Neglected gem

While in Washington DC last week for the AIA National Convention I visited the M.L. King Public Library. This is one of Mies van der Rohe's last buildings and it was plagued with ill-advised "value engineering" from the outset. Because of it's poor condition there is a debate regarding demolishing the building and replacing it with a new structure. Mies' buildings are indeed difficult to maintain in pristine form, but clearly if it was restored properly this structure could take it's rightful place among DC's architectural treasures. Krueck + Sexton's masterful restorations of Crown Hall and 860-880 Lakeshore Drive show the potential beauty of this neglected gem.

AIA National Convention

Next week marks the 2012 AIA National Convention in Washington, D.C., during which those architects elevated to the College of Fellows this year will be honored in an investiture ceremony at the Washington National Cathedral. I am thrilled and honored to be one of these professionals.  The impressive neogothic cathedral seems an especially fitting locale to celebrate the power of architecture in the community, and I look forward to celebrating the occasion at this historic landmark with friends and family.

Amphibian leaps into the adventure

I am proud to announce my pro-bono participation in the renovation of Amphibian Stage Productions’ new home on South Main Street in Fort Worth’s Near Southside neighborhood.  A former nightclub, the building will be transformed into Amphibian’s performance space and offices, including a flexible black box theater, an open lobby, dressing rooms, a green room, and a set construction shop. 

The new space will allow this adventurous theatre company, now in its 13^th season, to expand their staffing and programming, and as their supporter I look forward to seeing the company continue to grow by leaps and bounds.