modern design Archives

Alexander Girard: A Vibrant Symphony of Modern Design

Posted on July 19, 2023 by Hunter

In the grand scheme of modern architecture and design, each virtuoso brings their unique understanding, forever shaping the field. Today, we celebrate one such figure, Alexander Girard, whose contributions have resonated through time, echoing his innovative spirit, unparalleled creativity, and ceaseless passion for design.

Born in 1907 in New York City and raised in Florence, Italy, Girard was an architect, interior designer, furniture designer, textile artist, and much more. His work was a vibrant fusion of colors, patterns, and cultures, weaving together aesthetics from around the world to create a visual language that was uniquely his own.

Braniff Airplane Makeover. Photo: Michael Dant

An integral part of the American mid-century modernist movement, Girard worked alongside luminaries such as Charles and Ray Eames and George Nelson at Herman Miller. His work, however, extended beyond the confines of a singular style or discipline. From his iconic textile designs to his whimsical braniff airlines makeover, Girard was a master of imbuing spaces and objects with a sense of joy and vibrancy. His designs always held a humanistic approach, seeing each project as an opportunity to enhance the daily lives of people.

His interior design for the Miller House in Columbus, Indiana, stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent. This residence, considered a landmark of modernist architecture, perfectly illustrates how Girard’s playful approach to design transformed the idea of what a domestic interior could be.

Miller House Interior, regarded as the world’s first conversation pit. Photo: Newfields

Beyond his professional work, Girard was an ardent collector of folk art, believing in its ability to inspire and influence contemporary design. His vast collection found a home in the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe, a testament to his global perspective and appreciation for diverse cultures.

His bold use of color, his human-centric approach to design, and his innovative interpretations continue to inspire architects and designers worldwide. As we appreciate the rich tapestry of modern design, the work of Alexander Girard stands as a timeless composition of innovation, creativity, and humanism — a celebration of life, color, cultural diversity, and a reminder of how design can bring joy and meaning into our everyday lives.

Are Stained Glass Windows Out of Style?

Posted on July 17, 2023 by Hunter

At Optima®, we’re always fascinated to spotlight the unique elements of architecture and design that have had a profound impact in history. This time, we’re focusing on the renaissance of a timeless art form that is seamlessly bridging the gap between the traditional and the contemporary — Stained Glass Windows.

Stained-glass windows, or art glass windows, often appreciated for their utility and beauty, have roots tracing back to ancient Rome. They blossomed into prominence between 1150 and 1500, adorning the cathedrals of Europe with intricate, vibrant patterns. But the modern era is experiencing a resurgence of this art form. Today, stained glass windows aren’t confined to churches or Victorian homes but have made an enchanting comeback in contemporary design.

Arthur B Heurtley House. Photo: yooperann

Famed architects have leveraged the beauty of stained glass in their designs. Frank Lloyd Wright, for instance, frequently incorporated art glass into his iconic works, including the remarkable Arthur Heurtley House in Oak Park. Here, he integrated stained glass windows into the home’s design, creating intricate geometric patterns that brought warmth, privacy, and an unparalleled aesthetic charm. The use of art glass also reveals itself in the Oak Circle Historic District, a small grouping of 15 early twentieth-century houses, built primarily in the Craftsmen style with magnificent detailing from the Prairie School of Architecture.

Craftsman style house with art glass windows in Oak Circle. Photo: Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty

Stained glass windows are more than just pleasing aesthetics. They are crafted with a fascinating process. The basic ingredients for glass, sand, and wood ash are melded into a beautiful symphony of colors with the addition of powdered metals. These pieces of colored glass are assembled into captivating designs that tell stories, highlight themes, or merely add an artist’s touch to any space.

Why are stained glass windows reclaiming their spot in modern design, you ask? Their versatility, for one, is unmatched. Customizable to fit any stylistic preference, they can embody soft, subtle color combinations or bold, elaborate displays. But their versatility extends beyond just aesthetics. Though windows are the most common form, stained glass has been creatively integrated into room dividers, doors, and even fireplace screens.

In the Szafraniec Chapel at Wawel Cathedral, by Jozef Mehoffer; 1908.
Photo: Slices of Light

Moreover, these artistic installations are a boon to privacy. Stained glass windows can block unattractive views without compromising on natural light. This interplay of privacy and luminosity creates intimate spaces infused with a stunning spectrum of colors.

Stained glass windows also serve as a profitable investment. They’re known to increase the value of your home in more ways than one. From enhancing your home’s curb appeal to augmenting its market and perceived value, stained glass windows serve as an alluring asset.

We’re thrilled to see the innovative ways in which stained glass windows are being used in modern design. Every architectural element tells a story and contributes to the overall narrative of the space. Stained glass windows are a testament to this belief – a beautiful blend of art, history, functionality, and design. In the end, they give us pause, reminding us that while architecture serves as a canvas, it’s our creativity that paints the picture.

Phoenix Architecture Spotlight: The David and Gladys Wright House

Posted on June 7, 2023 by Hunter

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.

David and Gladys Wright House, Photo: Andrew Pielage

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.

Modernist Designs Revisited: Don’t Worry Darling

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Hunter

Modernist design. You see it everywhere, from the sleek lines of towering buildings like Chicago’s 875 N Michigan Ave to your favorite coffee shop’s decor. We can’t escape it, and why would we want to? Museums celebrate it, architects can’t get enough of it and recently, movie makers have used it to help to tell stories of their own. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into the stylish world of the movie Don’t Worry Darling and its use of modernist design:

Think back to a period spanning from the mid-1930s to the mid-1960s. It was a time when visionaries like Ludwig Van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and Walter Gropius were stirring things up in the architecture world. They championed a design style that was all about simplicity and functionality. It was all clean lines, smooth organic curves, and a deep respect for the materials used.

Don’t Worry Darling, set in 1950s California, sought to embrace all that this era valued; using sets that included open floor plans, large windows and bold colors among other features. Katie Byron, the film’s production designer, looked towards other iconic architects of the time, including Albert Frey and Richard Neutra, for inspiration in her design. And with the help of the many mid-century modern homes that fill the neighborhood in Palm Springs, California, where the movie was shot, Byron’s vision came to life.

While most of the exterior scenes throughout the movie were shot at real locations, many of the interior scenes were shot at sets, excluding one scene shot within Richard Neutra’s Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs, one of the most iconic pieces of desert modernist architecture. Built in 1946, the home’s outlining modern features include a flat roof, pale coloring and shaded atmospheres.

Byron took inspiration from architect Albert Frey by using his favorite color, ‘Frey Blue’ — a teal — as a theme throughout the film. From interior design elements like a bathtub and curtains to exterior elements like pool water. She also utilized Palm Springs City Hall, designed by Frey, an example of Frey’s playful approach to architecture and design.

By seamlessly integrating real-life architectural masterpieces and carefully constructed sets inspired by iconic mid-century architects, Byron helped Don’t Worry Darling encapsulate the vision of simplicity, functionality, and respect for materials that characterized the era. This exploration of modernism through film emphasizes the lasting appeal and influence of this timeless design movement, which continues to shape our spaces and stories.

2023 Modernism Road Rally Tour

Posted on May 17, 2023 by Hunter

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.

John Lautner’s Journey Through Space and Form

Posted on May 10, 2023 by Hunter

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).

Chemosphere, John Lautner. Photo: Julius Schulman © J. Paul Getty Trust. Getty Research Institute

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?

Elrod House, John Lautner. Photo : Nelson-Moe Group

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.

Scottsdale Architecture Spotlight: Hotel Valley Ho

Posted on May 8, 2023 by Hunter

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 by C.C. Chapman, 2011

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’s lobby, Photo by C.C. Chapman, 2011

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.

George Frederick Keck: How A Modernist Master Shaped the Chicago Skyline

Posted on April 26, 2023 by Hunter

Chicago has long been a hotbed for Modernist architecture, with the likes of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Walter Gropius all calling the city home at various points in their careers. At Optima®, we are always delighted to showcase the groundbreaking work of Modernist architects who have left an indelible mark on our urban landscape. Today, we are opening the aperture to focus on George Fred Keck, an architect whose innovative designs and pioneering spirit greatly influenced the development of modern architecture in Chicago and beyond.

Born in 1895 in Watertown, Wisconsin, George Fred Keck was destined to become a trailblazer in the world of Modernist architecture. After studying at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Keck established his own firm with his brother William in 1926 — Keck & Keck. The siblings’ shared passion for Modernism and sustainability led them to create designs that were both environmentally-conscious and ahead of their time.

Keck-Gottschalk-Keck Apartments. Photo: Ryerson & Burnham Archives Archival Image Collection

Keck’s most famous work is undoubtedly the House of Tomorrow, a groundbreaking design he created for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, also known as the Century of Progress Exposition. The house showcased innovative ideas such as floor-to-ceiling glass walls, central air conditioning, and even an attached garage with an electric door opener. These cutting-edge features not only made the House of Tomorrow a sensation at the fair, but also laid the groundwork for the modern home as we know it today.

With Keck’s commitment to sustainable design came a fascination with solar energy. In the early 1940s, he and his brother William designed the first solar-powered house in the United States. Known as the Keck-Gottschalk-Keck Apartments and located at 5551 South University Avenue in Hyde Park, this remarkable dwelling relied on south-facing windows and a solar heating system to maximize the capture and use of solar energy. This early foray into sustainable design would pave the way for future architects to embrace environmentally conscious practices.

House of Tomorrow. Photo: Chicago History Museum, Hedrich Blessing Collection

As we celebrate the life and work of George Fred Keck, we at Optima® are once again reminded of the transformative power of Modernist architecture. Keck’s innovative designs, environmental consciousness, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural form have left an unforgettable mark on the city of Chicago and on the world of architecture.

Alison and Peter Smithson: The Dynamic Duo That Transformed Modern Architecture

Posted on April 24, 2023 by Hunter

Today, Optima® is delighted to highlight both the exceptional career of Alison Smithson (1928-1993) and the influential partnership with Peter Smithson (1923-2003), her husband and lifelong collaborator. As visionary British architects, they jointly shaped the modernist architectural movement with their pioneering New Brutalist approach, drawing inspiration from the works of Mies Van der Rohe and Le Corbrusier. Their collaborative efforts have left a lasting legacy in the field, inspiring future generations of architects, both men and women.

Alison Smithson was born in Sheffield, England, and pursued architecture at the King’s College, Durham in Newcastle (later the Newcastle University School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape), then University of Durham, between 1944 and 1949. It was during her studies that she met Peter Smithson. United by their passion for architecture, Alison and Peter shared a desire to challenge the conventional norms of their time.

Hunstanton School in Norfolk, 1949-1959. Photo: Wikiarquitectura

The Smithsons’ professional partnership was defined by groundbreaking projects that had significant impact on the modernist architectural movement. One of their early works, the Hunstanton School in Norfolk, exemplified the New Brutalist movement with its minimalist design and exposed structural elements. Other iconic projects include the Economist Building in London, the Robin Hood Gardens housing complex, and their own home, the Smithson House, in Wiltshire.

Economist Building in London. Photo: a+t Research Group. August, 2015

Alison and Peter Smithson were known for pushing the boundaries of modernist design and reimagining architectural norms. They sought to create buildings that were functional and also contextually sensitive and responsive to the needs of their occupants. By blending elements of Brutalism, modernism, and regionalism in their designs, the Smithsons carved out a unique architectural identity. They played a crucial role in the formation of Team 10, a group of designers who aimed to redefine architectural discourse, moving away from the rigid functionalism of the International Style.

The Smithsons’ innovative designs and unwavering commitment to challenging conventions have left an indelible mark on architectural history. As a woman practitioner, Alison Smithson paved her own way, while Peter Smithson’s steadfast support and collaboration underscored the importance of teamwork and partnership in the profession.

The Smithson House in Wiltshire. Photo: seier+seier

At Optima®, we take immense pride in honoring the work of Alison and Peter Smithson. Their unique partnership, innovative approach to design, and significant influence on architectural movements have contributed greatly to the field. By celebrating their collaboration, we aim to inspire future generations of architects to embrace diverse perspectives and partnerships in the pursuit of architectural excellence.

In the Shadows of Giants: The Overlooked Genius of Harry Weese

Posted on April 17, 2023 by Hunter

When we talk about the architectural giants of the Modern era, names like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe come to mind. These masters of design have left an indelible mark on our cities and towns, and their legacies continue to inspire and influence generations of architects. But what about those talented visionaries who have been overshadowed, whose work is often overlooked in the annals of architectural history? Today we’ll take a look at one such figure, Harry Weese, a brilliant architect who made a significant impact on the world of design, yet never quite garnered the same level of recognition as his contemporaries.

Harry Weese was born in 1915 in Evanston, Illinois. Even from a young age, he displayed a keen interest in architecture. His passion led him to study architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and later at the Cranbrook Academy of Art, where he formed lifelong friendships with renowned architects; Eero Saarinen, and Charles and Ray Eames. Despite this impressive educational background, Weese struggled to find his footing in the competitive world of architecture, but that didn’t stop him from garnering attention.

Seventeenth Church of Christ, Scientist. Photo: Chicagogeek ©

His career began to gain momentum in the 1950s, as he designed several noteworthy buildings in Chicago. One of the earliest examples of his work, the Seventeenth Church of Christ, Scientist, showcased his ability to blend functionality with aesthetics, while respecting the religious context of the building.

As the years passed, Weese gradually earned the respect of his peers and clients. He designed everything from public buildings and universities to private residences, each project showcasing his unique approach to architecture. His firm completed over 200 new buildings and renovations that span mostly across the midwest, but his commissions also took him across the globe to Ghana, India, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore.

Robert and Suzanne Drucker House by Harry Weese. Photo: Susan Benjamin

One of Weese’s most enchanting designs can be found in the idyllic town of Wilmette. Known as The Robert and Suzanne Drucker House, this private residence epitomizes Weese’s ability to harmoniously blend nature and architecture. The home features an open-plan layout, with large windows that invite the outdoors in, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior spaces. The Drucker House is a testament to Weese ‘s skill in crafting spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while respecting the environment and the needs of its occupants.

Harry Weese’s Chicago River Cottages. Photo: Alexandra Till

Beyond residential architecture, Weese made significant contributions to the field of urban planning and revitalization. He was deeply concerned about the decline of American cities and the loss of their architectural heritage. In the 1960s and 1970s, he embarked on several ambitious projects to preserve and reinvigorate urban spaces. One of his most notable accomplishments was the restoration of the Chicago Riverfront, transforming a previously neglected area into a vibrant, bustling hub of activity.

Washington, D.C. Metro System. Photo: Sara Cottle/Unsplash

Weese’s vision extended far beyond Chicago, as he also worked on the design of the Washington, D.C. Metro system. His innovative approach to public transportation and his commitment to creating aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly stations helped to shape the face of the nation’s capital and earned him widespread acclaim.

For those who have the privilege of experiencing Harry Weese’s work firsthand, the impact of his designs is undeniable. His creations have left a lasting mark on the communities they inhabit, and at Optima®, we’re proud to be a part of a shared sensibility and set of architectural traditions.

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Tag: modern design