Center for Architecture

Even without Tom Wolfe railing against the proletariat-loving purveyors of International Style, today’s event at the Center for Architecture presented an up close battle of ideas over what to do with Edward Durrell Stone’s iconic structure. Sign-waving, brown-bag protestors paced the sidewalk, while in a sleek, downstairs auditorium, architect Brad Cloepfil gave the first public presentation of the much-debated 2 Columbus Circle design. Rick Bell restated the position of the A.I.A., that the case should not be brought before the Landmarks Commission. And despite a recent appeal, time is running out for Landmarks West, as construction is slated to begin in the next few weeks. “We’re taking something that has been dead, and bringing it back to life,” said Mr. Cloephil who criticized Stone’s design as representing a “moment in style,” but not a pivotal work. Elsewhere inside the Center for Architecture, placards described the building in its current state as "a private, idiosyncratic folly." Outside, the point was raised to preserve the façade, while bringing in light from the back of the building. However, when The Real Estate raised this possibility, Mr. Cloepfil was nonplussed, stating that he could not think of anything that would “show less faith in contemporary architecture.” Of course, you've gotta have faith. -Matthew Grace and Michael Calderone  read more »

Tom Wolfe’s preservationist friends are taking their “Save 2 Columbus Circle” campaign to the street this Thursday. A lunchtime demonstration is planned to take place outside the Center for Architecture, at 536 LaGuardia Place. The Center for Architecture/AIA New York Chapter will be gathering for a private reception in support of the new Museum of Arts and Design. The protest begins at 11:45, and those who attend get fed. So, even if you have no qualms with changes to the building’s modernist facade, the brown bag lunch should be more than enough reason to drop by. And maybe the man in the white suit will make an appearance. -Michael Calderone  read more »