On Wednesday, June 26th, SOM hosted a group of 17 third- through fifth-grade students from the Center for Architecture’s Skyscrapers Summer Program in the New York office. Multiple SOM staff members participated in the tour. Managing Partner Kenneth Lewis described SOM’s work at 35 Hudson Yards and the Time Warner Center; Associate Director Neil Katz shared examples of developing technologies at SOM and explained how architects and engineers can look to nature for inspiration in structural form; and architectural designer Grete Grubelich walked the students through the fundamentals of skyscraper design.
Additionally, the students visited the model shop, where they learned about model making, 3D printers, and laser cutting, and the materials library, where they each got to pick out a sample to take home.
The Center for Architecture is a leading cultural venue for architecture and the built environment in New York City, informed by the complexity of the city’s urban fabric and in dialogue with the global community. The K-12 educational program promotes public understanding and appreciation of architecture and design through educational programs for students and teachers, families, and the general public.