At Optima®, our “Women in Architecture” series celebrates the achievements of pioneering women whose creativity and vision have left an indelible mark on the built environment. One such remarkable figure is Frida Escobedo, a contemporary architect whose work seamlessly blends Mexico’s rich cultural heritage with modernist principles, creating spaces that are both innovative and deeply rooted in history.

A Rising Star from Mexico
Born in 1979 in Mexico City, Frida Escobedo is a trailblazer in architecture whose influence has reached beyond her home country to capture international attention. After completing her architectural education at the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City, she further honed her craft at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, where she expanded her understanding of the relationship between architecture, history, and community.

Escobedo established her own practice in 2006, and since then, her studio has grown into a platform for exploring the convergence of contemporary architecture and cultural identity. Based in Mexico City, the studio’s work spans a wide array of scales and typologies, from residential projects to public spaces, furniture design, and temporary installations. This diversity reflects Escobedo’s commitment to challenging conventional architectural boundaries and creating works that provoke thought while serving as functional spaces.

Defining Characteristics of Escobedo’s Work
Frida Escobedo’s designs are celebrated for their ability to reimagine traditional Mexican materials and architectural elements, transforming them into strikingly modern compositions. Her work often utilizes simple materials such as concrete, terrazzo, and brick in innovative ways, combining them with clever uses of light, shadow, and spatial rhythm. Escobedo’s practice is deeply rooted in a respect for local contexts and histories, while maintaining an acute awareness of contemporary global design sensibilities.

One of her recurring design strategies is the exploration of time and space, evident in her fascination with the passage of light throughout the day and across seasons. This sensitivity imbues her projects with a poetic quality, inviting users to connect with their surroundings on a deeper level. Escobedo also frequently incorporates latticework and geometric patterns into her structures, an homage to traditional Mexican design techniques that she updates for the modern era.

Notable Projects and Achievements
Among her many acclaimed projects, Frida Escobedo’s commission to design the 2018 Serpentine Pavilion in London stands as a career-defining achievement. As the youngest architect and the first solo woman from Mexico to take on this prestigious project, she created a striking temporary structure inspired by the Mexican celosia, a traditional lattice that filters light and air. The pavilion’s interplay of reflection, texture, and shadow paid tribute to Mexican architectural traditions while resonating with the minimalist aesthetics of global modernism. It garnered widespread praise and positioned Escobedo as one of the most innovative architects of her generation.

Other standout works include the Courtyard at La Tallera Siqueiros in Cuernavaca, where she reimagined a museum space to connect with its surrounding neighborhood, and the Hotel Boca Chica in Acapulco, a renovation that balanced the charm of 1950s retro style with modern sensibilities. Her residential projects, such as Casa Negra, showcase her ability to design intimate, functional spaces that also embody her signature modernist approach. Her most prestigious commission to date, the design of the Tang Wing for modern and contemporary art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, promises to be a stunning example of her use of the metaphor of weaving to establish balance and harmony across the disparate wings of the museum.

A Global Force for Change
In addition to her architectural practice, Escobedo is a prominent educator and lecturer, sharing her insights at renowned institutions such as Harvard, Columbia, and Rice University. Through her teaching, she continues to inspire the next generation of architects to explore the intersections of tradition and innovation, just as she has done throughout her career.

Escobedo’s numerous accolades include being named one of the “Architectural Record’s Design Vanguard” and receiving the prestigious Architectural League of New York’s Emerging Voices Award. Her impact on the field extends far beyond her own projects, as she continues to be a role model for women in architecture and a champion of thoughtful, inclusive design.

A Legacy of Timeless Design
Frida Escobedo’s work exemplifies Optima®’s own commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and meaningful, fusing timeless design principles with local inspiration. Her ability to bridge past and present, tradition and modernity, is a testament to her visionary approach and her deep understanding of architecture’s role in shaping communities and cultural identities.

As we celebrate Escobedo’s contributions to the field, we are reminded of the transformative power of architecture to connect people to their histories while opening up possibilities for the future. Frida Escobedo’s enduring legacy is not only in the structures she designs but in the ways she inspires others to think more deeply about the spaces we inhabit.

At Optima®, timeless design is the cornerstone of our communities, blending innovation, modernism, and natural harmony to create spaces that transcend fleeting trends. A crucial element of this design philosophy is the thoughtful use of color—an integral aspect that defines atmosphere, mood, and personality in both interiors and exteriors. Today, one color captivating architects and designers alike is beet, a rich, earthy hue that seamlessly combines bold modernity with a natural warmth, making it a perfect fit for the evolving landscape of contemporary design. Its versatility and bold presence make it a perfect choice for adding sophistication, energy, and personality to any architectural project. From chic interiors to standout facades, beet is proving itself as a color to watch in the world of contemporary design.

The Allure of Beet
Beet is a unique color that draws inspiration from nature. Its roots, quite literally, stem from the deep, luxurious shades found in beetroot. This organic connection lends it a sense of warmth and groundedness, while its richness adds depth and drama. The color feels luxurious without being overbearing, making it a favorite among designers seeking to create a balance between boldness and approachability.

In addition, beet fits seamlessly into the rising trend of biophilic design—a movement focused on incorporating natural elements into architecture and interiors. Its earthy tones bring a sense of calm and connection to nature, perfectly aligning with spaces designed to promote well-being.

Beet in Exterior Design
When used in exterior architecture, beet creates a striking visual impact. Its depth and saturation make it an excellent choice for facades, whether it’s a full application or an accent color paired with neutrals like beige, gray, or white. The hue can transform a building into a standout structure, particularly in urban settings where a pop of color helps distinguish modern designs.

Architects are using beet to highlight key features like entryways, window frames, or architectural details, creating a bold yet refined contrast against muted backdrops. It works beautifully with a variety of materials—be it concrete, wood, or steel—allowing designers to create textural and visual harmony.

In addition, beet pairs well with natural landscapes, enhancing greenery while adding a contemporary flair. It’s increasingly being incorporated into sustainable design projects, where its organic undertones complement the ethos of environmentally conscious architecture.

Bringing Beet Indoors
Inside, beet is becoming a favored choice for walls, furniture, and décor accents. As a wall color, it brings depth and warmth to living rooms, dining areas, and bedrooms, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. It also serves as a stunning backdrop for art and décor, allowing other elements to pop.

Beet is making its way into furnishings as well, from plush velvet sofas to minimalist dining chairs. The color’s richness brings an opulent feel to upholstery, while its versatility ensures it pairs well with metals, woods, and other finishes. In kitchens and bathrooms, beet-colored cabinetry or tiles add a modern yet timeless touch, offering a creative alternative to traditional neutral palettes.

For those hesitant to commit to bold wall colors or large pieces of furniture, beet can be incorporated through smaller accents. Throw pillows, rugs, and artwork in this trending hue add a subtle yet impactful touch to interiors.

Why Beet Resonates Now
The rising popularity of beet can be attributed to its ability to adapt to different styles, from modern to traditional. It can feel moody and dramatic in one setting, then warm and inviting in another, depending on how it’s used and paired with other design elements. This versatility allows beet to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Additionally, the color speaks to a desire for individuality in design. As people move away from overly neutral palettes, they’re seeking hues that make a statement while maintaining a sense of sophistication. Beet offers the perfect balance of boldness and restraint, making it a favorite among both designers and homeowners.

At Optima®, our communities embrace bold, innovative design elements that elevate the living experience. Colors like beet, which blend natural inspiration with contemporary flair, align perfectly with our commitment to thoughtful, modernist architecture. Whether through curated interior palettes or the integration of striking exterior accents, we celebrate the transformative power of color in shaping spaces.

In a world increasingly reliant on data to make decisions and tell stories, the way we present information has become crucial. Information visualization, the art and science of representing data visually, is deeply influenced by Modernism—a design movement that championed clarity, simplicity, and functionality. At Optima®, where we appreciate the aesthetic and philosophical principles of Modernism, it’s fascinating to see how these ideas extend beyond architecture and art, impacting the way information is organized and communicated in our daily lives.

In the September/October 2023 article in Intercom by Amanda Horton, “Modernism Prevails? Researching recent trends in information visualization,” we get a chance to take a deep dive into current applications of Modernist graphic design principles.

Modernism as a design movement emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the chaos and complexity of the modern world. With its core tenets of simplicity, functionality, and “form follows function,” Modernism quickly gained traction across various fields—architecture, graphic design, and even furniture making. This philosophy centered around a commitment to clear, straightforward forms and a rejection of unnecessary ornamentation. Today, these principles are not only evident in Optima®’s architecture and design but also in the growing field of information visualization.

Aesthetic Minimalism and Functionality
Modernist design principles emphasize clarity and efficiency, making information easy to understand at a glance. In the realm of data visualization, this translates into a preference for clean, uncluttered layouts, limited color palettes, and minimalist iconography. These elements make it easier for viewers to process information quickly, preventing them from getting bogged down by decorative elements or unnecessary details.

Take, for example, the ubiquitous bar and line charts, pie charts, and simple grids. These straightforward visual tools align with the Modernist aesthetic by prioritizing legibility and functionality. Just as Modernist architecture uses clean lines and geometric forms to avoid visual noise, these types of charts are designed to communicate the data without distraction. Instead of ornate and overly colorful designs, Modernist-inspired visualizations rely on clear labels, proportional spacing, and a balance between positive and negative space to convey meaning effectively.

The Grid: A Foundation of Modernist Structure
One of the most influential aspects of Modernist design is the grid. Used extensively by designers in the Modernist movement, grids provide a structured way to organize visual elements on a page or screen. The use of grids in information visualization is equally prevalent. Grids help to align data points and visual elements in a way that feels orderly, logical, and easy to navigate.

By structuring information on a grid, visualizations ensure consistency and symmetry, creating a flow that guides the viewer’s eye naturally across the page or screen. Whether in infographics, dashboards, or interactive visualizations, grids play a vital role in making data intuitive and accessible, embodying the Modernist belief in functionality and efficiency.

Typography and Color: Clarity in Communication
In keeping with Modernism’s commitment to clarity, typography and color in information visualization are chosen with great care. Sans-serif fonts, popularized by Modernist designers for their clean and simple forms, are often the go-to choice for data visualizations. Sans-serif fonts reduce visual clutter and allow the text to be read quickly, which is essential when communicating complex data.

Color, too, is applied thoughtfully. Modernist principles favor a restrained color palette—often just a few shades, chosen to differentiate data points without overwhelming the viewer. Colors are also selected based on their psychological impact and readability, with contrasting hues helping to highlight key data points. Instead of vibrant, jarring colors, Modernist-influenced visualizations use subdued, harmonious tones to create a cohesive look and feel.

The Influence of Swiss Style
Swiss Style, a subsect of Modernism that originated in Switzerland in the 1950s, has a particularly strong influence on information visualization. Known for its focus on readability, objectivity, and precision, Swiss Style places a heavy emphasis on grid alignment, asymmetrical layouts, and clear hierarchies. In information visualization, these attributes are invaluable, as they ensure that the viewer can quickly understand which pieces of data are most important.

Interactive dashboards, a staple in business intelligence and analytics, are a great example of Swiss-inspired design. These interfaces typically use grids to organize data into clear sections, leverage minimalistic typography, and employ a limited color scheme. Swiss Style’s commitment to objective and unbiased design aligns perfectly with the goal of visualizations to present data without inserting opinions or biases.

Modernism and Digital Innovation
Today, the principles of Modernism have evolved but continue to underpin digital design, particularly in information visualization. As we move further into the digital age, data visualizations have become interactive and dynamic, allowing users to explore data by filtering, zooming, and clicking through layers of information. Despite these technological advancements, Modernist design principles remain relevant. Interactive features are often incorporated in a way that maintains the integrity of the visualization, avoiding excessive embellishments that could detract from the data itself.

This fusion of Modernism with digital tools exemplifies how timeless principles can adapt to new media. Modernist ideas have not only endured but also thrived in the age of digital design, reminding us that simplicity and functionality are key to effective communication, no matter the medium.

Just as Optima®’s architectural philosophy celebrates clean lines, purposeful design, and thoughtful aesthetics, the Modernist approach in information visualization champions clarity, simplicity, and functionality. By embracing Modernism, data visualizations today serve as powerful tools that can effectively convey complex information in a way that is both visually appealing and easily digestible.

In a world overflowing with data, Modernism offers a guiding principle for designers seeking to communicate information transparently and efficiently. As we continue to explore new ways of understanding and visualizing data, Modernist principles remind us that sometimes, less truly is more. For our team at Optima®, these principles are not only reflected in their living spaces but also in the thoughtful design that permeates the information they interact with every day.

The Optima® blog series, “Women in Design,” highlights the careers and accomplishments of pioneering women who have made remarkable contributions to the fields of architecture and design. These visionaries challenge conventions, push the boundaries of creativity, and inspire future generations with their passion and dedication to shaping our built environment. Among these distinguished individuals is Llisa Demetrios, the chief curator of the Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity, dedicated to preserving, exploring, and expanding upon the legacy of her iconic grandparents Charles and Ray Eames — two of the most influential designers of the 20th century. In her role, Demetrios not only preserves their invaluable contributions to design but also advances the mission of making design accessible and meaningful to all, creating a space for current and future generations to learn from their approach to design thinking.

Growing up in a family so deeply entrenched in the world of design, Demetrios developed a strong connection to the Eameses’ ethos from an early age. Her mother, Lucia Eames, was also a prominent figure in the arts, and her family environment encouraged creativity and curiosity. This upbringing has given Demetrios a unique perspective on the legacy of her grandparents and the cultural significance of their work. She sees her role at the Eames Institute as a bridge between past and future, allowing her to bring the timeless principles of Eames design to contemporary audiences.

Under Demetrios’s guidance, the Eames Institute focuses on “infinite curiosity” as a guiding principle. This concept reflects the Eameses’ belief in continuous exploration, problem-solving, and curiosity about the world around them. Through the institute’s collections, exhibitions, and public programs, Demetrios helps bring to life the Eames philosophy that design is not just about aesthetics but about improving lives through thoughtful, functional, and accessible solutions. The institute houses an extensive archive of the Eameses’ work, including prototypes, furniture, films, and other artifacts that provide insight into their design process and philosophy.

Demetrios is committed to making these archives accessible, both to designers and the public, to inspire a new generation of creators. By examining the Eameses’ iterative processes, hands-on experimentation, and their focus on human-centered design, visitors to the Eames Institute can gain valuable insights into how design can address real-world problems. Demetrios emphasizes that her grandparents’ work was always about finding innovative solutions to challenges, a philosophy that continues to resonate in today’s design landscape.

Beyond preserving the legacy of her grandparents, Demetrios has a broader goal of fostering a deeper understanding of the role design plays in everyday life. Through her work, she encourages people to view design as an integral part of their environment and not merely as a luxury or an afterthought. She believes that by learning from the Eameses’ approach — rooted in simplicity, functionality, and empathy—contemporary designers can continue to create work that enriches lives and addresses practical needs.

In her curatorial role, Demetrios also champions the importance of sustainability, a value that was central to the Eameses’ work long before it became a global imperative. By showcasing how the Eameses utilized materials efficiently, minimized waste, and emphasized durability, she highlights the relevance of their design principles in addressing today’s environmental challenges.

Through her work at the Eames Institute, Llisa Demetrios not only honors her family’s contributions to design but also advances their enduring philosophy, demonstrating how timeless principles can evolve and inspire future generations. Her commitment to keeping the spirit of curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving alive makes her a pivotal figure in the world of modern design, ensuring that the Eames legacy continues to influence and inspire. To learn more about the Eames Institute, visit their website.

As we continue our “Women in Architecture” series, we are pleased to turn our attention to Lina Ghotmeh. In the realm of contemporary architecture, where historical context and cutting-edge innovation often collide, Lina Ghotmeh stands as a powerful figure. Her works, characterized by a profound respect for memory and the environment, have garnered international attention. As an advocate for sustainable design and a meticulous interpreter of historical significance, Ghotmeh brings a fresh perspective to global architectural discourse. In this post, we explore her career, design philosophy, and significant contributions to the field, aligned with Optima®’s ongoing celebration of women architects pushing boundaries.

Early Life and Education
Born in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1980, Lina Ghotmeh grew up in a city that had been devastated by civil war. Her early experiences in a place marked by destruction, memory, and rebuilding have profoundly influenced her architectural philosophy. Ghotmeh pursued her architectural studies at the École Spéciale d’Architecture in Paris, where she developed a sensitivity to history, context, and materiality. Her education provided her with the tools to bridge the gap between past and present, while always considering the environmental and cultural implications of design.

After completing her studies, Ghotmeh worked alongside Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel on the Louvre Abu Dhabi project, one of the world’s most prestigious museum buildings. This experience helped hone her skills in designing large-scale projects that blend traditional and contemporary influences.

Design Philosophy: “Archeology of the Future”
Lina Ghotmeh is known for her unique approach to architecture, which she describes as “Archeology of the Future.” This philosophy reflects her belief in creating structures that draw deeply from the layers of history, memory, and the environment. Her designs are not merely aesthetic; they tell stories of the past while being forward-looking, ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of every project.

Ghotmeh’s work is deeply rooted in the landscape and cultural history of the areas where her projects are located. She integrates natural forms, materials, and the history of a place into her designs, blending architecture with nature and human experience. It is in this way that she creates spaces that respect and enhance their surroundings, ensuring harmony between human activity and the environment.

In spite of her relatively young age, Ghotmeh has already made significant contributions to the world of design with a number of signature projects, including:

Stone Garden (Beirut, Lebanon). One of Lina Ghotmeh’s most recognized projects is Stone Garden, an iconic residential tower in her native Beirut. This building is a testament to her commitment to working with local context, as it was designed with both the city’s tumultuous history and environmental concerns in mind. Completed in 2020, the tower’s facade is made of raw concrete and is intentionally irregular, evoking the damage that Beirut has endured throughout decades of conflict. Yet, its design is also meant to symbolize hope and resilience, with its organic, plant-filled terraces representing new life amid destruction. Stone Garden exemplifies Ghotmeh’s skill at weaving together the scars of the past with a sustainable and optimistic vision for the future.

Estonian National Museum (Tartu, Estonia). The Estonian National Museum, completed in 2016, is another of Ghotmeh’s landmark projects, created in collaboration with DGT Architects, the firm she co-founded in 2006. This building was constructed on a former Soviet airfield, and its design reflects Estonia’s complex history of occupation and independence. The museum’s elongated form seems to rise from the landscape itself, a poignant reminder of the country’s turbulent past. Inside, it functions as a cultural center that celebrates Estonian heritage, perfectly encapsulating Ghotmeh’s belief in the integration of memory and place.

Réalimenter Masséna (Paris, France). Another notable project is Réalimenter Masséna, an innovative, energy-efficient wood building located in Paris, which houses a sustainable, organic urban farm. This project perfectly illustrates Ghotmeh’s belief in sustainable, self-sufficient architectural solutions that contribute to the urban fabric without straining environmental resources.

Awards and Recognition
Ghotmeh has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Tamayouz Award for Female Architects in 2020 and a nomination for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. She continues to influence the field through her thought-provoking lectures and writings on sustainable architecture and the role of memory in design. Her work has been exhibited globally, from the Venice Biennale to the Serpentine Pavillion.

Lina Ghotmeh’s architecture offers a profound response to the pressing issues of our time, such as sustainability, memory, and cultural identity. Her remarkable career serves as an inspiration to a new generation of architects who aim to merge beauty, sustainability, and historical reverence in their work. As we look to the future of architecture, her legacy will continue to shape the ways in which we design for both people and the planet.

Optima Lakeview®, completed in 2022, received a 2024 Green GOOD DESIGN Sustainability Award.

The award is part of a new “green” edition of GOOD DESIGN™, originally founded in Chicago in 1950 by Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Edgar Kaufmann, Jr. to promote and foster a greater public understanding and acceptance for Modern Design. For the Green GOOD DESIGN Sustainability Awards, the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies and The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design have joined forces on two continents to present this innovative and challenging new public program.

The Green GOOD DESIGN Sustainability Awards aim to bring a parallel public appreciation and awareness for new design thinking led by a current generation of visionary architects, designers, urban planners, corporations, governments, individuals, and private and public institutions for a design and a public environment based upon:

• Ideals of energy conservation
• Reduction of toxic waste and greenhouse gasses
• Diminishing dependence on fossil fuels
• A sensitivity for waste, pollution, and the depletion of the world’s energy resources

This new design approach centers on the idea of repairing our worldwide environments with sustainability and for total ecological restoration.

With the launch of Green GOOD DESIGN Sustainability Awards comes the intent to change consumer habits, restructure manufacturing output, influence the design of cities and public spaces, and raise a consciousness about our limited global resources and the disappearance of clean air, clean earth, and clean water.

At Optima®, we’re proud to be recognized for the exemplary design of Optima Lakeview®: the stunning, light-filled atrium, endless views of the neighborhood and Lake Michigan from the spectacular rooftop sky deck, and abundant amenity spaces. The inspired use of floor-to-ceiling glass, concrete and natural stone. A world-class collection of contemporary art and furniture in public spaces both inside and outside. Across the entire spectrum of design, our unique sense of form and function has allowed us to imagine the extraordinary in the heart of this storied neighborhood. And while our passion for sustainable, thoughtful design has always been part of the Optima culture, we have pushed our own boundaries to ensure that Optima Lakeview® offers a new, elevated sense of home for our residents and neighbors.

At Optima®, we believe in recognizing and celebrating the groundbreaking contributions of women in architecture who have reshaped the built environment through innovation, sustainability, and a deep respect for nature. In our ongoing series highlighting the achievements of influential women in the field, we turn our attention to Carme Pigem, a visionary architect whose work aligns with our own commitment to thoughtful design that harmonizes with its surroundings.

As one of the most influential women in contemporary architecture, Carme Pigem has carved out an indelible place in the history of modern design. Known for her minimalistic yet deeply contextual approach to architecture, Pigem’s thoughtful approach to blending structures with nature reflects many of the values we uphold at Optima®: sustainability, respect for the environment, and the creation of spaces that elevate the human experience.  And as co-founder of RCR Arquitectes, Pigem has proven that architecture can be a thoughtful, collaborative endeavor that marries local tradition with bold innovation.

Early Life and Education
Born in 1962 in Olot, Spain, Carme Pigem grew up surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Catalonia. This early connection to nature would later deeply inform her architectural vision. After completing her studies at the Escola Tècnica Superior d’Arquitectura del Vallès (ETSAV) in 1987, Pigem co-founded RCR Arquitectes with Rafael Aranda and Ramon Vilalta, both of whom she had studied with. The three would go on to develop a close working partnership that has spanned decades, leading to numerous acclaimed projects and prestigious awards.

The RCR Arquitectes Vision
Founded in 1988, RCR Arquitectes is not just an architectural firm but a philosophy. The trio’s approach to architecture is rooted in the integration of structure with nature, often allowing the landscape itself to dictate design choices. Based in their hometown of Olot, RCR Arquitectes works with the unique qualities of the volcanic region to create spaces that are inextricably linked to their surroundings. The firm’s projects are known for their seamless blending of materials such as glass, metal, and stone, with an acute awareness of light and space.

Key Projects
One of Pigem’s most renowned projects is the Les Cols Restaurant Pavilion in Olot. This minimalist pavilion, with its use of transparent glass and steel, creates an ethereal space that seemingly dissolves into the surrounding gardens. The project earned widespread recognition for its innovative use of materials and its emphasis on transparency and connection with nature.

Another significant project is the Bell-Lloc Winery in Palamós, Spain. The winery’s subterranean design responds to the landscape’s rolling hills and uses local materials to blend into its environment. The building creates a dialogue between architecture and viticulture, with its long, narrow passageways mirroring the rows of vines outside.

But perhaps the most emblematic project of Pigem’s work is the Soulages Museum in Rodez, France. Dedicated to the French artist Pierre Soulages, the museum is designed to reflect the artist’s use of black and light. Pigem and her team opted for steel as the primary material, referencing the industrial landscape while giving the museum a sense of weight and permanence. The result is a space that honors the work of the artist while integrating into the broader landscape of the city.

Pritzker Prize and Recognition
In 2017, Carme Pigem, along with her RCR Arquitectes partners, was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize—often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of Architecture.” This was a historic moment, not just for Pigem personally, but for women in architecture. It marked the first time a trio had won the award, and Pigem became one of the few women to receive architecture’s highest honor.

The Pritzker jury commended RCR Arquitectes for their ability to create spaces that are both local and universal, writing, “Their works are powerful and emotional, connecting people to place and space through buildings that are intensely experiential.”

Carme Pigem’s Legacy
As a woman in architecture, Carme Pigem has consistently defied the odds in a male-dominated industry. Her architectural language is one of empathy, where each project is meticulously crafted to reflect the culture, history, and landscape of its site. Pigem’s career is a testament to the idea that architecture should be a collaborative and inclusive practice that pushes boundaries while respecting the natural and built environments.

Her ability to foster deep connections between architecture and nature continues to influence a new generation of architects who are more aware of their ecological and social responsibilities. Pigem’s focus on sustainability and harmony with the landscape aligns perfectly with Optima’s architectural philosophy, where design meets nature to create spaces that enhance the well-being of their inhabitants.

Carme Pigem’s work embodies the spirit of modern architecture: innovative, sustainable, and deeply rooted in the environment. Through her collaborations at RCR Arquitectes, she has demonstrated that architecture can be both a personal and collective journey—one that invites nature into the conversation and emphasizes thoughtful, human-centered design. As we continue to celebrate women in architecture, Carme Pigem stands out as a pioneer who has reshaped the way we think about our built environment and its relationship with the world around us.

At Optima®, we celebrate the powerful connection between architecture, culture, and community. One of the most significant yet often overlooked chapters in architectural history is Black Modernist architecture, a movement that not only pushed the boundaries of design but also encapsulated the socio-political aspirations and cultural identity of African American communities. The National Trust for Historic Preservation highlights the importance of preserving this vital heritage through its initiative launched in 2023, Conserving Black Modernism.

The Emergence of Black Modernism
Black Modernist architecture emerged in the mid-20th century, a time of profound social change and transformation in America. As African American architects began to gain recognition, they embraced Modernism as a means to express the ideals of progress, equality, and a new cultural identity. Their works were characterized by bold geometric forms, innovative use of materials, and an emphasis on functionality.

Prominent Black architects, such as Paul Williams, Norma Merrick Sklarek, and J. Max Bond Jr., made significant contributions to this movement. They not only designed buildings that stood out for their aesthetic appeal but also created spaces that served as cultural and community centers, reflecting the aspirations and resilience of Black communities.

The Challenges of Preservation
Despite its importance, Black Modernist architecture faces numerous challenges when it comes to preservation. Many of these structures are at risk due to neglect, urban development pressures, and a lack of awareness about their historical significance. Additionally, the systemic barriers that African American architects faced in the past have contributed to the erasure of their contributions from mainstream architectural narratives.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is addressing these challenges by raising awareness about the importance of conserving Black Modernist architecture. By highlighting the stories and achievements of Black architects, the Trust aims to foster a greater appreciation for these structures and encourage efforts to protect them for future generations.

Key 2024 Preservation Projects
In 2024, the National Trust’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund announced its support for several projects that aim to conserve and celebrate Black Modernist architecture:

Ira Aldridge Theater | Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts at Howard University | Washington, D.C.
Designed by Hilyard Robinson and Paul R. Williams, the Ira Aldridge Theater was completed in 1961. Funding will support a historic structures report and an interpretation plan.

Masjid Mohammad, Nations Mosque | Washington, D.C.
This mosque, completed in 1960 by architect David R. Byrd, represents one of the oldest Black Muslim congregations in the U.S. Funding will support studies for a LEED-certified expansion and capital improvements.

Morehouse College Halls | Atlanta, GA
The halls designed by Leon Allain in the early 1970s will undergo building assessments and historic structures reports, ensuring their preservation and continued use.

Kenneth G. Neigh Dormitory Complex | West Point, MS
Designed by J. Max Bond Jr. in 1970, this complex will be studied for adaptive reuse to provide transitional housing, addressing its current state of deterioration.

Robert T. Coles Home and Studio | Buffalo, NY
This building, designed by Robert T. Coles in 1961, will receive funding for a historic structures report and a reuse feasibility study.

John F. Kennedy Community Center | Buffalo, NY
Also designed by Coles, this community center will benefit from a comprehensive preservation plan to support its role as a hub for community activities.

Universal Life Insurance Company Building | Memphis, TN
Designed by McKissack and McKissack in 1949, this building will undergo cultural interpretation and repairs, highlighting its historical significance.

Azurest South, Amaza Lee Meredith Home and Studio | Petersburg, VA
Amaza Lee Meredith’s home and studio will see the implementation of a conservation management plan, preserving its unique International Style architecture.

Preserving Black Modernist architecture is not just about saving buildings; it’s about honoring the legacy of African American architects who broke barriers and enriched our cultural landscape. It’s about recognizing the role that architecture plays in shaping cultural identity and the importance of inclusive narratives in the preservation movement.

At Optima®, we believe it is essential to continue advocating for the recognition and preservation of Black Modernist architecture. These structures not only tell the story of a movement but also serve as a testament to the creativity, resilience, and vision of the architects who dared to dream of a better world. Let us work together to preserve these cultural treasures and ensure that they remain a source of inspiration and pride for generations to come.