Nancy, Author at Optima - Page 18 of 39

Women in Architecture: Raili Peitilä

Posted on February 7, 2024 by Nancy

As part of our ongoing “Women in Architecture” series, we’re spotlighting Raili Peitilä, a Finnish architect whose collaborative work has left a significant imprint on modern architecture. Her contributions reflect a deep engagement with nature and an innovative approach to design. Learn more about her remarkable achievements and life below:

The Life of Raili Peitilä

Born August 15, 1926, in Finland, Raili Peitilä’s early life was steeped in the rich cultural and natural landscape of her homeland. The early exposure to the wonders of nature profoundly influenced her architectural vision later in life. Her journey into architecture began at the Helsinki University of Technology, an institution known for its rigorous approach to technical and creative education.

It was there that she refined her architectural skills and also cultivated a keen understanding of the interplay between built forms and their environmental contexts. During her university years, Raili met Reima Pietilä, a fellow student who would become her life partner and professional collaborator. Their meeting sparked a partnership that would greatly influence Finnish architecture and beyond.

Kavela Church, Tampere, Finland — Kaleva Church, Tampere, Finland, 1964, Credit to Ali Eminov flickr

Notable Works and Achievements

Raili Peitilä, along with her husband, believed in creating architecture that was deeply integrated with its natural surroundings. This philosophy was evident in one of their most recent major projects, the Dipoli Student Union Building at the Helsinki University of Technology. With its organic form and innovative use of space, the building reflected their commitment to harmonizing architecture with nature.

Their work at the Kaleva Church and the Tempere’s Main Library Metso further established them as pioneers in the field. These buildings showcased their ability to blend modernist ideals with organic forms, earning them both national and international acclaim.

Main Library in Tampere — Tampere’s Main Library Metso, 1986, Credit to Wikimedia Commons

One of Peitilä’s most notable projects, the Finnish Embassy in India in 2018, is a testament to her imaginative and forward-thinking design approach. Similarly, the Tampere Main Library, another significant project, was celebrated for its interactive and user-friendly design, reflecting Peitilä’s deep understanding of public space and communal needs.

Finnish Embassy in New Delhi, India, 1985, Credit to Aalto University Archive

The legacy of Raili Peitilä in architecture is multifaceted. Her work not only contributed significantly to the architectural landscape but also inspired future generations of architects to think more creatively about the relationship between buildings and their natural environment. Through her projects, Peitilä has shown us that architecture can transcend the creation of mere structures to become integrated works of art that live in harmony with their surroundings.

Exhibitions You Can’t Miss in 2024

Posted on February 5, 2024 by Nancy

Scottsdale and Chicago are both cities teeming with culture, arts and experiences, and with the new year comes an abundance of new exhibitions to explore. If you’re looking for a few ways to expand your world close to home, here are some of the best upcoming exhibitions in and around Scottsdale and Chicago:

Of the Earth, Morton Arboretum, Chicago

Replacing Morton Arboretum’s 2023 sculptural exhibition, Human + Nature, Of the Earth welcomes back five large-scale sculptures to the beloved outdoor museum. Created by Polish-American artist Olga Ziemska, each sculpture, created exclusively for the arboretum, is made of reclaimed wood and tree branches. Each of the five sculptures are thoughtful placed across the arboretum’s 1,700 acres, encouraging visitors to explore new areas they might not have been to before. Access to the exhibition is included with tickets to the arboretum and it runs through spring 2025.

Native America: In Translation, The Museum of Contemporary Photography, Chicago

The Museum of Contemporary Photography’s latest exhibition, Native America: In Translation, welcomes stories of culture, heritage and what the legacy of colonialism looks like in our country. The nine Native American artists whose work appears in the exhibitions raise questions about identity, land rights and explore the abundant history of photography characterizing Native populations. The exhibition runs through May 12, 2024 and, like all exhibitions at The Museum of Contemporary Photography, is free to attend.

Oleaje [Groundswell], Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Scottsdale

Step into the mind of Carolina Aranibar-Fernández at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art with her latest exhibition, Oleaje [Groundswell]. The vibrant and eye-opening showcase reveals the hidden stories behind global mining and trade. Carolina, a San Francisco-based artist with Bolivian roots, brings her personal touch to large-scale installations that are both visually appealing and thought-provoking. Using everything from sequins to beads, her work weaves a powerful narrative about our planet and its resources. The exhibition runs from February 10, 2024 – August 4, 2024 and tickets can be found here.

American Icons, Taliesin West, Scottsdale

Running through June 3, 2024 at Taliesin West, American Icons celebrates the renowned work of Georgia O’Keefe and Frank Lloyd Wright, icons in American art and architecture. The photography exhibition features 20 exclusive images of the two luminaries, exploring their lives, careers and how each affected American Modernism through art, design and culture. Tony Vaccaro, the photographer whose images are used in the exhibition, captured each icon separately during his career, but looking at the photographs, visitors will be able to find symmetry both visually and through their histories. Tickets for the exhibition can be found here.

Health Benefits of Massage Therapy

Posted on January 31, 2024 by Nancy

In the world of wellness and self-care, massage therapy stands out as a practice steeped in rich history and cultural significance. At Optima®, we recognize the profound health benefits of massage therapy, which aligns completely with our commitment to holistic well-being. From the focus on energy flow and balance in ancient China to luxurious Roman baths, massage has always been part of human wellness rituals.

Like yoga and saunas, one of the most celebrated benefits of massage is its remarkable ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. The therapy soothes the nervous system, leading to a decrease in cortisol levels and an increase in feelings of calmness. But its advantages extend far beyond just relaxation. Massage therapy is also known for its effectiveness in pain relief, particularly in managing chronic conditions like lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches. By improving blood flow and easing muscle tension, massage offers a natural and therapeutic approach to pain management.

Massage therapy is known to boost circulation, ensuring that more oxygen and nutrients reach the muscles. This enhanced circulation aids in recovery and contributes to overall health. Regular massage sessions can even fortify the immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system, responsible for expelling waste from body tissues.

Mental health also significantly benefits from massage therapy. It can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, promoting a sense of well-being and relaxation. By reducing stress and promoting physical relaxation, massage therapy can improve sleep quality, a crucial factor for overall health and well-being.

At Optima, our philosophy is that true wellness encompasses both the mind and body. Integrating massage therapy into our wellness offerings provides our residents with an opportunity to enjoy the timeless benefits of this ancient practice, ensuring they can relax, rejuvenate, and live their best lives.

Greenspace Spotlight: Optima Verdana®

Posted on January 29, 2024January 29, 2024 by Nancy

With its name inspired by the word “verdure,” meaning lush, there’s no question that we’re embracing greenery and green spaces more than ever in our latest development, Optima Verdana®. The development not only welcomes our signature vertical landscaping system to the Midwest while complementing the surrounding neighborhood with private terraces with lush landscaping, a reaching sky deck, and a nature-bridging courtyard.

Within the comfort of their homes, some Optima Verdana residents have access to private landscaped terraces. Each terrace, rich with lush and ornate greenery, delivers personal greenspaces that complement the modern architecture surrounding them. Just a short stroll from each home, residents have access to Optima Verdana’s Skydeck and Garden Lounge, which provides even more access to sunlight, fresh foliage, and a seasonal herb garden beloved by the community.

Found in the heart of the community, Optima Verdana’s 1,500-square-foot open-air courtyard provides another amazing space for residents looking to immerse themselves in nature. The extensive greenspace features 7-foot-high garden walls, an abundance of verdant trees and many tranquil seating options for those looking to spend extra time outdoors.

1,500 square foot open air courtyard at Optima Verdana — Optima Verdana’s 1,500-square-foot open-air courtyard

The highlight of Optima Verdana is the introduction of our signature vertical landscaping system to the Midwest. While Optima Lakeview® uses vertical landscaping in its indoor atrium, vertical landscaping is used throughout the entire building at Optima Verdna. Besides providing aesthetic values, the green feature is a key element of our sustainability initiatives and plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy environment. The system, with self-contained irrigation and drainage, provides a haven for local urban wildlife, promotes evaporative cooling, re-oxygenates the air, reduces dust and smog levels, reduces ambient noise and detains stormwater.

Like the green spaces in our other developments, Optima Verdana’s supply of greenery allows our residents to enjoy a wealth of benefits. Green areas in urban environments help provide ample space to stretch and engage around vegetation, improving cardiovascular health and relieving stress.

At Optima®, we are dedicated to harmonizing form and function by bringing the outdoors into our communities. The lush private terraces, tranquil courtyard and signature vertical landscaping at Optima Verdana welcome that outdoor experience and allow us to fashion a sanctuary of our own.

A Guide to Scottsdale Western Week

Posted on January 24, 2024January 26, 2024 by Nancy

Scottsdale is a city rooted in its Western origins. From the iconic public art displays like Windows to the West and Implosion to various architectural treasures inspired by the desertscape surrounding them, you can find a celebration of Western spirit around nearly every corner. Every year, Scottsdale honors this heritage during the city’s beloved Western Week, an event dedicated to ensuring the Western legacy remains strong. Here is our guide to Scottsdale Western Week 2024.

Returning to Old Town Scottsdale from January 27 – February 4, 2024, the free-to-attend event is back with more events and activities than ever before. The celebratory week starts with the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market on January 27, followed by a kick-off party planned to transport visitors back to the Wild West with events like the Rodeo Museum’s roping demonstrations, blacksmith demonstrations, live music and various pop-up shops.

Throughout the week, visitors have access to exclusive events like the Gold Palette Artwalk on February 1, an exhibition that spans the Scottsdale Art District featuring artwork from various galleries. The Hashknife Pony Express on February 2 is another favorite of the festival. Visitors are invited to gather at Scottsdale’s Museum of the West to witness the world’s oldest officially sanctioned Pony Express. On February 3, the Scottsdale Civic Center hosts the Arizona Indian Festival, which showcases the rich Indigenous American culture tied to the area with traditional arts and crafts, foods and engaging experiences.

Parada-del-Sol-Historic-Parade-2009 — Riders in the 2009 Parada Del Sol Historic Parade, Photo credit to Alan English CPA flickr

Closing the electrifying week, more than 125 acts will walk the streets of Old Town in the Parada Del Sol Historic Parade on February 3. In its 70th year, the thrilling parade features vibrant floats, marching bands and stagecoaches representing cultures from Mexico, Native American, Arabian and, of course, Western. Following the parade, visitors of all ages are encouraged to stay in the Old Town District for the Trail’s End Festival, a western-themed block party.

For residents at Optima Kierland® Apartments, Optima Sonoran Village and Optima Camelview Village, Scottsdale Western Week makes the perfect opportunity to get out and explore the community while learning more about the city’s roots. To learn more about Western Week and its many events and activities, head to Old Town Scottsdale’s website here.

How Diversity in Architectural Styles Lends Vibrancy to Communities

Posted on January 22, 2024January 26, 2024 by Nancy

At Optima®, we’re passionate about design and architecture, not just as forms of artistic expression but as vital elements that contribute to the vibrancy of communities. Across the places where we build, our “forever modern” design philosophy enhances our neighborhoods with unique character, playing a critical role in enhancing the architectural mix, creating a rich tapestry for people to enjoy today…and tomorrow.

A Melting Pot of Architectural Styles

Architecture is like a visual language, telling the story of a place through its buildings. From the ornate flourishes of Art Deco to the sleek lines of Modernism, each style reflects the cultural, historical, and technological zeitgeist of its era. When these different styles coexist in a community, they create a dynamic and visually engaging environment.

Take, for instance, a walk through a city where every corner reveals a different architectural era. The Gothic revival church with its pointed arches and elaborate stonework stands in contrast to the glass and steel of a contemporary skyscraper. This juxtaposition isn’t just about the old meeting the new; it’s a dialogue between different times and ideas, a landscape that tells the story of change and continuity.

View-of-Optima-Signature®-from-Chicago-River — View of Optima Signature® from Chicago River

Optima’s “Forever Modern” Contribution

At Optima, our approach is grounded in the belief that modernism isn’t a static style but an evolving language that responds to current trends, technologies, and lifestyles. By integrating the latest materials and design innovations, our buildings add a layer of contemporary elegance to the architectural conversation within communities.

Our designs, characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and a harmonious blend with the surrounding environment, offer a fresh perspective that complements the existing architectural diversity. For example, the sleek silhouette of an Optima building can highlight the ornate details of a neighboring Victorian building in downtown Wilmette, making both styles stand out.

Creating Dynamic and Interesting Communities

The beauty of diverse architectural styles lies in their ability to create vibrant, interesting, and dynamic communities. This diversity is partly visual, but it also reflects the varied experiences, histories, and values of the people who inhabit these spaces. It fosters a sense of place, where residents and visitors can feel a connection to both the past and the future.

Our commitment to modern design at Optima doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s part of a broader architectural narrative, where different styles coalesce to create a community that’s dynamic, visually engaging, and rich with stories. As architects and designers, we relish the opportunity to contribute to these narratives, because it’s in these spaces that communities truly come alive, pulsating with energy and beauty.

Shuffleboard 101: A Blend of History, Fun, and Community

Posted on January 18, 2024January 26, 2024 by Nancy

Welcome to Shuffleboard 101! At Optima®, we’re not just about sleek designs and stunning architecture; we’re about creating vibrant communities where fun and engagement are part of daily life. And what better way to bring people together than a timeless game of shuffleboard? Let’s slide into the history of this classic game and explore how it plays a significant role in our community.

A Stroll Down Memory Lane
Shuffleboard, a game with roots dating back to 15th-century England, has come a long way. Originating from a game called “shove-groat,” where players slid coins across a table, shuffleboard has evolved into a beloved pastime worldwide. It’s fascinating to think that this game, which started with people pushing coins in taverns, now brings laughter and friendly competition to our modern community spaces at Optima.

Modern shuffleboard is a blend of skill, strategy, and, most important, fun. The goal is simple: players use cues to slide weighted discs down a narrow court, aiming to score points by landing the discs within designated areas. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned player, shuffleboard is accessible to all, making it a perfect game for community interaction.

Cruise ship shuffleboard (vintage photo) — Cruise ship shuffleboard Credit: WLouis E. “”Slim”” Gordon Special Collection Photo

Shuffleboard at Optima®: More Than Just a Game
In social spaces at Optima Kierland Apartments® and Optima Signature®, shuffleboard is a community catalyst, allowing residents to gather for friendly matches, fostering connections, and relaxation. It’s not just about scoring points; it’s about the smiles shared, the conversations sparked, and the sense of belonging that comes from engaging in a shared activity.

Incorporating amenities like shuffleboard into our living spaces aligns perfectly with our philosophy. We believe in crafting environments that encourage interaction, relaxation, and a sense of community. The courts are a testament to this belief, offering a space where residents can unwind and connect in a laid-back, enjoyable setting.

Join the Fun!
Whether you’re an aficionado or new to the game, we invite you to join in the fun at Optima. Discover the joys of this timeless game, meet your neighbors, and experience firsthand how simple pleasures can enrich our lives and strengthen our community. At Optima, it’s not just about where you live, but how you live—and shuffleboard is a part of that vibrant, engaging lifestyle.

So, grab your pucks, step up to the court, and let the good times slide!

Women in Architecture: Itsuko Hasegawa

Posted on January 16, 2024January 16, 2024 by Nancy

As part of our ongoing “Women in Architecture” series, we’re celebrating the incredible work of Itsuko Hasegawa, a trailblazer in the worlds of design and architecture. Hasegawa’s unique blend of traditional Japanese elements and modern design techniques has established her as a leading figure in the architectural realm, inspiring us with her innovative and thoughtful creations.

The Life of Itsuko Hasegawa
Born in 1941 in Yaizu, Japan, Itsuko Hasegawa was raised in a post-war era brimming with opportunities for growth and innovation. Hasegawa’s early life was marked by an exposure to education, a privilege that paved the way for her future achievements. After graduating from Kanto Gakuin University in 1964, she further honed her skills at the Tokyo Institute of Technology. It was during this period that Hasegawa’s architectural philosophy began to take shape, influenced by both modern advancements and the rich tapestry of traditional Japanese design.

A pivotal moment in Hasegawa’s early career was her time working with the renowned architect Kiyonori Kikutake, a leading figure in the Metabolist Movement. This experience significantly impacted her design approach, blending modernist techniques with an inherent appreciation for natural and cultural harmony.

Itsuko Hasegawa sofa — A sofa designed by Itsuko Hasegawa held in the Musée National d’Art Moderne in Paris, Photo from Wikipedia

Notable Works and Achievements
In 1979, Hasegawa established her own firm, Itsuko Hasegawa Atelier, marking the beginning of a series of groundbreaking projects that would define her career. Her work is characterized by a deep sensitivity to the environment and a unique understanding of space.

One of Hasegawa’s most acclaimed projects is the Shonandai Cultural Centre in Fujisawa.

Built in 1987, this cultural hub is a testament to her ability to create dynamic and fluid spaces that resonate with the community. The build features a mixture of various forms, including two domed structures and a scattering of hut-like forms that resemble flowers blooming and defy traditional architectural arrangement.

Another significant work is the Sumida Culture Factory in Tokyo, a project that underscores her commitment to functional and engaging public spaces. Built in 1994, the complex acts as another example of Hasegawa’s creation of a landscape. The factory features various interconnected design elements, including a grand dome and two defining catenary roofs.

Her contribution to architecture has been recognized with several awards, including the Architectural Institute of Japan’s Design Prize for the Brizan Hall, the Japan Cultural Design Award, the Japan Art Academy Award and the prestigious Royal Academy of Art’s Architecture Prize.

Hasegawa’s influence extends beyond her architectural projects. Her roles as a professor and lecturer in various international institutions have allowed her to impact the next generation of architects, advocating for greater diversity and creativity in the field.

Itsuko Hasegawa’s journey is not just about building structures; it’s about building dreams and inspiring change. Hasegawa’s legacy is a powerful reminder of how architecture can transcend mere buildings to become a medium for cultural expression and community engagement.

Chicago Architectural Biennial 2023: This Is a Rehearsal

Posted on October 23, 2023 by Nancy

As Chicago’s architectural landscape continually evolves, the fifth edition of the Chicago Architecture Biennial offers a fresh, reflective look into the heart of urban transformation. Beginning September 21, 2023, CB5 invites locals and visitors alike to participate in a series of immersive events and discussions. Here’s what you can expect from the 2023 Biennial This Is a Rehearsal.

Diving into this year’s theme, This Is a Rehearsal, serves as an exciting reminder that cities, much like the instants of life, are in endless evolution. Through this lens, CB5 emphasizes the importance of continuous dialogue, trial, and reinvention in urban designs. CB5 explores how countries around the world share political, environmental and economic issues and how each may address them differently through art, architecture and public involvement. It’s not just about the buildings but the stories they tell and the communities they foster.

Floating Museum, a Chicago-based arts collective, is the lead artistic team behind CB5, pushing boundaries and charting new territories in urban discourse. Their integrative approach promises an engaging mix of conversations, challenging conventions, and setting the stage for tomorrow’s architectural landscape. CB5 expands on Floating Museums’ existing beliefs and work, all exploring the relationships between the built environment and ourselves.

With over 80 contributors from Chicago and the global stage, the Biennial is a testament to diverse, inventive thought. The contributors, ranging from artists and architects to educators and thinkers, breathe life into various corners of the city, from Lakeview’s artful streets to North Lawndale’s historic boulevards. It’s more than just an exhibition; it’s a city-wide celebration of innovation.

Local contributors include Grow Greater Englewood, Urban Growers Collective, Project Onward, the Poetry Foundation and the Southside Community Art Center. Contributors from around the United States and the globe include Storefront for Art and Architecture, the Buell Center at Columbia University, SpaceShift and Stoss Landscape Urbanism.

Marking its commencement on September 21st, the Biennial unfolds various installations across the city. A special opening celebration is slated for November 1st, showcasing extensive exhibitions at renowned locations like the Chicago Cultural Center and the Graham Foundation. The programs invite viewers to engage in conversations around food and material production, water reclamation and discussions around construction and power in relation to land use and rights. Whether you’re a seasoned architect, a design enthusiast, or just a curious mind, there’s something for everyone.

Women In Architecture: Rivera Marín

Posted on October 16, 2023March 4, 2024 by Nancy

As part of our ongoing “Women In Architecture” series, we’re sharing background on a trailblazing architect and educator who rooted her work in humanitarianism, Ruth Rivera Martín. From her radical contributions to Mexican architecture to the inspiration she instilled in her students, Martín’s impact is unquestionable. Learn more about her life and accomplishments below:

The Life of Ruth Rivera Marín

Rivera Marín was born in Mexico City on June 18, 1927. Born into an environment of artistic flair, Ruth Rivera Marín hailed from a lineage steeped in creativity and brilliance. The daughter of iconic muralist Diego Rivera and writer Guadalupe Marín, she lived in a world where artistry was the language of expression. This rich background not only influenced her early life but also provided a foundation that would shape her approach to architecture.

Eager to carve her own niche, Rivera Marín pursued her architectural education at the College of Engineering and Architecture at the National Polytechnic Institute. With determination, she emerged as its first female student, breaking conventional norms. Under the mentorship of architectural luminaries like Mario Pani and Hannes Meyer, Rivera Marín honed her skills, adopting a unique vision that merged traditional elements with modern passions.

Museo de Arte Moderno, Chapultapec Park, Mexico City. Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Carlos A. Cazares Salcido and Ruth Rivera Martín, 1964. Photo by Lars Plougmann, Flickr Creative Commons

Notable Works and Achievements

Rivera Marín’s illustrious career is a blend of iconic designs and transformative contributions to the field of architecture. In a world predominantly led by men, she rose as the first female professor of architecture at the National Polytechnic Institute, paving the way for future generations of women in the field. Beyond this, her pivotal role in founding the National College of Architects speaks volumes of her dedication to elevating architectural standards and practices in Mexico.

Anahuacalli Museum, Ruth Rivera Marín, Juan O’Gorman and Diego Rivera, 1964. Photo by Ted McGrath, Flickr Creative Commons

Her design elements reflected a deep understanding of urban development. She was instrumental in crafting various housing projects in Mexico City, where her creations transcended traditional designs. Her most recognized work was the Anahuacalli Museum in Coyaoacán, which she built with her father and fellow architect Juan O’Gorman. Each of her designs resonated with Mexican modernity, finding a perfect balance of aesthetic allure and functional utility.

Arguably her most profound impact lies in her role as an educator. Rivera Marín’s tenure as a professor has touched the lives of countless students, instilling in them a love for architecture and design. Especially for female students, she was more than just a professor; she was a beacon of inspiration, showing them that with passion and perseverance, they too could redefine the boundaries in the architectural landscape.

Ruth Rivera Marín’s contributions are deeply etched in Mexican architectural history. Her edifices stand as landmarks of her visionary prowess. However, beyond brick and mortar, her true legacy is in the minds she influenced and the paths she paved for future architects. She remains an enduring symbol of dedication, talent, and groundbreaking achievements, inspiring countless individuals to dream big and break barriers.

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Author: Nancy