Institute for Public Architecture
The IPA, based in the historic Block House on Governors Island, uses design to address social, physical and environmental inequities in the city through our signature Selected Topic Fellowship and Independent Project Residency programs, and related public lectures, exhibits, and publications.
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BQE Screening at PAVE on May 19
On May 19th we held a screening of The Story of the BQE documentary at PAVE Academy Charter School’s cool gymnasium on the hottest day of 2026 so far.
A lively discussion moderated by Karen Blondel (President, Red Hook West Residents Association and Executive Director, Public Housing Civic Association) with Thaddeus Pawlowksi (Director of the Center for Resilient Cities and Landscapes at Columbia University GSAPP and IPA Fellow) and Marcus Wilford (Architect and IPA Fellow) followed the screening. With Marcus’ ‘frugal exuberance’, Karen’s ‘creative pragmatism’, and Thaddeus’ visionary ‘conveyor belt’ highway, the conversation established new frameworks for reimagining the future of transportation in NYC waterfront neighborhoods like Red Hook.
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Open Call Extension: Fall Residency Spots Available
Apply by June 15th for limited availability in the upcoming Fall Residency at the Block House! Applications will close by June 15th or when spots are filled.
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Earth Day at the Block House
A two-part program held on April 18th featuring screenings of The Story of the BQE documentary and a Fellows Talk by architect Sine Lindholm.
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Learn about our Programs
Learn more about our Independent Project Residency and Selected Topic Fellowship programs, and related public lectures, exhibits and publications.
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