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Refined Desert Living: Inside the Apartment Residences at Optima McDowell Mountain®

Posted on July 16, 2025September 29, 2025 by Nancy

In the heart of North Scottsdale, where rugged mountains meet expansive desert skies, Optima McDowell Mountain® redefines what it means to live well. Thoughtfully designed and rooted in the principles of Modernism, the apartment residences at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain® offer sanctuary.

Every element of these rental residences is guided by the Optima® vision: beautiful, functional, and deeply attuned to the natural environment. Here, design serves a higher purpose—elevating daily life, inviting connection, and capturing the singular serenity of desert living.

Modern Architecture Meets Timeless Comfort
From the moment you enter an apartment residence, you’re greeted by expansive views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, which draw the outside in and flood each home with natural light. Clean lines and open layouts create a sense of calm and flow, while generous private terraces extend living spaces into the open air—perfect for sunrise coffee or sunset contemplation.

Spacious primary bedroom at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain® with expansive views

Thoughtful Interiors Designed for Living Well
Each apartment is a masterclass in materials and modern elegance. Luxurious plank flooring, high ceilings, and modern lighting set a sophisticated tone, while contemporary cabinetry, quartz countertops, and full-tile backsplashes bring polish and function to the kitchens. Kitchen islands with pendant lighting make the space both a showpiece and a gathering place—ideal for quiet nights in or entertaining guests. In every room, the finishes are intentional, the layouts intuitive. Walk-in closets, full-size washers and dryers, and smart home-ready wiring offer the practical comforts of a well-appointed home—without ever sacrificing style.

Smart Design, Seamless Living
Beyond aesthetics, these apartments are designed to support a truly modern lifestyle. Each unit is equipped with energy-efficient appliances, including stainless steel refrigerators, dishwashers, and ranges, blending performance with sleek design. USB outlets, central climate control, and ample storage make every detail of life a little easier and more enjoyable.

In select units, double vanities, separate soaking tubs, and upgraded appliance packages take everyday luxury to the next level—providing elevated options for those seeking even more refinement in their surroundings.

A Home That Reflects the Landscape
Optima McDowell Mountain® is deeply informed by its desert setting, and that connection to place is woven into every residence. From the natural color palettes to the expansive views of the McDowell Mountains, the design philosophy honors the land—bringing harmony between home and environment.

Life, Elevated
More than just a beautiful place to live, the apartments at 7220 Optima McDowell Mountain offer access to a lifestyle shaped by wellness, convenience, and community. With immediate access to the tower’s exceptional amenities—including a rooftop Olympic-length pool, indoor/outdoor fitness center, and tranquil lounge areas—residents experience the best of both private retreat and social connection.

At Optima McDowell Mountain®, apartment living becomes something extraordinary. It’s where architecture uplifts, where design serves the soul, and where home feels like a natural extension of your best life.

Interested in renting? To explore available floor plans or schedule a private tour, visit our site here.

Elevated Living in the Desert: Amenities That Define Optima McDowell Mountain®

Posted on July 14, 2025July 18, 2025 by Nancy

Set against the striking backdrop of the McDowell Mountains in North Scottsdale, Optima McDowell Mountain® offers lifestyle defined by innovation, wellness, and design. While the architectural elegance of the community draws the eye, it’s the curated amenities that truly elevate everyday living into an experience of resort-inspired comfort.

At Optima®, amenities are integral to the way we think about community, connection, and quality of life. And at Optima McDowell Mountain®, that philosophy comes alive in thoughtful spaces that blend function, beauty, and a deep respect for the desert surroundings.

A Rooftop Retreat Above It All
At the crown of the apartment tower, a spectacular rooftop sky deck welcomes residents with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sunsets that paint the sky in colors only the Sonoran Desert can offer. Up here, the resort-style lap pool and spa offer a tranquil place to unwind, whether you’re swimming at sunrise or enjoying an evening soak under the stars. Shaded lounging areas, plush seating, and fire pits make the rooftop an ideal gathering place year-round.

Bike trails connect Optima McDowell Mountain@ to its spectacular desert setting

Wellness and Performance, Reimagined
Inside, residents have access to an expansive indoor/outdoor fitness center, thoughtfully equipped with top-tier cardio and strength-training equipment. Surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and opening to fresh desert air, the space fosters motivation, movement, and mindfulness. There’s even a dedicated yoga and stretching area—perfect for solo practice or following along with a virtual session in a serene setting.

Social Spaces that Spark Connection
Beyond fitness, Optima McDowell Mountain® is rich with opportunities for relaxation and recreation. The clubroom and game room bring residents together over billiards, cards, or casual conversation. Whether you’re hosting friends or meeting neighbors, these spaces are designed to feel both luxurious and welcoming—an extension of your private residence.

An Oasis for Pets, Too
Recognizing that pets are part of the family, Optima McDowell Mountain® also features a fully equipped pet spa, making it easy to care for your furry companions after an afternoon trail walk or playtime in one of Scottsdale’s many nearby parks.

Design That Enhances Daily Living
Throughout the apartment tower, intentional design is everywhere. From indoor and outdoor lounge areas to tranquil garden spaces that nod to Optima’s signature love of nature and biophilic design, the environment is crafted to feel like a seamless continuation of the landscape. Even utilitarian elements like the package room and on-site bike storage are elevated through smart design and accessibility.

A Natural Extension of the Optima® Ethos
The amenities at Optima McDowell Mountain® reflect more than just luxury—they represent a lifestyle deeply aligned with Optima’s core principles: wellness, community, and architectural beauty. Here, every element is curated not just for convenience, but for the sheer joy of living well.

For residents of the apartment tower, these amenities create a rhythm of life that’s as restorative as it is inspiring—offering space to breathe, move, connect, and thrive, every single day.To learn more or schedule a tour, visit our site here.

A Journey Through Mid-Century Modernism at the Cranbrook Museum

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Nancy

At the heart of American Modernism, there’s a powerful throughline—one that threads from classroom to gallery, from Bauhaus roots to bold American reinvention. Cranbrook Art Museum’s current exhibition, Eventually Everything Connects: Mid-Century Modern Design in the U.S., illuminates that lineage with grace, depth, and resonance. For those familiar with Optima®’s architectural ethos, the exhibition reads like a love letter to the movement that inspired it—an affirmation that Modernism is not just history, but a living, breathing influence on how we build and live today.

The exhibition takes its title from a famous Charles Eames quote—apt, given that Eames and his wife Ray are central figures in both the show and the broader Cranbrook legacy. As Optima® readers know from past explorations of design history, Charles Eames studied architecture at Cranbrook and later taught there, absorbing and transmitting the school’s experimental spirit. In fact, many of the visionaries featured in Eventually Everything Connects—Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, and Eero Saarinen among them—passed through the doors of this Michigan-based institution before reshaping American design forever.

Herman Miller’s Lounge Chair Wood (LCW) designed by Charles Eames and Ray Kaiser Eames. Original public domain image from Saint Louis Art Museum.

Curated with a reverent yet contemporary eye, the exhibition is more than a retrospective—it’s a sensory map of how ideas traveled, evolved, and ultimately converged to shape the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. Furniture, textiles, ceramics, and graphic design pieces sit alongside architectural models and immersive digital storytelling. The result is a tapestry of influence—one that echoes in the clean lines and honest materials of Optima® communities, from the desert forms of Optima McDowell Mountain® to the lush, elevated designs of Optima Lakeview® in Chicago.

One of the show’s strengths lies in how it foregrounds the network of mentorship and collaboration that defined the era. Florence Knoll’s revolutionary approach to spatial planning, for example, is shown in conversation with Eliel and Eero Saarinen’s architectural philosophy—both deeply rooted in Cranbrook’s pedagogical DNA. Harry Bertoia’s sculptural experimentation, so present in his iconic chairs and sound sculptures, emerges as a counterpoint to the rigorous geometry of Herbert Matter’s photography and Ray Eames’ textile work.

This interdisciplinary cross-pollination is something Optima® has long championed. As we’ve explored in previous posts, the company’s founder, David Hovey Sr., FAIA, drew from these very ideas—bringing together structure, landscape, interiors, and lifestyle into a cohesive vision. At Optima®, the architect is not only the builder, but the planner, developer, and often, the designer of the furniture and finishes themselves. It’s a spirit lifted directly from Cranbrook’s holistic approach.

Eventually Everything Connects also serves as a timely reminder of Modernism’s social ambition. Many of the objects on display—like mass-produced modular furniture or Bauhaus-influenced graphics—emerged from a belief in accessible, democratic design. That ethos continues in Optima®’s own work today, particularly in the integration of nature, wellness, and community across properties. The idea that beautiful design should enhance everyday life isn’t just an aesthetic—it’s a mission.

For visitors, the exhibition isn’t simply a walk through time; it’s an invitation to reconsider the spaces we inhabit today. As we stand inside the clean volumes and sunlit courtyards of Optima Verdana® or admire the breezeways and outdoor corridors of Optima Signature® , we feel the resonance of these mid-century ideals made modern once again.

In short, Eventually Everything Connects is more than an exhibition—it’s a mirror held up to a movement that continues to shape how we live and dream. For those who call an Optima® community home—or for anyone inspired by the ongoing legacy of Modernist design—it’s a pilgrimage well worth making.

The exhibition runs through September 21, 2025. Information about visiting the Cranbrook Museum, curated tours, special events, and the 400-page exhibition book published with Phaidon can be found here.

Exploring Chicago’s Architectural Roots: The “Brick of Chicago” Tour

Posted on July 7, 2025 by Nancy

In a city celebrated for its architectural legacy, few elements are as enduring and evocative as the humble brick. It’s the material that literally built Chicago—layer by layer, block by block—and continues to tell stories of resilience, craftsmanship, and community. Enter the “Brick of Chicago” Tour, a captivating journey through the city’s neighborhoods that reexamines architecture not just as structure, but as cultural memory.

Led by Chicagoan Will Quam, a self-professed “brick enthusiast” and architectural educator, the “Brick of Chicago” Tour invites participants to walk through the city’s streets with fresh eyes. Quam’s passion for masonry is contagious; what begins as a lesson in material science becomes a deeper meditation on history, artistry, and the city’s ever-evolving identity. Whether it’s the bold polychrome patterns of terra cotta from the early 20th century or the subtle color variations in reclaimed Chicago Commons brick, the tour brings a tactile beauty to the urban landscape—one that many passersby might otherwise overlook.

@brickofchicago. A close up of green glazed bricks on N Western Avenue, Humboldt Park.

Chicago’s reputation as an architectural capital is often tied to its steel-frame skyscrapers, Prairie School residences, and Modernist icons. But the “Brick of Chicago” Tour shifts the spotlight to the more granular, often unsung artistry of masonry. Along the way, participants learn about the origins of the clay, the evolution of kiln technology, and the cultural forces that shaped the look and feel of entire neighborhoods.

For residents of Optima Lakeview® and Optima Signature®, the tour offers more than a historical curiosity—it’s a reminder of how texture and materiality continue to shape life in Chicago today. Optima’s own design ethos, while rooted in modernism, shares a reverence for the expressive power of building materials. While Optima’s architecture often emphasizes glass, steel, and lush greenery, it exists in dialogue with the historic palette of the city—recognizing that innovation thrives when it honors context.

At Optima Lakeview®, residents live in a neighborhood that wears its brickwork proudly. From the traditional greystone flats to the repurposed industrial buildings, Lakeview tells a story of layered time—one that pairs seamlessly with Optima’s forward-thinking design. Just blocks away, the tour explores how the city’s historic brickyards contributed to the reddish hue that still defines many of the area’s façades.

Meanwhile, in Streeterville, Optima Signature® rises as a beacon of contemporary living—soaring glass, sweeping views, and cutting-edge amenities. And yet, even here, surrounded by the gleaming skyline, the surrounding architecture pays tribute to the city’s brick heritage. From the nearby Water Tower’s limestone resilience to the classic façades of Northwestern’s law school buildings, the balance between old and new remains a defining Chicago principle.

In a sense, the “Brick of Chicago” Tour isn’t just about buildings. It’s about seeing. It’s about developing an eye for detail, an appreciation for labor, and a love for the quiet stories embedded in walls. For Optima residents—many of whom are drawn to design, urban living, and a sense of place—it’s the perfect way to deepen their connection to the city they call home.

Chicago’s bricks may be fixed in place, but the stories they tell are alive, vibrant, and endlessly revealing. Whether you’re a longtime architecture buff or a curious city dweller, this tour proves that sometimes, the most fascinating views aren’t up in the skyline—but right there at eye level.

About the Walking Tours
The Brick of Chicago walking tours are immersive, neighborhood-specific explorations that invite participants to see familiar streets through a new lens. Led by founder Will Quam, each tour focuses on the rich variety of brickwork, revealing how materials, patterns, and colors tell the story of Chicago’s development.

Tour options rotate seasonally and include neighborhoods like Lakeview, Logan Square, Wicker Park, and the West Side, each offering its own architectural character. Whether you’re marveling at a row of glazed brick apartments from the 1920s or decoding the subtle shifts in color across a century-old façade, you’ll come away with a newfound appreciation for the artistry hidden in plain sight.

Tours are typically 90 minutes to two hours long, with easy walking routes designed for all levels of curiosity and mobility. Dates and locations vary throughout the spring, summer, and fall, and tickets can be reserved in advance through the Brick of Chicago website.

The Timeless Charm of the Scottsdale ArtWalk

Posted on July 2, 2025 by Nancy

In the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, where desert skies glow golden and creativity thrives on every corner, a cherished tradition unfolds each Thursday evening: the Scottsdale ArtWalk. From 7:00 to 9:00 PM, galleries along Main Street and Marshall Way open their doors for a weekly celebration of art, music, conversation, and community. Known as “America’s original ArtWalk,” this longstanding event offers more than just an opportunity to browse—it offers a way to truly engage with the cultural soul of the city.

For residents of nearby Optima® communities—Optima Sonoran Village®, Optima Kierland Apartments®, and Optima McDowell Mountain®—ArtWalk isn’t just a once-in-a-while outing. It’s an extension of home, one of the many ways in which living at Optima means being seamlessly connected to Scottsdale’s dynamic arts and culture scene.

This free and open-to-the-public event invites residents and visitors alike to stroll through the galleries that line Main Street and Marshall Way, many of which open their doors with special exhibitions, artist receptions, live music, and refreshments. The ambiance is casual yet electric, as art lovers mingle with painters, sculptors, and photographers, all against a backdrop of palm trees, desert skies, and glowing streetlamps.

A Tradition of Creativity
First launched in 1975 by the Scottsdale Gallery Association and the City of Scottsdale, the ArtWalk was envisioned as a way to make the city’s growing art scene more accessible. It quickly became a cultural cornerstone, drawing not only collectors but also families, tourists, and curious passersby. Today, it remains one of the longest-running weekly art events in the country—proof of Scottsdale’s deep-rooted commitment to the arts.

Each Thursday offers something new. Galleries rotate exhibits often, spotlighting everything from contemporary desert landscapes to Native American crafts, Western bronze sculptures to avant-garde installations. This ever-changing mix ensures that no two ArtWalks feel quite the same.

The Scene and the Setting
The Scottsdale Arts District itself is a draw, boasting some of the most respected galleries in the Southwest. Whether you’re stepping into the serene world of landscape painting at Bonner David Galleries or discovering bold mixed-media pieces at Wilde Meyer, the district offers a curated range of visual experiences. Bronze statues line the sidewalks, local musicians set the mood with acoustic guitar or jazz saxophone, and horse-drawn carriages sometimes pass by, adding a romantic, nostalgic note.

Visitors can pause for a glass of wine at one of the nearby tasting rooms or enjoy dinner at a local favorite like The Mission or Café Monarch before or after their walk. The ArtWalk isn’t just about viewing art—it’s about savoring an evening out in one of the most charming corners of the city.

A Cultural Hub for All
Part of what makes the Scottsdale ArtWalk so special is its inclusive spirit. While it certainly attracts collectors and connoisseurs, it just as warmly welcomes those who simply enjoy the act of looking. Kids point excitedly at sculptures, couples linger in doorways, and solo strollers find inspiration in quiet corners. For all who attend, it’s an effortless midweek outing—one that blends the sophistication of a gallery visit with the laid-back joy of a desert evening walk.

Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking to do something different on a Thursday night, the Scottsdale ArtWalk offers an experience that’s both timeless and fresh. The galleries are open year-round, and while every week is special, the Scottsdale Gallery Association also organizes themed “Gold Palette ArtWalks” several times a year, featuring added attractions like live painting, food samplings, or cultural performances.

In a city that honors its history while embracing innovation, the Scottsdale ArtWalk is a perfect expression of that spirit—where art meets air, and everyone’s invited to take it all in.

Celebrating Independence Day in Wilmette: A Beloved Summer Tradition

Posted on June 30, 2025 by Nancy

Every summer, the Village of Wilmette transforms into a hub of red, white, and blue as families, friends, and neighbors come together to celebrate the Fourth of July. This year promises another unforgettable Independence Day, packed with the traditions locals treasure—plus a few fresh surprises that keep the festivities vibrant and new.

And for residents of Optima Verdana®, there’s perhaps no better place to be. Located in the heart of downtown Wilmette, Optima Verdana® places its community right at the center of the celebration. Just steps from the parade route and minutes from the lakefront, residents can soak in the sights and sounds of the holiday without ever needing to search for parking—or even leave their block.

July 3: Music, Food, and Fireworks at Gillson Park
Wilmette kicks off the holiday early on Thursday, July 3, with its signature celebration at Gillson Park. Nestled along the Lake Michigan shoreline, this scenic park becomes the heart of the festivities, offering panoramic views and a warm, community feel that defines Wilmette’s character. First up is the Yankee Doodle Dash 5K, which kicks off at 8:00 a.m. Organized by the Wilmette Park District, this festive run welcomes participants of all ages—many donning patriotic gear—as they race along the scenic lakefront. It’s a lively way to start the day, whether you’re chasing a personal best or cheering from the sidelines.

In the afternoon, families can cool off and keep the fun going at the Star Spangled Splash, taking place from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Centennial Park. This kid-friendly event features carnival games, face painting, a bounce house, and a one-of-a-kind confetti “fireworks” show—making it the perfect post-parade destination for younger residents and families looking to extend the celebration.

The evening begins with live music on the main stage, featuring performances by local favorites and regional acts that keep the crowd dancing. Food trucks and vendors will be on-site, serving everything from Chicago-style hot dogs and gourmet tacos to lemonade and kettle corn—making it easy to turn the celebration into a full-fledged picnic under the stars.

As the sun sets, the excitement builds. At approximately 9:30 p.m., the much-anticipated fireworks show lights up the night sky. Set to a soundtrack of patriotic tunes, the display bursts over Lake Michigan in a breathtaking crescendo of color and sound. For many, it’s the emotional high point of the holiday—one that brings generations together on blankets and lawn chairs, eyes skyward in awe.

More Than a Celebration—A Sense of Belonging
What makes Wilmette’s Fourth of July celebrations so special isn’t just the fireworks or the festivities. It’s the sense of belonging that radiates throughout the community. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the neighborhood, it’s a time to connect—to chat with someone you haven’t seen in a while, to introduce your kids to old friends, and to share the joy of summer’s most iconic holiday.

And for the Optima Verdana® community, that connection is part of daily life—rooted in a design that brings people together and surrounded by the vibrant charm of downtown Wilmette.

Tips for a Great Experience

Arrive early at Gillson Park to snag a good spot—parking fills quickly and the best lawn areas go fast.
Bring layers for the fireworks: Lake Michigan breezes can turn cool after sunset.
Bike or walk if possible—especially for the parade. Streets will be closed, and foot traffic will be heavy.
Support local vendors and performers—many are fellow Wilmette residents and small businesses.

As summer unfolds across the North Shore, Wilmette’s Fourth of July celebrations offer a joyful anchor point: a chance to pause, to celebrate, and to revel in the shared rhythms of community life. Whether you’re clapping along at the parade, savoring lakefront fireworks, or greeting neighbors from your balcony at Optima Verdana®, one thing is certain: this Independence Day, you’re exactly where you want to be. For more info and to see the event schedule, visit the Wilmette Park District website here.

Championing Local Legacy: The Ouilmette Foundation’s Role in Wilmette

Posted on June 25, 2025 by Nancy

In the heart of Wilmette, where tree-lined streets meet the quiet beauty of Lake Michigan, the Ouilmette Foundation for the Parks stands as a steward of local history, community enrichment, and civic engagement. Named for Archange Ouilmette—the woman whose land sale helped shape the region—the Foundation connects residents to the people, places, and stories that define this North Shore village. For those who call Optima Verdana® home, the Foundation represents an inspiring example of how deeply rooted community investment can elevate daily life.

Preserving the Past, Investing in the Future
Established to support the Wilmette Park District through fundraising, programming, and community engagement, the Ouilmette Foundation ensures that public spaces and park facilities continue to thrive for generations to come. The organization works behind the scenes to fund special projects, improvements, and recreational opportunities that may fall outside the district’s standard operating budget—enhancing the quality of life for residents of all ages.

From playground renovations and native plant gardens to support for community-wide events, the Foundation plays a critical role in nurturing Wilmette’s natural and cultural landscape. These projects don’t just improve aesthetics—they foster connection. Whether it’s a tot’s first swing ride at Mallinckrodt Park or a concert in Gillson Park with neighbors under the stars, the Foundation helps make these shared moments possible.

The Wallace Bowl. Credit: Ouilmette Foundation Instagram; photo from The North Shore Record.

A Signature Commitment to Community
One of the Foundation’s most visible contributions is its support of beloved community events, such as Summerfest, Concerts in the Park, and Movies on the Green. These free, family-friendly gatherings offer Wilmette residents a chance to come together and celebrate what makes their village special—whether it’s an evening of live music, outdoor cinema, or a stroll through a local art fair.

These experiences echo the same spirit found in Optima® communities: thoughtful design paired with a strong sense of place. Just as Optima Verdana® was conceived with integrated green spaces and resident wellness in mind, the Ouilmette Foundation invests in environments that bring people outdoors, into community, and into closer relationship with their surroundings.

Honoring Heritage with a Modern Lens
The Foundation’s name pays homage to Archange Ouilmette, a trailblazing woman of Potawatomi and French Canadian heritage whose 1829 land sale became part of what is now Wilmette. Her legacy serves as a bridge between the village’s indigenous roots and its continued evolution. By drawing from this history, the Foundation not only grounds its work in heritage but also opens doors to more inclusive storytelling and place-making.

A Shared Vision of Vibrant Living
At Optima®, we recognize that architecture alone doesn’t build community—people do. Organizations like the Ouilmette Foundation are a vital part of the social and civic infrastructure that makes neighborhoods like Wilmette feel like home. Their mission to elevate public space, preserve local character, and create moments of joy aligns closely with our own vision of vibrant, engaged living.

As Wilmette continues to grow and evolve, the Ouilmette Foundation ensures that its unique identity is not only preserved—but amplified. For residents of Optima Verdana® and neighbors across the village, this means more than enhanced parks and events—it means belonging to a community where care, culture, and connection are always in season.

Francine Houben: Architecture as a Symphony of People, Place, and Purpose

Posted on June 23, 2025 by Nancy

At Optima®, we believe great design begins with inclusion. Our “Women in Architecture” series is part of a broader commitment to celebrating the vital contributions of women like Francine Houben, whose vision and leadership continue to shape the built environment in thoughtful, transformative ways. Highlighting these voices not only honors the past and present, but also inspires future generations of architects and designers.

In the often technical and visually driven world of architecture, Dutch architect Francine Houben stands out not just for her expressive buildings, but for her unwavering belief that architecture must serve humanity above all else. As the founding partner and creative director of Mecanoo Architecten, Houben has built a global career grounded in a singular ethos: designing for people.

Rooftop public garden, Library of Birmingham. Designed by Francine Houben. Credit: Sharon VanderKaay on Flickr Creative Commons, licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic Deed.

Born in 1955 in Sittard, the Netherlands, Houben came of age during a pivotal time in architectural thinking—when Brutalism’s reign was giving way to more humanistic, socially conscious design. She studied architecture at the Delft University of Technology, where she would later return as a professor and mentor to a new generation of designers. Early on, Houben showed a proclivity for blending rational urban planning with poetic design, a balance that would come to define her portfolio.

Designing for All the Senses
Houben’s approach is holistic, one that treats architecture as a “symphony of all the senses.” She believes buildings should be welcoming, intuitive, and inclusive, responding to their environments and the diverse communities that inhabit them. As she has put it:

“Architecture is about combining all of the elements of life. It’s not just about functionality or aesthetics—it’s about emotion, atmosphere, and creating a sense of place.”

This philosophy is most vividly realized in her public buildings—libraries, theaters, universities—where people from all walks of life converge.

One of her most celebrated projects is the Delft University of Technology Library (1998), a bold yet graceful structure tucked beneath a sloping grass roof that blurs the boundary between landscape and building. The design is not just iconic; it’s democratic, offering students and faculty a place that’s both functional and inspiring.

Her international acclaim soared with the design of the Library of Birmingham in the UK (2013), a project that redefined what a civic space could be. With its intricate metallic façade and stacked geometric forms, the library is both a beacon of knowledge and a cultural hub. But beyond aesthetics, Houben made sure the building served its community—from offering learning resources to creating public gathering spaces that are free, open, and accessible.

Building Cultural Bridges
Francine Houben’s architecture often acts as a bridge—between past and present, art and function, city and citizen. At the Bruce C. Bolling Municipal Building in Boston (2015), she preserved elements of historic structures while inserting dynamic, light-filled forms to house public services and educational institutions. It’s a powerful expression of how design can support civic pride and equity.

More recently, she led the renovation and expansion of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, D.C., originally designed by Mies van der Rohe. With profound respect for the building’s modernist heritage, Houben introduced warmth, light, and public programming that brought new life to a civic monument.

As she reflects:
“You have to design not for the architect, not for the image, but for the people. That’s where beauty begins.”

Francine Houben’s career is not defined by a signature style, but by a consistent sensibility—an empathetic eye, a human-centered touch, and an insistence that beauty and utility can, and must, coexist. Her influence is not only etched into skylines, but into the evolving philosophy of what architecture can be: a social art, a cultural instrument, a shelter for the soul.

Escaping Into Icons: Renting the Modernist Dream

Posted on June 18, 2025 by Nancy

In a recent Architectural Digest feature, the dream of living in a Modernist masterpiece—even for a night—becomes a reality. From Richard Neutra’s crisp geometries to Albert Frey’s mountain-perched glass box, the article highlights a selection of iconic homes by some of the 20th century’s most influential architects, now available for rent. For fans of Modernism—and for residents and admirers of Optima® communities—it’s an irresistible invitation: a rare chance to inhabit the blueprints of a design revolution.

What makes this article particularly resonant for the Optima® brand is its celebration of the very values that inform every Optima development: connection to landscape, spatial efficiency, and the transformative power of architectural vision. Take Neutra’s Rice House in Los Angeles, for example. Tucked into a lush hillside and outfitted with dramatic horizontal planes and floor-to-ceiling glass, it is a study in indoor-outdoor living—a core principle in Optima’s own projects, from the vertical landscaping of Optima Verdana® to the desert-integrated design of Optima McDowell Mountain®.

Mosby House in Missoula, Montana. Credit: Airbnb

The article doesn’t just catalogue homes; it offers a sensory passport to different regions of the country through the lens of Modernist aesthetics. A visitor to Frey House II in Palm Springs, with its compact footprint and boulder-punctuated interiors, will quickly understand how simplicity and restraint can elevate comfort. Similarly, homes like the Olsen House by Donald Wexler show how metal, glass, and light can harmonize to create a lived experience that feels simultaneously minimal and luxurious—a balance that Optima properties across Scottsdale and Chicago artfully pursue.

For Optima® residents, these rentals might feel more like cousins than aspirational getaways. The modular rhythm of exposed steel and glass, the prioritization of views and natural light, and the seamless blurring of inside and out are already part of everyday life. But there’s still something magnetic about standing in the very spaces that shaped the Modernist canon—homes that were once experiments and are now monuments.

The Architectural Digest roundup is more than a travel guide; it’s a reminder that architecture can be intimate. That great design isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to live in. And while Optima® creates that reality at scale, these short-term rentals offer a pilgrimage of sorts: a tactile, time-bound encounter with the pioneers who laid the foundation for the way we live beautifully today.

For those seeking inspiration or simply a design-forward escape, this curated list of Modernist rentals offers a rare chance to dwell inside history. Just don’t be surprised if, after a few nights immersed in Neutra or Frey, you come home to your own Optima® residence with a renewed appreciation for its vision—and its view.

Experience the Sound of Summer at the 2025 Winnetka Music Festival

Posted on June 16, 2025 by Nancy

This June 20–21, downtown Winnetka transforms into a vibrant hub of music and community as the Winnetka Music Festival returns for its ninth year. Situated along Chicago’s North Shore, this boutique festival offers an impressive lineup of artists across four stages, creating an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere for music lovers of all ages. For residents of Optima Verdana®, the excitement is quite literally in their own back yard—offering unparalleled access to the rhythm, energy, and charm of this beloved local tradition.

A Stellar Lineup
The 2025 festival boasts an eclectic mix of genres, featuring headliners like The Revivalists, Cold War Kids, and Natasha Bedingfield. Attendees can also look forward to performances by Pete Yorn, Cracker, Eggy, Winnetka Bowling League, and emerging talents such as Grace Enger and Carter Faith. With over 30 acts scheduled, the festival promises a rich tapestry of sounds and styles.

Festival Highlights

Main Stage Performances: Experience high-energy sets from renowned artists, with The Revivalists closing Friday night and Cold War Kids headlining Saturday.
Diverse Stages: Beyond the main stage, explore performances at the Lincoln Stage, Chapel Stage, and a dedicated Family Stage, each offering unique musical experiences.
Family-Friendly Activities: Saturday morning features free programming for families, including interactive music sessions and performances tailored for younger audiences.
Culinary Delights: Savor a variety of food and drink options from local vendors, including a dedicated wine bar oasis, enhancing the festival’s community feel.

Tickets and Accessibility
Tickets are available for purchase through the festival’s official website, with options ranging from single-day passes to VIP experiences that include exclusive viewing areas and amenities. The festival’s location in downtown Winnetka is easily accessible, making it a convenient getaway for both locals and visitors.

Join the Celebration
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time attendee, the Winnetka Music Festival offers a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class music in a welcoming, community-oriented setting. Mark your calendar for June 20–21 and be part of this unforgettable summer experience.For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Festival website.

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