ARCHITECTURE – FALL 2026 VIDEOS

Coordinators: Victor Brener, Debbi Honorof

Discover the captivating world of architecture and its historical, cultural, and environmental impact on our society.

(Monday, B Week, PM, Room 15-17, V. Brener)

To view a video click on the link above its description.

ARCHITECTURE: HISTORY, DESIGN AND PRACTICE
James Renwick, Jr., 19th Century Architect Extraordinaire!

Presenter: Glenn Johnston, Sandy Frank
Presentation Date: September 14, 2026

James Renwick Jr., the architect extraordinaire, was one of the most successful, prolific, and versatile American architects in the latter half of the 1800s. He designed high-profile buildings such as the Smithsonian “Castle” and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. His great success was especially noteworthy given that he was a hobbyist with no formal architectural training, nor did he need to work to support himself. Yet, he rose to the top of his field on the strength of his engineering background, historical knowledge, and artistic flair.

Renwick’s illustrious career was not limited to his bold designs for churches, museums, and civic institutions. Fortunately for us, many of his designs are a prominent part of our NYC architecture, especially in Greenwich Village. Join us as we explore this highly accomplished architect and his work, who the Encyclopedia of American Architecture calls “one of the most successful American architects of his time.”

ARCHITECTURE: HISTORY, DESIGN AND PRACTICE
Green and Sustainable Architecture

Presenter: Bob Reiss
Presentation Date: September 28, 2026

Green architecture is a design and construction philosophy that reduces a building’s environmental impact and uses resources efficiently across its entire lifecycle. Its principles include energy efficiency techniques such as natural ventilation, strong insulation and renewable power systems. For materials, architects can choose local, recycled, or renewable options. Water conservation can offer rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and low-flow plumbing fixtures. Indoor spaces use non-toxic, low-emission materials to protect the health and comfort of people inside. Other features include green roofs, living walls, or native landscaping to support local biodiversity. We will discuss many of these methods and include copious examples.

ARCHITECTURE: HISTORY, DESIGN AND PRACTICE
Percival Goodman and Synagogue Architecture

Presenter: Paul Golomb
Presentation Date: October 26, 2026

There is no definitive architectural style for a synagogue. Percival Goodman (1904-89), however, designed over 70 synagogues, thus having the greatest impact on Synagogue architecture in the United States. In a fashion similar to Frank Lloyd Wright, he took interest in the totality of synagogue design, both interior and exterior. Also, like Wright, he knew how to work within budget, creating distinctive structures even with modest means.

ARCHITECTURE: HISTORY, DESIGN AND PRACTICE
Adding Light to Architecture: Louis Kahn

Presenter: Sandy Gordon
Presentation Date: November 9, 2026

In architecture, as in the arts, creativity in design is influenced by the concepts of those who “came before,” as well as peers. Louis Kahn was one of those who “came before” and influenced future architects. His was the architectural design of the 20th century that preceded the Pritzker Prize. Kahn was the master of the monumental structure, always emphasizing light, permanence, and an aura of peace. As an international architect, Kahn had the reputation of always considering the unique cultures involved in his design of foreign projects, further enhancing his stature. We will travel to India with Louis to enjoy and gain insight into his approach with a master project, as well examining those here in the United States.