Grady Durham Monticello Associates's Publications

• How to Appreciate Architecture March, 2011 by Grady Durham The world abounds with interesting and historically significant architecture, but many of us pass it by without a second glance. If you desire an impromptu education in architecture appreciation, keep the following advice in mind. 1. Understand the definition of architecture In the broadest sense of the word, architecture is the construction of some building or structure. Go deeper and you will discover that architecture extends to the creation of buildings, open areas, and entire communities, with a particular emphasis on aesthetics. Therefore, when you study any architecture, remember that the architect built his or her creation with the intent of evoking some sort of emotion from the audience. 2. Consider your taste compared to others’ You like mustard, but your significant other does not. You prefer rock-and-roll, while your parents opt for jazz. Just like anything else, personal preference plays an important role in architecture. Any structure, whether modern or ancient, was designed with the thoughts and motivations of its particular era in mind. In that light, you can view any single building or area as a monument to the time in which it was created. What was posh then might not be as effective now, although many builders endeavor to update architecture in the interest of keeping it relevant. But ask yourself on a case-by-case basis: is that for the best? 3. Connect with architecture Look up a picture of a famous architectural work. At first glance, what do you see? Each piece of the architecture was chosen to contribute something to the body of work. Study the materials used in each piece, as well as smaller details, such as where the materials came from, the shape of the work, and so forth. Does any particular piece, material, or detail resonate with you? Try to understand the individual pieces before examining the whole.

• Monticello Associates, Inc.: History and Architecture of the Denver Art Museum , Monticello Associates' Blog on Bigsight September, 2011 Tracing its roots back to the 1890s, the Denver Art Museum existed in temporary locations until opening a permanent gallery at its present site in 1949. Over the last 60 years, the private nonprofit added a children’s art center and two other expansions until achieving its current 356,000-square-foot facility, which includes gallery space, an auditorium, and 3 temporary exhibition rooms. Today, the Denver Art Museum boasts international fame as both a collector of rare and fine arts and a family friendly educational environment. sculpture “1.26” suspends from the roof of the 7-story Denver Art Museum … posted by transform-mag.com For fans of architecture, the Denver Art Museum offers the added bonus of operating in two uniquely style structures: the Frederic C. Hamilton Building and the North Building. With its jutting angles and Cubist-like exterior, the recently completed Hamilton Building designed by architect Daniel Libeskind brings to mind Colorado’s projecting mountain peaks and landscapes. The older North Building, designed by influential Italian architect Giò Ponti and the local firm James Sudler Associates, features reflective glass tile outer walls and a castle-like façade.

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