During the lockdowns, we took space from cars and used it as gathering places for people. We put up Plexiglas-glass barriers and spread out tables in restaurants. We used our kitchens as offices and classrooms. Will the way we design our homes, offices, restaurants and streets just go back to the way things were before? Or will we see some permanent changes in the way we design, share and utilize spaces in the city? This panel of leading designers will endeavour to find out.
A futurist, facilitator and strategist, Chris holds a Master’s degree in Studies of the Future and has married his tourism, economic development, real estate and marketing expertise with future methodologies to create development strategies that shape the future of places around the world.
Eran Chen is the founding principal and design director of ODA. Since establishing the office in 2007 he has become one of the most prolific architects in New York. Chen has gained a reputation for delivering designs that are innovative as well as socially and fiscally responsible.
Derek B. Gagne is a Principal at EDSA. Fueled by his global awareness and personal travels, Derek is inspired by the understanding and application of movement, space, and context. Derek manages the day-to-day operations of the New York studio.
Alison Novak is Head of Sidewalk Urban Development. Alison has overseen the acquisition, design, financing, construction, and completion of a wide range of housing developments ranging from affordable to high-end, homeownership to rental, single-family to high-rise. She has over 15 years of real estate development experience.