New Hampshire: the Architectural Hidden Gems
New Hampshire:
the Architectural Hidden Gems
New Hampshire, also known as the Granite State, is a treasure trove of cultural attractions and rich history. From landmarks to museums and parks, the state has something to offer everyone. But what makes New Hampshire really stand out is the presence of several iconic structures designed by legendary architects. The Toufic H. Kalil House, the Zimmerman House, and the Exeter Library are among the distinguished structures crafted by Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Kahn during the same era. These structures are a testament to the state's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage.
The Zimmerman House, a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright, is an architectural wonder that showcases Asian art and design influences. This stunning home was built in the 1950s in Manchester, New Hampshire, and it is one of only two homes designed by Wright in the state. The Prairie Style architecture is distinctive, and it is one of the Seven Gems of Wright's Usonian Period. You don't want to miss the opportunity to see this exquisite abode!
The Toufic H. Kalil house is a true marvel of history. It is a house museum that was meticulously crafted in 1955 and is located in the same neighborhood as the renowned Zimmerman House. This architectural masterpiece is an exemplary representation of the Usonian Automatic style. Frank Lloyd Wright envisioned this home as a cost effective dwelling during the post-war era, and it has since become a timeless gem that should not be missed.
Louis Kahn's Exeter Academy Library is a breathtaking example of modernist architecture. Designed and built by the renowned American architect in the mid-1960s, the library's simple yet sophisticated design, abundant use of natural light, and meticulous attention to detail make it a true masterpiece. Its unique features and elements give it an aura of timeless elegance that continues to inspire architects and designers to this day. The Exeter Academy Library is a must-see destination for anyone who appreciates the art of architecture and design, and a testament to Louis Kahn's genius.
The three designs all share a remarkable quality - they ingeniously employ geometric shapes and forms to invite natural light into the structures. It is truly inspiring to see how these designs artfully capture and play with sunlight, creating an atmosphere that feels both warm and inviting.
Want to learn more? Check out the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation website, the Louis Kahn website, or this PDF about Louis Kahn. Or plan a visit to New Hampshire!
Designer Monologues the Podcast from IIDA New England with your host Katie Corcoran Garcia is officially LIVE!! On this show, we’ll share the stories behind the design of repurposing, developing and reshaping our communities. Incubated from the minds and skills of New England’s talented design community, you’ll hear how visual inspiration can come from nature, our history, current trends and more as we take you on a story-telling journey behind design.
Check out our latest episode here.
Stay tuned for the next President's Message!
Be sure to check in with the IIDA New England calendar for upcoming events (both virtual and in-person) offered in our community. Here's a sneak peek at some upcoming events:
IIDA NE Sustainability: Learn & Contribute // Wednesday, May 15 *IN PERSON (in VT)
IIDA NE Charity on the Charles Kayaking Fundraiser // Wednesday, June 5 *IN PERSON
IIDA NE 2024 Annual Meeting & Volunteer Celebration // Tuesday, June 18 *(save the date)
IIDA NE Block Party // Thursday, July 25 *(save the date)
IIDA NE 21st Annual Croquet Tournament // Thursday, August 8 *(save the date)
IIDA NE 17th Annual Design Awards // Thursday, September 12 *(save the date)
IIDA NE 26th Annual Fashion Show // Thursday, November 7 *(save the date)
Also, be sure to keep an eye on our IIDA New England job postings, which are updated regularly!
Check out the list of IIDA New England Emerging Leaders Network (ELN) Class of 2023 and the Leadership Exploration & Development (LEAD) Class of 2023!
Do you have an idea that you would like to share with the design community or see highlighted here in The Wire? Share your ideas here.
Company Name: Matter Surfaces
Company Establishment Date: 1971
Company Description: Matter Surfaces was founded in 1971 as Mats Inc., a family-owned company selling entrance mats throughout the Greater Boston area. Founders Bob and Catherine Schiffmann spent the next decade building a vast portfolio of entrance solutions and strong vendor and client relationships. As the company continued to grow, Bob and Catherine’s 3 sons joined the business. Together, John, Richard and Paul opened additional warehouses and expanded the sales team across the country while diversifying their product portfolio. In the early 90s, they introduced contract flooring products – known today as the Formative Collection. Throughout the 80s and 90s, the company focused on building the world-class service organization and unmatched global planning and logistics team for which they’re known today. In 2004, they partnered with award-winning, European design house Bolon; in 2014, with PURLINE; and in 2021, with Parador Modular ONE.
Company Mission Statement: We are Matter Surfaces – an old friend with a new name. We’re your partner for design flooring and entrance systems. We believe in the power of Good Design. Thoughtful Good Design beautifies the world, enhances our health, and protects the environment.
Company Products / Services: Matter Surfaces provides the North American market with exclusive design, entryway, fitness, and resilient flooring solutions.
Our Brands:
Bolon woven design flooring (www.bolon.com)
Parador Modular ONE super natural flooring (https://mattersurfaces.com/parador-modular-one)
PURLINE bio-polyurethane based flooring (https://mattersurfaces.com/purline)
Arrival entrance systems and matting (https://mattersurfaces.com/collections/arrival-collection)
Our Collections:
Formative Collection resilient flooring (https://mattersurfaces.com/collections/formative-collection)
Play Collection sports and fitness flooring (https://mattersurfaces.com/collections/play-collection)
New England Locations: 179 Campanelli Parkway, Stoughton, MA 02072 (Matter Surfaces Corporate Headquarters)
New England Contacts: David Cassady, Regional Sales Manager, Architectural Solutions, dcassady@mattersurfaces.com
Question: What is the best part of being an IIDA NE Chapter Sponsor?
The best part of being a chapter sponsor is the feeling of community.
I say this because membership and sponsorship allowed me to network with like-minded people in the as built community. With the IIDA involvement, I think the rebranding went rather smoothly from Mats Inc to Matter Surfaces. Everyone has grasped the rebranding much better (and quicker than other parts of the Country). Why, because IIDA-NE is a family all looking out for the well-being of our community without any expectation of strings attached. As a group, we are always looking at helping each other out to succeed.
I remember the day Matt Hyatt asked, “why are you not a member of IIDA?” and this led to being asked if I would be interested on being on a committee and other various volunteer opportunities.
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