The Frank Lloyd Wright foundation has named a new president and CEO, Joseph Specter.
Joseph Specter has been named president and CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, stepping into the role following Stuart Graff’s departure last August. Formerly the head of Arizona Opera, Specter brings a track record of financial growth and community engagement, qualities that the Foundation’s board believes will help advance Wright’s architectural legacy. As he takes the helm in May, Specter will aim to expand the influence of organic architecture, deepen collaborations with scholars and architects, and secure resources to ensure Wright’s vision remains relevant for future generations.
But in Ohio, the legitimacy of a property billing itself as a “new” Frank Lloyd Wright house is in question.
RiverRock, a newly built home in Ohio, follows plans Frank Lloyd Wright designed in 1959 but never realized—raising questions about whether it truly counts as his work. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation dismisses such reconstructions, arguing they rely on modern interpretations rather than Wright’s own vision. Despite the debate, the home’s owners insist that its design remains faithful to Wright’s original intent and invite guests to decide for themselves by booking a stay.
31-year-old Maja Malou Lyse will represent Denmark at the Venice Biennale.
Maja Malou Lyse will represent Denmark at the 2026 Venice Biennale, making history as the country’s youngest artist to do so. Known for her provocative digital art exploring sexuality and media, she has exhibited at institutions like Tate Modern and Kunsthal Charlottenborg. With a background in performance, video, and text, she promises to bring a bold perspective to the Danish Pavilion.
A study in Japan finds that its concrete buildings can absorb 14 percent of cement’s CO2 production.
Japanese researchers have found that the country’s concrete structures absorb 14 percent of the CO2 emissions from cement production, a process known as carbonation. By analyzing over a century of data, they estimated that Japan’s concrete has captured 137.1 million tons of CO2 since 1870. While concrete absorbs less CO2 than forests, the study highlights its potential role as a long-term carbon sink, emphasizing the importance of maintaining existing infrastructure.
SOM and 11 other firms have been shortlisted for Goodwoof’s 2025 Barkitecture competition.
Goodwoof’s Barkitecture competition has unveiled 12 architect-designed entries inspired by the theme “From Nature; For Nature.” They range from a cork-built retreat with a paddling pool to a cardboard pavilion modeled on origami. The shortlisted designs will be auctioned in May to support the Wild at Heart Foundation’s efforts to reduce stray dog populations worldwide.
Today’s attractive distractions:
Takashi Murakami is behind Fanatics’ next jersey drop.
NYC’s new wave of banks is swapping the banking for…coworking and coffee?
Fashion is throwing its weight behind the boat shoe.
If clogs are more your thing, here’s a primer on the Blundstone ones.
