Sim Van der Ryn

Famed architect to discuss ecological design

Internationally known architect Sim Van der Ryn, one of the leading voices in ecological design and sustainable architecture, will discuss his theories and ideas at 8 p.m. Feb. 16 in Cline Library Assembly Hall.

Van der Ryn, president of Van der Ryn Architects, will speak on "Design for Life," the title of his latest book in which he argues that buildings are not objects but "organisms," and that cities are "complex ecosystems." He'll explain how ecological design leads to the creation of "places of the heart"-places that address the human need to be connected to one another and to the natural world.

Van der Ryn served as California State Architect under Gov. Jerry Brown, as professor of architecture at UC Berkeley where he established a focus on issues of socially and environmentally responsible design, and as founder of the Farallones Institute, which helped to create national awareness of "ecologically integrated living design."

He is the author of several books about sustainable planning and design and has influenced a generation of architects worldwide.

Van der Ryn's talk is part of the 2005-2006 Environmental Lecture Series, "Conversations for the Future," co-sponsored by the Master of Liberal Studies Program, the Center for Sustainable Environments, Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Program, Program in Community, Culture and Environment, and the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, with support from Flagstaff Cultural Partners.