This compilation of articles covers various significant developments in the world of architecture and design. It begins by exploring a unique New York City initiative that merges physical activity with an appreciation for urban planning and architectural marvels. This is followed by a look at a celebrated jewelry brand's ongoing commitment to the performing arts, particularly dance, staged within historically and architecturally rich environments. The narrative then shifts to an established figure in the design industry who is venturing into new curatorial territory with an intriguing exhibition. Subsequently, the focus moves to a vibrant new community space in upstate New York, ingeniously combining retail, creative workshops, and design showcases. The collection concludes with an international architectural triumph, detailing the recognition of a landmark building in Ethiopia for its meticulous restoration, and a trend report on the renewed interest in a classic Dutch ceramic art form.
Architectural Exploration Through Movement and Artistic Expression
New York City now offers an innovative way to experience its urban landscape through "GRID City" running tours. This free monthly series, conceived by Miler Running founder Ben Morrow and residential designer Paul Morimoto, marries the shared passions of architecture and running. Led by a diverse group of design professionals, each tour delves into a specific architectural theme, such as building facades or green buildings. These guided runs span four to six miles, incorporating strategic stops for observing notable structures, and culminate with a community gathering for coffee and pastries. The program, which has seen increasing popularity, provides an accessible platform for both seasoned design enthusiasts and curious newcomers to engage with the city's built environment, fostering a unique blend of physical activity and intellectual discovery.
The "GRID City" running tours offer a refreshing perspective on New York's architectural heritage. Participants, guided by experts like Ryan Donaghy of SHoP Architects, learn about the intricacies of urban design while enjoying an invigorating run. For instance, January's tour on building facades highlighted fascinating details, such as the early structural issues of the Woolworth Building. These tours are designed to appeal to a wide audience, from those who appreciate New York's diverse architecture to avid runners seeking a new challenge. The initiative not only promotes physical well-being but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for the city's design narratives, making architectural education an engaging and dynamic experience accessible to the public regardless of their prior design knowledge.
Emerging Design Voices and Heritage Preservation
In the realm of design, Michael McGraw, a seasoned publicist, is stepping into the spotlight as a curator with his new gallery, Dernier Cri, located in his Upper East Side townhouse. McGraw, known for shaping the narratives of prominent interior designers, is now realizing his long-held ambition to showcase emerging talents. His inaugural exhibition, "Night Shift," features 13 designers and artists who explore the expressive power of an all-black palette through works that highlight form, texture, and light. This venture provides a dynamic platform for discovery, with plans for regular rotations of exhibits, including ecologically themed shows and outdoor sculpture installations, aiming to foster a continuous dialogue within the design community and introduce fresh perspectives to a broad audience.
Meanwhile, in upstate New York, Sara Sharpe and Harry Benson have transformed a 1920s building in Andes into the Andes Garage, a multifaceted hub that extends beyond a traditional design showroom. This move from Brooklyn allowed them the space to integrate Estro, their interior design and staging studio, with an impressive collection of vintage European furniture and lighting. Beyond the showroom, the Andes Garage is a vibrant community center, housing a local architectural firm, a grocery, an artist's residency, and a communal woodworking shop. This initiative reflects a growing trend of designers seeking to create integrated spaces that not only showcase their work but also foster local creative economies and community engagement. Furthermore, the Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, a significant modernist landmark, recently received the World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize for its extensive decade-long restoration. This recognition underscores the global effort to preserve architectural heritage, ensuring that buildings like Africa Hall, with their profound historical and cultural significance, continue to inspire future generations. The restoration project, meticulously undertaken by Architectus, addressed everything from structural integrity to artistic details, breathing new life into a symbol of African modernism.