The 11th annual Docomomo US National Symposium takes place May 29–June 1, in Miami and Coral Gables, Florida. It is THE primary event in the United States for professionals and enthusiasts to discuss and share efforts to preserve Modern architecture, but just in case you still need some additional persuasion, here are five great reasons why Miami is not to be missed!
Can't make it for the entire event? A limited number of reduced price a la carte tickets are available - only register for the specific events you want to attend.
One of Marion Manley's buildings – a group of classrooms connected by a breezeway.
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Photo credit: University of Miami, Coral Gables FL, 1948. Architect: Marion Manley; photographed by Ezra Stoller/Esto.
1. Marion Manley
The first registered female architect in South Florida, Marion Manley, along with Robert Law Weed, designed a post-war masterplan for the University of Miami’s Coral Gables campus; Manley also designed the University’s six original School of Architecture buildings. She was progressive in her approach to architecture and an active member of both civic and professional organizations. Her commissions also included work on Miami's U.S. Post Office and Federal Building in the 1930s, the University of Miami's Ring Theater and several houses in the Tropical Modern style.
OK, not this boat, we’re going on a tour boat. It seats 30 and has a restroom and a cover overhead to shield passengers from the elements, and it’s taking us to Miami Marine Stadium, which was designed in the 1960s by Cuban-American architect Hilario Candela as a venue to host powerboat races (see above boat). Tours sell out quickly, so be sure to book as soon as possible.
Arquitectonica’s iconic architecture had a supporting role in TV series Miami Vice, which ran from 1984–1989 on NBC. The Atlantis appeared in the show’s opening credits, and the firm’s Pink House also appeared in several episodes. Registered Symposium attendees have the opportunity to go inside the Atlantis by signing up for a tour to the heart of the Magic City. x
Alfred Browning Parker at the Parker House (under construction) in Miami
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Ezra Stoller/ESTO
4. Alfred Browning Parker
South Florida is home to a distinct form of local modernism pioneered by Architect Alfred Browning Parker. Establishing his practice in the 1940s, Parker gained international attention by incorporating South Florida's unique geology into Modernist architecture and, at times, through the hands of his own personal craftsmanship. Registered attendees can sign-up for a tour of four of the most-intact Parker homes still standing as well as a special evening at Woodsong. Yeah, we’d swipe right.
Rooftop pool at the Mayfair House Hotel & Garden
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Mayfair House Hotel & Garden
5. Networking poolside
Feel the breeze, take a dip, and be sure to blur your Zoom background. The Mayfair House Hotel & Garden in Miami’s vibrant Coconut Grove neighborhood is the Symposium’s preferred hotel partner, and attendees enjoy a special rate. The hotel first opened in 1985, and reopened September 2022 in after a transformation that embraces original architect Kenneth Treister’s signature work. No two rooms are exactly alike.
