Archinect - Features

The Origin Story of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

2019-10-01T13:52:00-04:00

Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill are three names hardly unrecognizable. Still one of America’s largest architecture practices and pioneers of the modern skyscraper, but how did it get its start? Better yet, who is Skidmore? And who is Owings? How about Merrill? And how did the three meet? What is the story behind one of America’s most important practices? It is a story few have told and even fewer know, one filled with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises.

It Could Have Been Called SOB: Gordon Bunshaft and SOM

2018-09-07T13:23:00-04:00

From the Ground Up is a series on Archinect focused on discovering the early stages & signs of history's most prolific architects. Starting from the beginning allows us to understand the long journey architecture takes in even the formative of hands and often, surprising shifts that occur in its journey. These early projects grant us a glimpse into the early, naive, ambitious and at points rough edges of soon to be architectural masters.

In this installment we look at the work of Gordon Bunschaft, a seminal member at SOM for over 40 years.

SOM Partner Carrie Byles explains why “enthusiasm is more important than experience” when hiring new employees

2018-07-03T11:30:00-04:00

Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill has carried out their pioneering spirit since the firm was established over 80 years ago — from developing Architectural Engineering Systems and building record-breaking skyscrapers worldwide, to their multiple AIA Twenty-Five Year Awards and their “Year One” initiative that fosters new talent.

As one of the most established architecture firms out there, what does SOM expect from job applicants when it's time to hire new employees? In Archinect's latest “How To Get A Job At ____”, SOM Partner Carrie Byles got in touch with us to share some tips — including the most common mistake applicants make (the answer is simpler than you think) — and a glimpse into the firm's office culture.

Art Basel comes to Hong Kong

2013-05-30T15:20:00-04:00

During the yearly art fair in Basel, Switzerland, the city is activated and reconfigured, and art is brought to the forefront of civic discourse. What, if any, impact could the fair have on daily life in a city of 7 million? How would this art world mega-event translate to the Hong Kong context?