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.

At Optima®, where the marriage of modernist architecture and thoughtful design is at the core of our communities, we are inspired by trailblazers who have redefined the field of architecture. One such figure is Gae Aulenti, a visionary Italian architect and designer whose remarkable career transformed the way we think about space and design. Known for her versatile designs and remarkable ability to integrate modernity with historical contexts, Aulenti’s work resonates deeply with our own commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically enriching, making her a fitting subject for our “Women in Architecture” series.

Early Life and Education
Gae Aulenti was born in Palazzolo dello Stella, Italy, in 1927. From a young age, she displayed a keen interest in the arts, which eventually led her to pursue architecture at the Polytechnic University of Milan, graduating in 1954. This was a time when architecture was predominantly male-dominated, yet Aulenti was determined to make her mark.

Career and Influences
Aulenti’s career spanned several decades, during which she became renowned for her ability to create spaces that were not only functional but also aesthetically compelling. She believed that architecture should resonate with its surroundings, echoing the cultural and historical essence of its location. This philosophy guided her work and set her apart as an architect who could bridge the gap between the past and the present.

Her approach was influenced by the Italian neorealist movement, which emphasized simplicity and the honest use of materials. This sensibility is evident in her works, which often incorporated a minimalistic style while respecting the integrity of existing structures.

One of Aulenti’s most celebrated projects was the transformation of the Gare d’Orsay railway station in Paris into the Musée d’Orsay, completed in 1986. This project exemplified her ability to repurpose historical spaces into functional modern environments. She meticulously preserved the Beaux-Arts architecture of the station while converting it into a museum that now houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.

Aulenti’s work on the Musée d’Orsay solidified her reputation as a visionary architect capable of undertaking complex projects that required a delicate balance between old and new. Her design was praised for its respect for the building’s original character while introducing contemporary elements that enhanced its utility and visitor experience.

Another significant project was the restoration and redesign of Palazzo Grassi in Venice. Aulenti’s intervention transformed the 18th-century palace into a contemporary art museum, demonstrating her skill in blending historical architecture with modern design sensibilities.

Aulenti’s influence extended beyond architecture to furniture design. Her “Pipistrello” lamp and “Tavolo con Ruote” table are iconic pieces that reflect her innovative spirit and commitment to creating designs that are both practical and visually striking.

Legacy and Impact
Gae Aulenti’s impact on architecture is profound. She was not only a pioneer in bringing modern design into historical contexts but also a trailblazer for women in a field that had long been dominated by men. Her work continues to inspire architects and designers around the world, illustrating the potential of architecture to transform spaces while honoring their history.

Throughout her career, Aulenti received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Légion d’Honneur from France and the Praemium Imperiale from Japan, recognizing her contributions to the arts. Her work remains a testament to her vision, creativity, and dedication to her craft.

As we reflect on Gae Aulenti’s legacy, we are reminded of the importance of innovation, respect for history, and the role of women in shaping the architectural landscape. At Optima®, we celebrate her achievements as a reminder of what is possible when creativity, courage, and a commitment to excellence converge. Aulenti’s career serves as an inspiration for our own work, as we continue to design spaces that not only meet the needs of today but also honor the legacy of those who have come before us.

At Optima®, we understand the profound impact that thoughtful, inclusive design can have on enhancing community life. Our commitment to fostering vibrant, sustainable living spaces aligns seamlessly with the innovative urban planning seen in Aspern Seestadt, a model for gender-conscious urban design that is transforming the suburbs of Vienna. As we delve into the insights from a recent New York Times article by Valeriya Safronova entitled “Can Urban Design Have a Gender? In This Vienna Suburb, the Answer Is Yes.” we explore how this ambitious project reflects values that resonate deeply with our own.

Aspern Seestadt, a planned community in northeast Vienna, emerged from the vision of Eva Kail, a pioneering urban planner who has shaped life in this sector of Vienna for three decades. Nearly 12,000 people live in this “city within a city” today, with another 14,000 expected in the next decade, making Aspern Seestadt one of the largest urban development projects in Europe.

From the beginning, Aspern Seestadt has committed to gender equality in every aspect of community-building, including housing, infrastructure, health care, public transportation, education, and green spaces. All of the streets and plazas here are named for women — including Janis Joplin Promenade, Hannah Arendt Platz, and Ada Lovelace Strasse. The community features wider sidewalks for strollers, safer parks with more benches, and services and amenities within walking distance. These features cater particularly to women, who perform two-thirds of childcare and often spend more time at home or without a family car.

The approach to urban design focused on gender equity gained momentum in the 1990s. Vienna became a hub for this movement, examining who uses public spaces and who is missing. Now, these rich ideas are being synthesized in Aspern Seestadt. Most services are easy to reach by foot, bus, or bike (bike rentals are free here), promoting the “city of short distances” concept. A services hub with a medical center, grocery store, bank, cafe, and stationery shop is a five-minute bus ride from the subway station. Even closer is the 12-acre artificial lake and surrounding park. The theory is that short distances make running errands and dropping off or picking up children more efficient, lightening the load for care workers. Aspern Seestadt has also limited one-third of its streets to cars to deliver on a promise of sustainability and greater access to the community’s resources for all.

Today, Aspern Seestadt is seen as a safe and supportive community, with engaged residents who are committed to participating in shaping an urban environment that is safe, smart, and beautifully designed for all residents.

As we look toward the future of urban living, projects like Aspern Seestadt inspire and challenge us to rethink how we approach design and community planning. At Optima®, we strive to create spaces that not only meet the needs of our residents but also empower them to lead fulfilling lives. The gender-conscious strategies and the focus on accessibility and sustainability found in Aspern Seestadt resonate with our mission to cultivate communities where every individual can thrive. This Vienna suburb serves as a powerful example of how thoughtful design and a commitment to inclusivity can lead to more equitable, dynamic urban spaces.