Wrapping Up Season 3 of America ByDesign: Architecture
SEASON 3 HIGHLIGHTS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY
Season 3 of America ByDesign: Architecture was filled with projects that showed the power of design to shape lives and communities. From stadiums and theaters to libraries and private homes, each stop offered a unique perspective on how architecture can inspire, protect, and connect.
“Season 3 of America ByDesign reminded me how diverse and powerful design can be. Each project told a different story, but all showed how architecture shapes lives.”
A GRAND START AT TQL STADIUM
The season opened in Cincinnati at TQL Stadium with Populous. Co-presenting with executive producer Mike Chapman made it even more meaningful. That project embodied everything the series celebrates—design at scale that brings people together in ways that feel larger than life. From there, the journey spanned the country, showcasing diverse projects and the people behind them.
DESIGN FOR RESILIENCE IN FIRE COUNTRY BY STUDIO VARA
In Northern California, Studio Vara presented the Fire Country Lookout. This striking residence was designed for both beauty and resilience. The architecture addressed the realities of wildfire risk while creating a home that feels safe, connected, and inspiring.
It was a clear example of how architecture can serve multiple roles—offering protection while respecting the landscape and elevating everyday life.
CREATIVITY AND WORKPLACE DESIGN IN LOS ANGELES
The season then moved to Los Angeles, where we visited the personal residence of Clive Wilkinson. Known for his influence on workplace design, it was fascinating to see how he approached his own home. The design layered creativity, play, and personality into a space that was both personal and experimental.
INTUIT’S SPECTACULAR HQ IN SILICON VALLEY
Clive Wilkinson Architects also designed one of the season’s most ambitious projects: Intuit’s headquarters in Silicon Valley. This campus goes far beyond the idea of a traditional office. Light-filled, human-scaled, and warm, it redefines workplace culture. The use of natural materials, including Shinnoki prefinished wood panels, gave the interiors a tactile quality that feels both collaborative and forward-looking.
THE ICONIC CHRYSLER BUILDING INSPIRES A GORGEOUS OFFICE DESIGN
Back in New York City, the series explored two iconic locations. Ted Moudis Associates reimagined office space inside the Chrysler Building, one of the most recognizable towers in the world. That visit was especially meaningful because so many partners in the firm are long-time industry friends.
THE LEGENDARY PALACE THEATER REIMAGINED
Nearby, the legendary Palace Theatre dazzled after its careful restoration. Preservationists at PBDW and theater specialists at Mancini Duffy collaborated to give new life to a cultural landmark. The result balanced historic character with modern performance requirements.
HOSPITALITY WITH PERSONALITY
Not every project featured this season was monumental in scale, but each had character and purpose. In Atlanta, Office of Design created Tacos and Tequila, a vibrant restaurant full of playfulness and energy. It showed how hospitality design can reflect culture while remaining inclusive and approachable.
DANCE, EDUCATION, AND BEAUTIFUL DESIGN AT CHAPMAN UNIVERSITY
In Orange County, California, the Sandi Simon Center for Dance at Chapman University brought one of the most moving experiences of the season. Designed by Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects, the building came to life as students performed in its spaces. Seeing design activated by performance left a lasting impression.
REFLECTING ON A SEASON OF DESIGN
Looking back, the diversity of projects says everything about design in America today. A stadium, a headquarters, a theater, a library, a residence, a restaurant, and a school for dance—all unique, yet all rooted in the belief that design can transform how we live.
The season was also a reminder of the relationships behind the work. Architects and designers across the country shared their projects, processes, and perspectives on why design matters. For me, it was a privilege to witness that range of creativity and commitment.
Season 2 may be complete, but the design conversation is far from finished. In fact, it is only gaining momentum.
“What I loved about Season 3 was seeing design in so many forms—from stadiums to schools of dance—each proving how much impact thoughtful architecture has.”
