back	August 22, 2008 RSS

In detail: Matthias and Marc, together HWKN, the architects of the MINI Rooftop

The design duo behind the MINI Rooftop NYC are a young team full of surprises. And believe us, they are only getting started. HWKN is the (much needed) abbreviation for Matthias Hollwich and Marc Kushner, two architects that are creating buildings that are as novel as they are progressive. Now based in New York, the two have come to this point collectively through the upper echelons of contemporary architectural practice.  After completing his studies in Munich, Matthias cut his teeth working for OMA , Eisenman and Diller + Scofido. In 2006 he founded HWKN with Marc Kushner. He is currently visiting professor at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Design.Marc worked for J Mayer H architects in Berlin and Lewis Tsurumaki Lewis after finishing up at Harvard. He believes "that architecture has a duty to serve its patrons and a responsibility to entertain the public".

Their work spans the fantastic and the speculative to the environmentally aware. From open air theaters in Rio, to stage designs, party locales and waterparks, all have a particular energy and revitalize their surroundings, never ignoring the site or conditions. HWKN employ the idea of Econic Design, a term that mixes ecology with the iconic. Marc says "To me Econic Design is a vision that sets goals but also triggers curiosity and creativity. This vision may include Simulated Ecosystems, Adapted nature, Living technologies, Added eco-machines, Growing structure, Pollinating energy, Materials as nutrients, and many more". Recent  projects include the Favella Formiga Open Air Theater in Rio de Janeiro, 2 large-scale apartment renovations on New York's Upper East Side, and the United States production plant for the artist Takashi Murakami, Kaikai Kiki. In spring of 2008 they were also awarded for their design of MEtreePOLIS, an urban vision for Altlanta 2108, conceived as part of the History Channel's Future City Competition. The MINI Rooftop NYC is their latest exciting contribution to the built environment. A public space that incorporates nature, play and function. See you there. Related Links: MINI Rooftop NYC Project Hollwichkushner interview