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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2026 Open Call - Rolling Admissions
The Independent Project Residency is one the few architecture-focused residency programs in the United States, and the only overnight arts program on Governors Island. Through a creative live-in residency framework situated in public space, the program invites practitioners across disciplines—whose work focuses on the public realm—to live and work during an eleven-week period at the Block House and encourages Fellows to collaborate across the Island.
Limited spots are available in the upcoming Summer and Fall Independent Project Residency Program. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until May 31, 2026.
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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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Special Screening - Story of the BQE
Thank you for joining us on Saturday March 21st for a special screening of The Story of the BQE at the Block House on Governors Island.
︎︎︎ See photos from the event
Projects
Programs
Learn about our Programs
Learn more about our Independent Project Residency and Selected Topic Fellowship programs, and related public lectures, exhibits and publications.
︎︎︎ Learn More