PAYETTE + Metropolis Think Tank

Yesterday we had the privilege to host the Metropolis Think Tank series event at our PAYETTE office bringing together a group of local experts to discuss how architects can inspire a city with so many uniform structures. Specifically, the open dialogue explored our Northeastern University’s Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex project, and how it is breaking the mold of banal architecture in the city of Boston. 

Photo credit: PAYETTE, Image by Rashad Baniabbasi

Beyond Homogeneity – Boston’s Solution
Banal architecture plagues modern cities everywhere. In Boston the conversation surrounds the timidity of its recent architecture — uniform structures and the same glass box that dominates the skyline — regardless of climate, culture, material resources and specific needs. The new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Complex at Northeastern University breaks through this wave of homogenous architecture. We analyze the bold vision to rethink the university’s campus and the institution’s research agenda. How did this happen and why, in Boston, do we often see a lack of institutional courage to build something truly inspiring?

Panelists:
Michael R. Davis, FAIA, LEED AP, President, Bergmeyer Associates, Inc.
Wes Schwartz, AIA, Senior Associate, PAYETTE
Rachel Slade, Editor of Boston Magazine
Kathy Spiegelman, Vice President & Chief of Campus Planning and Development, Northeastern University
Kevin Sullivan, FAIA, President / CEO, PAYETTE

Moderated by:
Susan Szenasy, Publisher / Editor in chief, Metropolis Magazine