Classicism Now

This discussion will delve into the ongoing debate between classical and experimental architecture, exploring the role of aesthetics in civic structures. The panelists will examine how public input and innovative design can shape our built environment, fostering legibility, dignity, and lasting quality in federal buildings. This conversation aims to bridge traditional preferences with contemporary approaches, sparking new ideas for the future of public architecture.

Speakers: Justin Shubow (President National Civic Art Society), Kate Wagner (Architecture Critic at The Nation), Edwin Heathcote (Architecture Critic at Financial Times), moderated by Carlo Ratti (Curator of 19th International Architecture Exhibition).

This event stems from a recent exchange between the speakers in the Financial Times that began with an op-ed by Ratti titled “Don’t Make Federal Architecture Beautiful Again.” Shubow responded with a letter to the editor, “Jefferson Is the President’s American Architecture Idol,” which in turn prompted a letter by architect Norman Foster, “Aesthetic Excellence in Architecture Is Not a Question of Styles.”

**Note: This event is the replacement for a previously scheduled event, “Making Federal Buildings Beautiful Again: A Debate,” with Carlo Ratti and Justin Shubow, that did not take place. A portion of the above description is taken from the event description. The panel discussion takes place at 5pm CET and can be watched via Zoom or Carlo Ratti Associati's Instagram account.