On the Bright Side: Optimistic American Architecture

On the Bright Side: Optimistic American Architecture
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In Design We Trust
In Design We Trust
Despite an ugly and exhausting election, our annual American design issue reminds us that thoughtful, beautiful, and affirming work is still possible.
By William Hanley - 22 days ago
The Winding Road of American Gas Station Design
Call it an architectural joyride: For more than a century, the roadside icons have mapped the country’s ever-evolving landscape, reflecting shifting tastes and new technologies.
Meet the New American Design Capitals
From Helena to San Juan, these design scenes show that—in spite of homogenizing trends—regional style is still flourishing around the country.
Lauren Halsey Is Building an Ode to South Central Los Angeles
The renowned artist returns to her hometown to create a public sculpture park for the community that raised her.
The Stained-Glass Windows of a Dated Brooklyn Brownstone Inspire Its Colorful Renovation
Many of the home’s neglected features like parquet floors and Victorian molding were salvaged, but its original layout was cleverly tweaked to better fit the needs of its...
An 11-Year-Old Angeleno Turns His Family’s Yard Into a Graywater Garden
Native California plants abound in this tiny oasis designed to maximize diversity.
Budget Breakdown: A 1960s A-Frame Gets a $558K Refresh—and Historic Landmark Status
Instead of tearing down the fixer-upper, a realtor with a passion for swimming and her wife worked with their architect friend to restore a modest Manhattan Beach midcentury near...
The Transformation of Cheyenne, Wyoming
My hometown has always been mostly white and defined by conservative, cowboy values. Now, gentrification has made it unaffordable—but it’s also brought much-needed diversity.
A “Farm-to-Shelter” Home Asks: Why Can’t Architects Make Buildings the Way Chefs Approach Food?
To craft a Washington, D.C., alley house for himself and his horticulturist wife, an architect opted for a menu of renewable, plant-based materials.
In Santa Cruz, a Site Steeped in Lore Gets a New Neighbor That Incorporates Its Eccentricities
The Court of Mysteries features a 30-foot obelisk, a handcrafted brick-and-abalone gate, a temple-like structure with cryptic symbols, and now a tasteful family home.
This Polychrome New Orleans Home Expands the Notion of “Family” Living
Neighbors call it the circus house, but its triptych of connected spaces do more than just put on a show—they accommodate a lively cast of friends, lovers, and collaborators.
What to Do With a Building That Has a Traumatic Past?
The United States is dotted with abandoned boarding schools that tried to erase Native American culture.
Well-Designed Low-Income Housing Is Possible
As a tax credit that makes it easier to build affordable developments faces legislative resistance, architects are showing that they don’t have to skimp on aesthetics.
The Unusual Antique Shop Object That Inspired a Designer Couple
The duo behind the Seattle studio Fruitsuper discuss the vintage pecan picker-upper they keep on their shelves alongside other utilitarian items they consider “unsung heroes.”
Shining Examples
These exceptionally luminous dwellings are the winners and honorees of our 2024 Andersen Bright Ideas Awards.
Elevated Style
A floating staircase seems to gently fall out of the ceiling, creating a dramatic entryway in this Hamptons home.
Designing Wellness
This resort-style family home is a celebration of indoor/outdoor living.
Lighting the Way
A new collection of rechargeable lamps by Kelly Wearstler for Visual Comfort & Co. offers more levels of freedom in lighting.