Reawakening: A Lecture by David Rau

Reawakening: A Lecture by David Rau

Hosted by the New Vitruvians, the emerging professionals of the ICAA New England Chapter

Architect David Rau will present “Reawakening,” a newly-expanded version of a brief TEDx Talk he first delivered at the TEDxRVA festival in Richmond, Virginia. This provocative and richly-illustrated presentation challenges current architectural theory dictating that new buildings must reflect the zeitgeist of their time, and then stakes out original territory vindicating Classical thought as a relevant - even vital - force in new contemporary architecture. The discussion hinges on the conventional notions of the future, where today’s culture might suggest an ever-accelerating advance toward modernity (based in part in 1920s Italian Futurism, but also postwar industrialization and popular culture, and the present ongoing technological revolution). By contrast, a review of the historic trajectory of architecture - and specifically the course of traditional building throughout the ages – reveals cyclical revivals of Classicism (or “recalls”), generally transmuted through the lens of new cultural imperatives, as can be seen in the birth of the Italian Renaissance, for instance. In charting a path forward, the talk concludes with a new vision of a sustainable, “whole architecture,” at once in sync with today’s millennial culture and American ideals of individualism and happiness, while also expressive of the ancient purposes of Classicism.

DAVID RAU, AIA

Hart Howerton, Principal

David is an architect whose unique, collaborative approach has attracted a diverse clientele that relies on his ability to bring together ownership, executive teams, and other stakeholders, while leading large, complex assignments worldwide for destination resorts, residential communities, cultural centers and urban infill developments. Recent work includes two new U.S. locations for Hyatt’s luxury Miraval resort brand, as well as expansion of the Chatham Bars Inn on Cape Cod, the repositioning of Harbour Town at Hilton Head Island and the new Outrigger Reef Hotel in Oahu, Hawaii. Prior work includes a private yacht club on Gibson Island in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay; a new Canyon Ranch SpaClub at The Homestead resort in Virginia; and the repositioning of the iconic Grove Park Inn at Asheville. David’s international work includes The Belfry resort outside Birmingham, UK and a new residential community along the Mediterranean coast of North Africa. A frequent lecturer, David recently led a panel on absolution through architecture at Congress for New Urbanism’s 26th congress and has delivered TED Talks as part of a regional TEDx event. He serves on the editorial board of The Classist, the national journal of the Institute for Classical Architecture & Art. His buildings and interiors have been widely published, in print and online and most recently, his work for Quirk Hotel in downtown Richmond, Virginia received widespread recognition, including in Condé Nast Traveler as one of the “Best New Hotels and Resorts in the World.”

This event is hosted by an ICAA Chapter. Please check the Chapter website or contact the Chapter directly, for the most up-to-date details including dates, times, and pricing.

Learning Objectives

• Outline the historic path of Modernism and contemporary architecture, and the place of Classicism within this context.
• Identify cultural shifts taking place today and pointing toward a resurgence of traditionalism and contextualism, rather than a continuation of abstract modernist thought.
• Explain the concept of “whole architecture,” including its key principal tenets.
• Discuss the relevance of traditional building and Classical architecture in the context of today’s cultural trends.

AIA Provider Information

Please click here for additional AIA Continuing Education Provider Information:

Instructional Delivery Method: Live Online Learning Program

Program Level: Introductory

Prerequisites: None required

AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: April 27, 2024

Provider Number: G193

Provider Statement: The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number G193. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).

This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.

AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.