debut edition of the Congo Biennale.
A talk with the curator of the debut edition of the Congo Biennale.
12 Ways to Reform Architectural Education
06.09.2020
An excerpt from a new book that reaffirms the importance of drawing.
An excerpt from a new book that reaffirms the importance of drawing.
Architecture and the Illusion of Control
06.04.2020
The only way to have meaning in a radically changing world is to help meet essential human needs.
The only way to have meaning in a radically changing world is to help meet essential human needs.
Paul Goldberger on Architecture, Cities, and New York’s Long Road Back
06.03.2020
A talk with the Pulitzer Prize winning critic and urbanist.
A talk with the Pulitzer Prize winning critic and urbanist.
The Flipping of Our Public and Private Worlds
06.01.2020
The implications for design are immense and still unknown.
The implications for design are immense and still unknown.
Perikles and the Parthenon Paradox
05.29.2020
An interactive architectural fiction.
An interactive architectural fiction.
Edgar Jerins: Photographing the Locked-Down City
05.28.2020
The eerie beauty of an empty New York City.
The eerie beauty of an empty New York City.
Untapped Opportunity: Don’t Just Repair Water Infrastructure, Reimagine It
05.27.2020
Climate change will demand that we act.
Climate change will demand that we act.
The Future of Being Social
05.26.2020
The human desire to mingle will not disappear, but we will adapt.
The human desire to mingle will not disappear, but we will adapt.
A Conversation With St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman: Reopening the City
05.20.2020
He talks about his city’s approach to reopening and recovery.
He talks about his city’s approach to reopening and recovery.
Climate Change and the Arrival of the Baseless House
05.19.2020
How rising seas and new FEMA regulations have impacted the American house.
How rising seas and new FEMA regulations have impacted the American house.
Ernesto Pujol on the Opportunity Presented to Us During a Time of Collective Confinement
05.12.2020
“We need to hold on to this moment of clarity.”
“We need to hold on to this moment of clarity.”
Ernesto Pujol Looks Inward, Again
05.11.2020
The performance artist and self-described “urban monk” on what this time of solitude and reflection can provide us.
The performance artist and self-described “urban monk” on what this time of solitude and reflection can provide us.
How Might the COVID-19 Change Architecture and Urban Design?
05.07.2020
Researcher Ashraf Salama on possible outcomes in a post-coronavirus world.
Researcher Ashraf Salama on possible outcomes in a post-coronavirus world.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve: Burning Man “Changed Me Forever”
05.06.2020
She talks about the city-making lessons learned from the annual gathering in the desert.
She talks about the city-making lessons learned from the annual gathering in the desert.
While Defining “Beauty” is a Dead End, Studying Its Properties Definitely is Not
05.04.2020
Looking for the universal attributes that elicit aesthetic pleasure.
Looking for the universal attributes that elicit aesthetic pleasure.
Alone, Together: What It Means Now to Inhabit The Lonely City
04.30.2020
Revisiting Olivia Laing’s ode to urban isolation in a time of social distancing.
Revisiting Olivia Laing’s ode to urban isolation in a time of social distancing.
Mr. Menking and His Little Paper
04.28.2020
A tribute to the co-founder of The Architect’s Newspaper.
A tribute to the co-founder of The Architect’s Newspaper.
Did Latino Immigrants Save America’s Cities?
04.25.2020
A.K. Sandoval-Strausz chronicles a quiet, persistent urban revival in Barrio America.
A.K. Sandoval-Strausz chronicles a quiet, persistent urban revival in Barrio America.
This is Our Chance to Rethink Safe Streets and Public Spaces
04.23.2020
The coronavirus has created an opportunity to improve the pedestrian experience in our cities.
The coronavirus has created an opportunity to improve the pedestrian experience in our cities.
Architecture Does Not Lead: It Follows
04.20.2020
Cultural forces shape us; thereafter, we shape our buildings.
Cultural forces shape us; thereafter, we shape our buildings.
A Mayor Far-Too-Familiar With Crisis Management: Christine Hunschofsky
04.19.2020
A talk with the mayor of Parkland, Florida.
A talk with the mayor of Parkland, Florida.
The Reality of Design Fiction: How Storytelling Can Save the World
04.16.2020
Why extraordinary times require extraordinary thinking.
Why extraordinary times require extraordinary thinking.
During a Lockdown, What is “Essential?”
04.14.2020
Notes from the retail front in New York City.
Notes from the retail front in New York City.
Conducting City Government on Zoom: Mayor Manny Cid
04.12.2020
A conversation with the mayor of Miami Lakes, Florida.
A conversation with the mayor of Miami Lakes, Florida.
A Carbon-Neutral Energy Plan for the United Kingdom: Wave Power
04.09.2020
The means of achieving this goal is hydrokinetic energy.
The means of achieving this goal is hydrokinetic energy.
In Praise of Cemeteries
04.07.2020
In the age of social distancing, their charms are attracting a new audience.
In the age of social distancing, their charms are attracting a new audience.
Governing in the Time of COVID-19: A Conversation With Salisbury Mayor Jacob Day
04.05.2020
People “expect that the city will keep running, but they’re looking to me to console and reassure.”
People “expect that the city will keep running, but they’re looking to me to console and reassure.”
How Peter Paul Rubens Predicted Our Current Crisis
03.31.2020
Near the end of his life, the Baroque master painted an allegory that has resonance four centuries later.
Near the end of his life, the Baroque master painted an allegory that has resonance four centuries later.
How Architects and Designers Can Respond to COVID-19
03.31.2020
What are the opportunities and needs in your community, and how could your skill sets and connections be of benefit?
What are the opportunities and needs in your community, and how could your skill sets and connections be of benefit?
Michael Murphy on the Singular Voice of Michael Sorkin
03.30.2020
The executive director of MASS Design Group offers a tribute to an architectural sage.
The executive director of MASS Design Group offers a tribute to an architectural sage.
The Unique Pain of Architects: Letting Go
03.18.2020
The buildings we design have their own lives (and deaths), whether we like it or not.
The buildings we design have their own lives (and deaths), whether we like it or not.
On Tea and Density in Old Delhi
03.11.2020
How a street-corner vendor symbolizes the incredible, contradictory aspects of a centuries-old place where the concept of urban planning is all but impossible.
How a street-corner vendor symbolizes the incredible, contradictory aspects of a centuries-old place where the concept of urban planning is all but impossible.
How Mayors and Design Leaders View the Coming Decade
03.08.2020
The results of a new survey by the Mayors’ Institute on City Design.
The results of a new survey by the Mayors’ Institute on City Design.
Can Architecture Solve Our Crises?
03.01.2020
It might be helpful to define its capabilities and its limits first.
It might be helpful to define its capabilities and its limits first.
Thomas Jefferson: The Musical
02.26.2020
A play featuring Sally Hemings, Adolf Loos, Albert Speer, Walter Gropius and Frank Lloyd Wright.
A play featuring Sally Hemings, Adolf Loos, Albert Speer, Walter Gropius and Frank Lloyd Wright.
The Edge of Knowing: A Journey of the Americas
02.25.2020
Photographer Magda Biernat and writer Ian Webster on connecting to “something unfamiliar” and making the trip south to north.
Photographer Magda Biernat and writer Ian Webster on connecting to “something unfamiliar” and making the trip south to north.
If Plan A is to Mitigate Climate Change, What’s Plan B?
02.23.2020
It’s time for planners to begin replacing the R-word of the moment, resilience, with a now not-so-unthinkable one: retreat.
It’s time for planners to begin replacing the R-word of the moment, resilience, with a now not-so-unthinkable one: retreat.
The Urban Planning Lessons of Istanbul: A Photo Essay
02.12.2020
It’s a vital, diverse and extraordinarily pleasing city.
It’s a vital, diverse and extraordinarily pleasing city.
We Shape Buildings, But Do Buildings Really Shape Us?
04.13.2017
It’s an article of faith for most architects and designers, but the scientific evidence for this belief is sadly lacking.
It’s an article of faith for most architects and designers, but the scientific evidence for this belief is sadly lacking.
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