The Van Alen Institute, an organization dedicated to advancing innovation in architecture and urban design, has announced the launch of an International Council of leading architects, planners and designers who will meet bi-annually to "identify and investigate issues facing cities internationally." The thirteen firms chosen — who represent over 17 cities and 10 countries— include firms as renowned as Aedas, BIG, and Jan Gehl Architects. See all 13, after the break.
The participating firms are: Aedas (Hong Kong, London, Dubai, among others); Allied Works Architecture (Portland, NYC); BIG (NYC, Copenhagen, Beijing); Jan Gehl Architects (Copenhagen, San Francisco, NYC), joining fall 2014; LAVA (Berlin, Stuttgart, Sydney, among others); Olson Kundig Architects (Seattle); Pei Cobb Freed & Partners (NYC); Snohetta (NYC, Oslo); Studio Egret West (London); White Arkitekter (Malmö, London, Stockholm, among others); Windgardhs (Göteborg, Stockholm, Malmö); 3XN (Copenhagen); and 5468796 Architecture (Winnipeg).
Beyond advancing new conversations in the field of design, the newly-formed council, which first met this month in Venice during the Biennale, will meet bi-annually to develop the upcoming multi-year initiatives that guide the Van Alen Institute’s work. Fall meetings will take place in New York City and spring meetings will be held in other cities around the world.
More information available here.
