Parisian influences on the architecture and urbanism of Philadelphia peaked during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries when designers here embraced Second Empire, Beaux-Arts, and City Beautiful perspectives. Their accomplishments in many ways transformed Penn's 'Greene Country Towne' with the addition of monumental structures and spaces rivaling those found in European capitals. Their interventions challenged the Center City grid and drew nature into its streets in ways new to Philadelphia. This presentation will focus on the City Hall–Logan Square–Parkway–Art Museum axis, highlighting formal and functional correlations between Paris and Philadelphia française.

SPEAKER: PROF. DANIEL E.COSLETT, PHD, DREXEL UNIVERSITY

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee works to create awareness and promote a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive architectural profession.

The Cultural Initiative approaches EDI through the lens of cultural exchange and celebration. Rather than treating EDI solely as a professional or institutional issue, the initiative creates opportunities to learn from the cultures, histories, traditions, and creative practices represented within Philadelphia's diverse communities. Through exhibitions, conversations, partnerships, film, art, food, and other cultural programs, the initiative aims to celebrate difference, amplify underrepresented voices, build connections, and create a greater sense of belonging within the architectural community.