The Insider Archive
The Insider: The New Center for Architecture in Philadelphia
Innovation Matters, Volume 1, Issue 2 - October 24, 2007
As unique as the Philadelphia Region's culture, history, innovation and people, Philadelphia's architecture is a distinct symmetry of historic, colonial-style buildings and modern, towering skyscrapers. Philadelphia's architectural façade is a rare blend of distinguished landscaping unique to a select few cities in America.
To showcase Philadelphia's diverse architecture, the American Institute of Architects - Philadelphia Chapter (AIA Philadelphia) recently announced its proposal for the Creation of the Center of Architecture in Philadelphia. The proposed Center will serve as a design gateway to the City of Philadelphia and region, which will include the latest in design technologies.
"The Center for Architecture will celebrate the design and building achievements of this region. It will educate and engage a collaborative community of professionals and it will offer the public a convenient venue to engage each other about the future of their communities and the city," said Executive Director of the AIA Philadelphia John Claypool, AIA, AICP.
Through the Center, AIA Philadelphia and its partners can establish a major public presence for the region's design and community development industry. The Center for Architecture will be a public space to celebrate, educate and showcase architecture, serving as an exhibition gallery, studio, museum, tourist destination and classroom.
Philadelphia's architectural landscape has not gone unnoticed. Travel and Leisure Magazine recently ranked Philadelphia the second best city in the nation for historical sites/monuments and seventh for architecture/notable buildings.
"At the core of the City's uniqueness is its architecture, which throughout history has reflected the cultural, political and social issues of the times," according to the proposal for the Center for Architecture. "From 'green' building, to themes championed by mass marketers such as Target© to the placement of casinos, to the evolution of Philadelphia's skyline, to the revitalization of neighborhoods, architecture and design carry a relevance that is as pervasive as it is powerful."
According to Claypool, the Center for Architecture will create a place to learn and debate the design and planning of our entire region. It will educate individuals that are interested in their physical environment and introduce visitors to the 300 year heritage of architecture in Center City Philadelphia.
"Today, design's potential to affect health and quality of life has never been more potent," stated the Center for Architecture's proposal. "The future of the Greater Philadelphia Region rests in how the convergence of economic, technological, and public policy forces will shape our built environment."
The Center's proposed location at 1218 Arch Street, Philadelphia, is anticipated to open in the Spring 2008. For information on the proposed Center, contact the AIA Philadelphia at www.aiaphiladelphia.org
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