• Robert Stern, a leader in traditional architecture and urbanism

    Stern challenged a modernist establishment in the 1970s and 1980s, building a solid portfolio of work that would firmly establish the idea of ‘modern traditionalism.’
    Robert A.M. Stern, who was highly influential in the movement to restore urbanism to America, died Thanksgiving Day at the age of 86. Stern was one of only 20 winners of the Athena Medal, given by CNU to those who have “cast a lasting and enduring influence on the practice and thought of New...Read more

  • The hidden suburban logic behind America’s products

    How suburban life quietly redefined everything we buy, use, and throw away.
    I recently moved apartments within the same urban neighborhood. We had to hire someone to junk our 6-year-old couch, as large items that cannot be dismantled need special disposal. It was not broken, the frame was fine but the cushions were worn and not designed to be replaced. I searched for a...Read more

  • The world after campus

    I refuse to accept my best days of walkability were in college.
    Having just graduated from college this past week, one thing has struck me again and again in conversations with my graduating peers. When they talk about what they’ll miss about college after graduating, they reveal that they will miss the way of life on-campus – how there’s always something to do...Read more

  • Let's build age-friendly communities

    America is aging. Let's make places worth aging in.
    As an urban advocate in Northwest Arkansas, I have lots of conversations with local residents. When talking with retirees, the same themes surface regarding their desired retirement environment: affordability, low maintenance, convenient amenities, and accessible transportation. Regrettably, a lack...Read more