Patricia Viel discusses ACPV Architects’ philosophy of building public spaces in which there is a culture of shared well-being. The international collective of architects relies on multiple viewpoints to design projects that capture the ethos of a place, with the goal of preserving a good way of life rather than building architecture that is extravagant or iconic. Viel describes projects such as 1221 Avenue of the Americas as a way to illustrate the firm’s approach to the built environment, and the way in which even seemingly small elements – such as a plaza bench – are part of an important broader picture.

Learning objectives:  

• Explain why ACPV Architects was able to bring a unique perspective to the 1221 Avenue of the Americas project.
• List the steps ACPV took to carefully design the 1221 Avenue of the Americas project.
• Describe the central philosophy of ACPV Architects and how their belief system manifests in their work.
• Discuss some of the suggestions Patricia Viel provides for creating harmonious design, including in terms of acoustics, peacefulness, and natural light.

Credits: 0.5 AIA LU/HSW

Speaker: Aaron Prinz