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School of Architecture Faculty Members Peter Weiderspahn, David Fannon and Michelle Laboy have curated an exhibition entitled “Persistence: Evolving Architecture in a Changing World,” which is currently on view at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

The exhibit introduces their  research on architectural design that simultaneously endures and evolves with natural and cultural changes over time. Crucial to persistent architecture is the design of buildings that last for generations while continuously adapting to shifting needs. This exhibition argues for robust, sustainable, and resilient architecture that remains useful and valued despite the ever-changing world.

The trio also released a book earlier this fall entitled “The Architecture of Persistence: Designing for Future Use.” A result of their 2017-2019 Latrobe Prize-winning research, the book examines material longevity in the face of constant physical and cultural change, connects the dimensions of human use and contemporary program, and discusses how time informs the design process.

The Architecture of Persistence argues that continued human use is the ultimate measure of sustainability in architecture, and that expanding the discourse about adaptability to include continuity as well as change offers the architectural manifestation of resilience.

The exhibit is on view at the

DESIGN BUILDING GALLERY
University of Massachusetts
John W Olver Design Building #180
551 North Pleasant Street
Amherst MA

October 12-November 4, 2021

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