Rethinking Suburbia at April 23rd "Open House"

 There's been lots of discussion about the death of suburbia — especially in light of increased house forclosures and rising fuel prices. But the truth is, there is just too much of it to throw away. On Saturday, April 23rd The Netherlands-based design firm Droog and New York City architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro will lead a day-long event that takes a more positive spin by exploring the possibilities of adapting new and existing suburban-scapes for current and future middle class residents.


Called Open House, the day will begin with a morning symposium at Studio-X in the West Village. Moderated by Columbia University's Mark Wasiuta this half of the program will feature presentations by Renny Ramakers (co-founder and director of Droog), Charles Renfro (project lead designer and partner at Diller Scofidio + Renfro), Heleen Mees (author of New York service economy), Roo Rogers (co-author of

What's Mine is Yours), and artist Mary Ellen Carroll.



A bus trip to Levittown will follow at one o'clock. Here attendees can view and participate in nine house installations designed and executed by architects, designers, and artists in collaboration with the homeowners. Each will demonstrate a fresh perspective on life in the burbs for the 21st century — including shared services — food for thought...

Here are the details:

Symposium (no charge, RSVP required): 10:00 am to 12:45 pm

Studio-X
180 Varick Street, suite 1610, New York City

Bus Trip to Levittown, including lunch ($20, RSVP required): 1:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Public transportation: take the LIRR to Hicksville station where a shuttle bus will bring you to Levittown (no charge, no RSVP required)

For more information: www.openhouse2011.com