At Optima®, we have a deep appreciation for remarkable architectural creations that capture the essence of their time. Today, we voyage to Poissy, France, to explore the famous Villa Savoye – a residence that stands as a symbol of the Modernist movement and a testament to the genius of the Swiss-born architect, Le Corbusier.
Inaugurated in 1931, the Villa Savoye encapsulates Le Corbusier’s vision of what a home should be: a “machine for living,” embodying functionality, form, and harmony with the surrounding environment. Distinctly modern, yet timeless in appeal, Villa Savoye is the quintessential realization of Le Corbusier’s Five Points of Architecture.
The free designing of the ground plan, a central tenet of Le Corbusier’s philosophy, is showcased brilliantly in Villa Savoye. The open layout creates a fluidity of movement within the house, each room transitioning seamlessly into the next. The façade, free from structural constraints, features an elegant composition of horizontal windows, providing abundant natural light and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The villa also embodies the principle of free design of the façade, resulting in a strikingly minimalist exterior that foregoes decorative excess in favor of simple geometric forms. The ramp and the roof garden, other key aspects of Le Corbusier’s Five Points, add layers of functionality and aesthetic interest. The ramp provides a gentle, processional path through the villa, while the roof garden reclaims the green space sacrificed by the building’s footprint.
Interior of Villa Savoye. Photo: Timothy Brown, Flickr Creative Commons
At the heart of this architectural marvel is Le Corbusier’s concept of architectural promenade – the notion that architecture is best experienced moving through space and time. The journey through Villa Savoye is a continuous narrative, each room a chapter, each view a verse, unfolding the poetry of Le Corbusier’s architectural vision.
We revel in the opportunity to celebrate this modernist gem, designed by a pioneer of the movement, Le Corbusier, as an embodiment of innovation, artistic expression, and the timeless human desire for harmony between our creations and the world they inhabit. Just like Villa Savoye, Optima® is committed to creating spaces that respect and enhance their environment, thus contributing to the enduring legacy of architectural excellence.
Situated just a short drive from Optima Verdana in Wilmette, the Chicago Botanic Garden stands as an architectural testament to the harmonious blend of art, nature, and community. It is a verdant oasis that transcends the traditional boundaries of urban landscaping, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
This sprawling sanctuary covers an impressive 385 acres, strategically mapped out into 27 distinct gardens and four natural areas. It’s not just a garden; it’s a living canvas where architectural genius and nature’s beauty come together in a vibrant display of community spirit. Strolling through the winding paths reveals the careful landscape curations. The structures dotting the garden offer more than functionality; they’re creative landmarks contributing to a magical environment. From the modern flair of the energy-efficient Regenstein Learning Campus or the timeless elegance of the English Walled Garden’s trellis design, each corner unfurls a tale of architectural innovation.
These architectural marvels are not standalone elements. They enrich the landscape, facilitating coexistence between tranquil spaces like the Japanese Garden and the energetic vibes of the Model Railroad Garden. Such diverse experiences demonstrate the incredible potential when architecture underpins community spaces. It’s a place where families spend sunny afternoons, where friendships blossom over shared plant care tips, and where the community comes together to celebrate the natural beauty that is inherent in the surrounding city. The garden encapsulates the essence of community living – shared spaces that inspire, invigorate, and engage.
The Sensory Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden
In addition to its aesthetic charm and natural beauty, the Chicago Botanic Garden bustles with an array of special events. This summer, visitors can immerse themselves in the Love in Bloom exhibition, a captivating showcase of floral beauty, running until September 24, 2023. The After Buzz Hours offers a unique twist, allowing visitors to chat with garden scientists over cocktails. These events represent just a glimpse into the Garden’s dynamic calendar, which can be fully explored on their official website.
The Chicago Botanic Garden is more than an assortment of plants or an architectural accomplishment. It stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when architecture and nature unite.
Visiting hours are 10 AM to 8 PM daily, with tickets available for purchase on their website.
At Optima®, we have a keen appreciation for the confluence of form and function in architecture. It is with this sense of admiration that we turn our spotlight to a piece of Chicago’s history that is as breathtaking as it is groundbreaking. This iconic gem, standing sentinel over the city, is none other than the Ceres sculpture, an embodiment of Modernist art and a testament to the vision and talent of Modernist American sculptor, John Bradley Storrs.
Born in Chicago in 1885, John Storrs was a sculptor who left an indelible mark on the world of American Modernism. Schooled at some of the finest art institutions, including the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Académie Julian in Paris, Storrs’ work blends the classical with the modern, and the human with the industrial.
His contribution to the Modernist movement was unique in its ability to bridge contrasting worlds. His work was firmly grounded in the traditional forms of sculpture, yet boldly embraced the dynamism and aesthetic of the burgeoning machine age. His sculptures captured the soul of a society caught in a transformative period with the comforts of the old world, giving way to promises of the new.
John Bradley Storrs. Photo: Chicago History Museum
Perhaps nowhere is this more apparent than in Storrs’s iconic Ceres sculpture. Perched atop the Chicago Board of Trade Building, rising majestically at the southern end of the LaSalle Street canyon, Ceres is a tribute to the Roman goddess of agriculture — a fitting emblem for a building that was home to the largest grain exchange in the United States.
This 31-foot figure, however, is no ordinary depiction of a goddess. Storrs deviated from the typical portrayal of deities in classical realism. Instead, he rendered her in a form that was abstract and streamlined, reflecting the popular Art Deco style of the 1930s. This faceless figure, devoid of any discernible features, was a deliberate departure from tradition. Storrs recognized that from the ground, the details of Ceres’s face would be lost. In response, he sought to create a silhouette, an impression, something that would be striking against the backdrop of the Chicago skyline.
Initially, the abstract representation of Ceres drew mixed reactions. However, over the years, it has come to be celebrated as an integral part of Chicago’s architectural landscape — a symbol of the city and a beacon of the Art Deco era.
We are endlessly fascinated by the harmonious architectural aesthetics and symbolic functionality found in Ceres. This beloved Chicago icon remains a timeless testament to Storrs’ profound creativity, encapsulating the spirit of Modernism, standing as a monument to an era that dared to redefine the rules of art and architecture.
At Optima®, we have an unending fascination for architectural masterpieces, especially those that have shaped and defined the Modernist movement. Today, our focus rests upon an extraordinary residence, the David and Gladys Wright House, designed by none other than the father of architecture himself, Frank Lloyd Wright.
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, this house stands out as one of Wright’s most innovative residential designs. Constructed in 1952 for his son David and daughter-in-law Gladys, this home reveals the intimate connection Wright shared with his family, articulated in his distinctive architectural language.
Crafted towards the end of his prolific career, the David and Gladys Wright House reflects Wright’s refined understanding of organic architecture and his remarkable ability to adapt to the character of the site. The house, built with native concrete blocks, rises in a spiral form from the desert landscape, its curvilinear design echoing the shape of the nearby mountains.
The unique spiraling form of the house is a significant departure from the typical linear construction seen in many of Wright’s works, and it manifests his deep reverence for the natural world. The spiraling design ascends gracefully from the ground, turning 360 degrees to provide panoramic views of Camelback Mountain and the surrounding landscape.
Inside, Wright’s naturalistic design philosophy continues — the interior floor plan unfolds like a nautilus shell, with rooms radiating from the central hearth, embodying the hearth’s symbolic role as the heart of the home. The characteristics Wright touches—built-in furniture, extensive use of natural light, and harmonious color palettes—are in full swing here, creating a seamless dialogue between the exterior and interior spaces.
Notable, too, is the home’s thoughtful integration of modern technology for its time. It was designed with innovative features such as energy-efficient passive solar heating, natural cooling, and a functional, open kitchen that was ahead of its time.
Despite facing threats of demolition, the house has been preserved thanks to the concerted efforts of preservationists, historians, and fans of Wright’s work. Today, the David and Gladys Wright House stands as a testimony to Wright’s genius and his enduring influence on Modernist architecture.
At Optima®, we’re continually captivated by such Modernist masterpieces that speak volumes about the era’s architectural ethos. Frank Lloyd Wright’s David and Gladys Wright House, with its distinctive design blending built form and natural environment, remains a profound source of inspiration and a vivid embodiment of Wright’s creative brilliance.
Plaza Del Lago, nestled on Sheridan Road in the heart of Wilmette, and a short distance from Optima VerdanaⓇ, is a historic marvel that effortlessly blends architectural elegance with commercial success. Conceived in the Roaring Twenties, this Spanish-style district was the first of its kind in the state, and it has persevered through time, maintaining its significance in the community as a hub for engagement.
Real estate visionary Henry G. Foreman was the mastermind behind Plaza Del Lago. In 1927, Foreman and various North Shore locals embarked on creating Spanish Court, a Mediterranean-inspired commercial hub boasting luxury apartments, upscale retail stores, and an automobile service station. Chicago-based architect Edward Hill Clark drew up the plans, initially intending to build four Spanish architecture-style complexes, a style associated with affluence at the time, along Sheridan Road.
Construction of the plaza concluded in 1928, and it promptly opened its doors to its first occupants, which included Spanish Court Pharmacy, Teatro del Lago, and Bill’s Realty. The architecture uniquely blended Spanish and Mediterranean influences with early 20th-century American design. The intricate archways, vibrant tiles, and ornate ironwork stand as a testament to the detailed craftsmanship that brought this landmark to life.
Unfortunately, a fire in the mid-1930s affected many buildings in the area, slowing traffic. However, years later, Evanston lawyer Plato Foufas discovered that a large section of the community, including the Spanish Court, was up for sale. Upon purchasing the land, Foufas began the renovation of the famed shopping plaza in 1967, adding arcade shops, new stores, a street fountain and renaming it Plaza del Lago.
Credit: Secretname101, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Over the years, Plaza Del Lago has expertly balanced vintage charm with modern utility. The original structure is carefully preserved, with several buildings retaining their initial function. The plaza’s bell tower, a feature from the original construction in 1928, remains one of its main architectural highlights today. The plaza now hosts a variety of annual events, from a summer concert series to art and car shows, along with a mixture of boutiques, gourmet food outlets and wellness studios, upholding Foreman’s vision of a bustling community hub.
Today, Plaza Del Lago remains a timeless symbol of Wilmette’s history and enduring spirit. It enchants visitors with its architectural grandeur, vibrant retail scene, and picturesque lakeside vistas, standing proudly as a prominent fixture in Wilmette’s narrative.
At Optima®, we are continually fascinated by the architectural masterpieces that exemplify the harmony between design and the narratives they hold. Today, we cast the spotlight on an architectural gem from the Mid-century Modern era, St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Gary, Indiana, designed by Edward Dart.
In the steel town of Gary, just across the Illinois border from Chicago, 30 African-Americans chartered a new Episcopal mission in 1927. The congregation weathered its early years to grow strong and financially stable by the mid-1950s, leading to the decision to commission their own place of worship. The conception of this project was nurtured by the Great Migration, which saw many African-Americans migrating from the South to Gary, drawn by job opportunities in the thriving steel industry.
By 1955, St. Augustine’s (fondly referred to as ‘St. Aug’s’) embarked on the purchase of a pipe organ. When discussions veered towards the building of their own church, the organ sales representative suggested Edward Dart, an architect whose style would come to define the church’s distinctive look.
The collaboration between Edward Dart, a white architect from New Orleans, and St. Aug’s, a Black Episcopal mission, was unusual for the mid-1950s. Yet, over the course of four years, their shared vision resulted in an architectural design that incorporated local materials like Indiana limestone, honoring both the community’s roots and Dart’s signature style. Completed in 1959 at a cost of $120,000, St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church received the AIA Citation of Merit and the Church Architectural Guild’s Honor Award almost immediately.
St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Gary, IN. Photo: National Register of Historic Places
Despite the acclaim, the church’s congregation remained largely unseen, their presence neutralized in the predominantly white architectural narrative of the era. This erasure was eventually rectified in 1961 when the mission was granted full parish status, two years after the building was completed. Today, the congregation stands strong and the church continues to radiate its original beauty.
At Optima®, we find structures like St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church deeply fascinating, serving as profound expressions of the era’s architectural ethos that enrich our understanding of space, design, and community. St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church remains an enduring testament to Dart’s genius, a beacon of the Mid-century Modernist spirit that continues to captivate architects and designers worldwide.
As part of our ongoing “Women in Architecture” series, we’re sharing the story of Glenda Kapstein, an activist for architectural innovation and environmental consciousness. Her impressive body of work has not only redefined the architectural landscape of her home country but has also served as an inspiration for architects worldwide. Discover the remarkable journey of her life and career below:
The Life of Glenda Kapstein
Born and raised in Santiago, Chile, Glenda Kapstein was a curious and imaginative child. The city’s skyline, with its mix of colonial charm and modern ambition, made it the perfect place to fall in love with architecture at a young age. One of her earliest inspirations was Cantalao, a project dedicated to the culture and people of Chile, promoted by Chilean poet Pablo Neruda.
Kapstein decided to pursue architecture as a career, enrolling at the University of Valparaíso in 1959 and spent two years of school studying across Europe before finally graduating in 1967. Following her graduation, she moved to Spain to work with Spanish Architects Antonio and José Camuñas, who were hired to complete more than 3,000 houses in and around Madrid. Kapstein continued to pick up a mixture of jobs, from working as the Regional Director of Tourism in Antofagasta, Chile, to teaching at the Catholic University of the North (UCN). However, she eventually left to help UCN establish an architecture department and create a study laboratory of her own. With her laboratory, Kapstein was able to explore her interests in how climate dictates architecture.
The House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta, 1991, Courtesy of Carla Monforte Kapstein
Fuelled by the desire to broaden her perspectives, in 1994, Kapstein pursued her Master’s degree from the prestigious Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. The university’s broad and holistic approach to architecture further nurtured her growing passion and seeded her design philosophy with the importance of context and cultural relevance. There, she was surrounded by an inspiring blend of cultures, perspectives, and design philosophies that further refined her approach toward architecture.
Notable Works and Achievements
In her professional work, Kapstein worked to shape architecture that was not just aesthetically appealing but also ecologically responsible and socially sensitive. She viewed architecture as a powerful medium to express the historical, environmental, and social context of a place. As a result, her designs sought to harmoniously blend these elements, creating spaces that were both functional and meaningful.
Intermediate space within The House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta, 1991, Courtesy of Carla Monforte Kapstein
The most iconic example of Kapstein’s vision is the House of Spiritual Exercises of the Alonso Ovalle Foundation in Antofagasta. Built in 1991, this project stands out as a beacon of sustainable architecture, with its design seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape. The build, executed under Kapstein’s leadership with fellow architect Osvaldo Muñoz, is characterized by various intermediate spaces linking the interiors with the exterior desert. It incorporates innovative, energy-efficient features that minimize environmental impact while providing a state-of-the-art space to celebrate Chile’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The project was a finalist for the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion Award for Latin American architecture in 1998 and the PLEA International Award in 2003, and was sadly demolished in 2019 for unknown reasons against the wishes of Kapstein’s family.
Another testament to Kapstein’s architectural philosophy is her work on the expansion of the Hotel Tulor in San Pedro de Atacama, a desert tourism hotspot. Still committed to ecological responsibility and cultural resonance, Kapstein incorporated local materials and traditional construction methods, resulting in an addition that seamlessly blended with the desert landscape and paid homage to the Atacama people’s heritage. Her design employed sustainable practices like passive cooling and heating to reduce energy consumption. The Hotel Tulor project underlines Kapstein’s distinct approach to architecture, combining innovation, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity, further establishing her as one of Chile’s most influential architects.
Rooms at Hotel Tulor, San Pedro de Atacama, made of adobe, wood and stone
Glenda Kapstein’s life and career are a testament to her commitment, creativity, and vision. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring architects, especially women, reminding us all that architecture is not just about creating structures, but about creating stories, preserving heritage, and designing a sustainable future.
At Optima®, we are always excited to share unique architectural experiences that reflect our passion for design. So mark your calendars, Modern enthusiasts, we have some fantastic news for you! The second biennial Modernism Road Rally Tour of Homes is returning to celebrate the Mid Century Modern architectural legacy of Chicagoland. Launched in 2021, this biennial event takes place in different community areas of Chicagoland. This year’s edition will lead you through the captivating south suburban enclaves of Flossmoor and Olympia Fields.
The 2023 Modernism Road Rally Tour showcases homes designed by renowned midcentury architects such as Keck & Keck, Edward Dart, and Bertrand Goldberg, as well as architects like Edward Humrich, John McPherson, and John S. Townsend. Participants will have the opportunity to admire the exteriors and enjoy limited interior tours of select homes, offering an intimate glimpse into these architectural gems.
The event organizers have partnered with the Foundation for the Preservation of Flossmoor History for this year’s edition. A percentage of the proceeds will contribute to the restoration of the historic Wagner Building, which is scheduled to open in time for Flossmoor’s Centennial in 2024.
Conservatory Vintage & Vinyl, situated in the charming 1920s-era downtown Flossmoor, will serve as the event headquarters. After exploring the architectural marvels, participants can join the post-event party at the Flossmoor Station Restaurant & Brewery, a former railroad stop transformed into a lively social hub.
Flossmoor, founded in 1924, experienced a construction slowdown during World War II, followed by rapid postwar development. Its neighboring community, Olympia Fields, started in 1913, primarily as golf cottages surrounding the famous Olympia Fields Country Club. Post-World War II, the legendary modernist subdivisions of Graymoor and Country Club Woods were developed, boasting numerous outstanding examples of Mid Century Modern architecture.
Participants can purchase tickets for the tour, post-tour party, and sculpture tour online. The event also offers a trolley shuttle service along the entire tour route on Saturday, included in the ticket price (reservation required at the time of ticket purchase). Event check-in will be available at Conservatory Vintage & Vinyl for all paid attendees on Friday, June 23, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday, June 23, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The second biennial Modernism Road Rally Tour is an exciting opportunity for architecture enthusiasts to delve into the fascinating world of Mid Century Modern design in Chicagoland. At Optima®, we are delighted to share this event with you and hope you enjoy exploring the rich architectural heritage of Flossmoor and Olympia Fields. Don’t miss out on this unique experience, and be sure to reserve your tickets here in advance!
Please note that there will be no walk-up ticket sales available.
At Optima®, we are always delighted to showcase the works of Modernist architects who have made waves in the field. One such architect, whose innovative designs and extraordinary imagination have left a lasting impression, is John Lautner. Today, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of Lautner’s architectural style, highlighting his inspirations and the significance of his contributions to the field.
John Lautner (1911-1994), born in Marquette, MI, had a distinctive style that was shaped by his early apprenticeship under the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as by his own profound interest in engineering, organic architecture, and the natural world. Lautner’s designs are characterized by their seamless integration with the environment, imaginative use of materials, and bold, sculptural forms.
One of the fundamental aspects of Lautner’s architectural style was his ability to harmoniously blend his structures with their surrounding landscape. Drawing inspiration from Wright’s organic architecture principles, Lautner believed that buildings should not only respect their natural environment but also enhance it. His designs often feature extensive use of glass, allowing for unobstructed views and creating a synchronicity between the interior and exterior spaces.
His fascination with engineering and materiality allowed him to push the boundaries of conventional architectural design. He frequently employed innovative construction techniques, such as the use of cantilevers, to create seemingly gravity-defying spaces. Additionally, Lautner’s designs often incorporated a diverse range of materials, including concrete, steel, and timber, as well as experimental materials like sprayed-on concrete (gunite).
One of Lautner’s most notable projects showcasing his innovative use of materials is the Chemosphere (1960), a futuristic octagonal house perched atop a single concrete column in the Hollywood Hills. The house appears to float above the landscape, demonstrating Lautner’s ability to create a sense of weightlessness and otherworldly charm.
Lautner’s architectural style is characterized by a sense of spatial fluidity, as he sought to create open, flowing interiors that defied conventional notions of rooms and boundaries. His designs often feature sweeping curves and dramatic angles, resulting in dynamic, visually captivating spaces.
The Elrod House (1968) in Palm Springs, for example, demonstrates Lautner’s mastery of spatial fluidity. With its iconic conical roof and open-plan living spaces, the house appears to grow organically from the rocky landscape. This seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces is further emphasized by the use of retractable glass walls, which allow the residents to fully experience the surrounding desert environment. Also, did we mention that the Elrod House was featured in the 1971 James Bond film, Diamonds Are Forever?
While Lautner’s architectural style was undoubtedly influenced by his time spent working under Wright, his experiences working with other luminary architects like Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler helped him shape a unique vision and dedication to experimentation.
We take immense pleasure in celebrating the contributions of Modernist architects like John Lautner, whose groundbreaking designs continue to inspire and captivate. His iconic structures stand as testaments to the power of imagination and the importance of embracing the ever-evolving landscape of design.
Arizona, and particularly Scottsdale, has long been a hotspot for architectural innovation, blending the region’s natural beauty with groundbreaking design. From Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West to Paolo Soleri’s Acosanti, the state is home to a variety of remarkable structures that push the boundaries of architectural thought. One standout example is the iconic Hotel Valley Ho, a mid-century modern masterpiece nestled in the heart of Scottsdale. Today, we’re exploring the hotel’s fascinating history, stunning architectural features and commitment to preservation and sustainability.
Nestled in the heart of Scottsdale, the Hotel Valley Ho opened its doors in 1956. The hotel was designed by Edward L. Varney, a prominent mid-century modern architect and a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the hotel sought to combine the glamor of Hollywood with the natural beauty of Arizona. Over the years, the Hotel Valley Ho has hosted numerous celebrities and undergone multiple renovations to maintain its charm and relevance.
The Hotel Valley Ho stands as a shining example of mid-century modern architecture. Its sleek, minimalist design is characterized by clean lines, flat planes, and expansive glass walls that seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor spaces. The hotel’s iconic cantilevered roof lines and butterfly roofs give it a futuristic appeal while providing shape and protection from the elements.
The rooms and pool at Hotel Valley Ho. Photo: C.C. Chapman, 2011, Flickr Creative Commons CC-BY-NC-ND 2.0 Deed
One of the most striking features of the Hotel Valley Ho is its use of materials, including concrete, steel, and native Arizona stone, which all pay homage to the state’s desert landscape. Additionally, the interior boasts vibrant colors, geometric patterns, and custom-designed furnishings that embody the essence of mid-century modern design.
Beyond its architectural prowess, The Hotel Valley Ho offers luxurious amenities to cater to every guest’s needs. The property is home to two separate pools: The OH Pool, which features a lively atmosphere complete with a bar and cabana, and the more serene OHasis Pool, perfect for relaxation. Guests can also enjoy the award-winning VH Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and exceptional dining options, including the ZuZu restaurant, which serves inventive American cuisine. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to Scottsdale’s vibrant art galleries, shopping and outdoor activities.
Hotel Valley Ho lobby. Photo: C.C. Chapman, 2011, Flickr Creative Commons CC-BY-NC-ND 2.0 Deed
In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the Hotel Valley Ho has demonstrated a commitment to preservation and sustainability over the years. A comprehensive restoration project in 2005 revitalized the hotel’s historic features and expanded its footprint. Modern amenities and sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient LED lighting, solar panels for heating pool water and a robust recycling program have been incorporated throughout the property. This commitment ensures that future generations can experience the magic of this mid-century modern masterpiece.
The Hotel Valley Ho truly offers an unforgettable experience, seamlessly blending luxury, history and sustainability. Its timeless design and dedication to preserving its heritage make it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and travelers alike.
