Atelier 2025 | April 7-11

Early in our history, in 1975, the School of Architecture and Planning began hosting an annual Beaux-Arts Ball, a tradition that continues today at many U.S. architecture schools. French for “school of fine arts,” École des Beaux-Arts refers to a number of influential art schools in France. The oldest, and arguably most famous, of these schools — the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts, in Paris — has a history of training artists and architects in Europe. As the namesake for the Beaux Arts architectural movement of the early twentieth century, it seems fitting that architecture schools honor this influential piece of history with a long-standing tradition of hosting their own costume balls.  

In 1988, this annual tradition evolved even further, into what is now known as Atelier Week. Held annually in the spring semester, this weeklong celebration allows us to open our doors to the community in celebration of the people, ideas, projects, and values that make us who we are. Atelier Week frontlines the work of our students and faculty, showcases the studio culture, and expresses the process of discovery across our programs.

After a kickoff ceremony, where historically the entire school gathers for a group photo (taken by drone) outside of Hayes Hall, we hold Pecha Kucha (PK) Night. Stemming from the Japanese word for “talking,” Pecha Kucha is a presentation of 20 images with 20 seconds of commentary each. This student-organized evening of storytelling is a light-hearted, engaging way for students, faculty, and staff to share personal presentations about their work or other topics.

As a nod to the translation of the French word “atelier,” meaning “workshop” in English, our signature event during Atelier Week is Open Studio— an exhibition held across our three facilities, Hayes, Crosby, and Parker Halls. This event is open to the public, featuring work-in-progress from our studios as well as faculty research and projects in the community. Open Studio is a vibrant celebration, and a living gallery, of the creative and collaborative efforts behind student and faculty work.

Prior to the renovation of Hayes Hall in 2016 and Crosby Hall in 2023, Open Studio was especially important. Although these facilities are now dynamic learning environments, with an open layout and gallery spaces, prior to the renovation this was not the case. Open Studio served as an invitation for faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the public to literally open the doors to the incredible work being done at our School.