10/05/2026
Happy World Architecture Day!
In college, Architectural History was one of the first classes we were required to take—actually, there were several of them—and I loved those classes! Architecture felt like the story told first; the cover of a wonderful book, if you will.
I’ve always been mesmerized by architecture, and even today I find myself scouting out details, unexpected elements, and creative visions from architects that inspire me and simply make me happy.
Today, I celebrate architecture and the commitment of architects to shaping our societies, ecosystems, and cities.
Here are a few of my favorites that have influenced my own style and love of design:
The Biltmore House will always be special to me. I grew up visiting it year after year. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, it was one of the places that made me fall in love with the grandeur and romance of French Renaissance château architecture.
The Chrysler Building, designed by William Van Alen, helped spark my lifelong love of Art Deco—still one of my favorite design movements.
The Louvre Pyramid and La Pyramide Inversée in Paris are favorites because of their striking juxtaposition against the historic Louvre. I’ve always thought it was such a bold and brilliant move by renowned architect I.M. Pei.
Then there is Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright, the beautifully minimalist Farnsworth House by Mies van der Rohe, and, of course, Notre-Dame de Paris, created and transformed over centuries through the work of remarkable master builders, architects, artisans, and craftsmen.
And last, but certainly not least, Art Nouveau. It reinforced something I’ve always carried into my own art and design work: you’re allowed to color outside the lines. Design can be imaginative, organic, whimsical, and even a little unexpected.
From Casa Batlló to the iconic Paris Métro entrances, these works continue to inspire me.
Happy World Architecture Day to the architects, artists, dreamers, builders, and visionaries who make the world around us a little more beautiful.
