Studio Gang

Jeanne Gang's architecture thoughtfully connects people, communities, and the environment. Her international architecture and urban planning firm, Studio Gang—with offices in Chicago, New York City, San Francisco, and Paris—frequently focuses on 20th-century buildings. Starting with an examination of existing structures, it uncovers hidden potential and transforms it into contemporary extensions through a formal language that is both expressive and subtle. For this approach, Jeanne Gang has been named AW Architect of the Year 2025. The exhibition at Aedes features six current projects—including the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts in Little Rock, the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation in New York City, and the University of Chicago John W. Boyer Center in Paris. They illustrate Gang's concept of "architectural grafting," inspired by the gardening technique of grafting: old and new are sensitively connected to grow and flourish together.

Building on the American architect's book of the same name, The Art of Architectural Grafting explores her concept of revitalizing existing buildings through strategic extensions and bold design – with the goal of increasing their usable capacity and reducing their carbon footprint.

The horticultural practice of grafting joins two plants – one old and one new – so they can continue to grow and thrive together. This centuries-old practice is still practiced today in the search for more fertile, tastier, and more resilient plant varieties. Gang's concept of architectural grafting applies this sensibility and principles to design at various scales. Instead of demolition and new construction, this approach focuses on transforming and expanding existing structures, thereby preserving both historical substance and resources.

Opening: 11.7.2025, 6:30 pm