Built by Women New York City exhibition opens

New York — The Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation (BWAF) announced the Built by Women New York City exhibition at the Center for Architecture. The exhibition opened earlier this month in honor of Women’s History Month with the support of the AIANY Women in Architecture committee, and will remain open until April 11, 2015. Admission is free to the public.

Built by Women is a social and educational initiative, celebrating women’s contributions to the built environment and inspiring girls to pursue STEM careers, specifically in architecture, engineering and construction. Last fall, BWAF launched a public competition, Built by Women New York City (BxW NYC; https://bwaf.org/bxwnyc), to identify structures and environments led by women working in architecture, landscape, engineering, and construction. 98 diverse sites built, engineered or constructed by women that reflect strong design, have historical or cultural significance, or have substantial social or community impact were selected by a jury representing the architectural, engineering and construction professions.

With over 350 unique nominations, the distinguished jury had a rich pool from which to select 100 sites. The impact of women on the built environment and the spaces we experience everyday can be seen and experienced in all five boroughs and in very diverse environments. The jury’s selection included transportation hubs, theaters, recycling centers, parks, community gardens, health care systems, a new police training academy, emergency services and stunning restaurants–these sites and facilities were designed, led and managed by women of all ages, making their mark on the city built environment and affecting our daily lives.

This competition is just the beginning of activities to shine light on women and their impact on life in the city of New York for residents and tourists, alike. Walking and audio tours will be rolled out in 2015 as well as panel discussions and pop-up events at some of the winning sites. All nominated sites will be recognized on a map and listed on a BxW website, under development, moving forward.

The BxW NYC jury was composed of professionals in architecture, landscape, engineering and construction, including: Deborah Berke, FAIA; Joan Blumenfeld, FAIA; Aine Brazil, P.E.; Fiona Cousins, P.E.; Cheryl McKissack Daniel; Andrea Leers, FAIA; Audrey Matlock, FAIA; and Laura Starr, ASLA. The jury was advised by Andrew Dolkart, Director of the Historic Preservation Program and Professor of Historic Preservation, Columbia University.