A group of NewSchool graduate-level architecture students is traveling to Portugal this month to conduct research for a special global design studio project on creating “a new public library for the 21st Century.” The project, led by instructor Tatiana Berger, includes visits to architecturally-relevant buildings and the opportunity to meet and discuss ideas with Pritzker Prize-winning architect Alvaro Siza.

The project is an example of how global design studies is integrated into the NewSchool experience through lectures, visiting faculty members, industry collaborations, study abroad opportunities, and projects that are inspired by addressing global issues.

NewSchool Instructor Berger says she was inspired to develop the project with NewSchool students as a result of her previous collaborations with Siza to design and build a library. Siza, she says, is considered to be among the most well-known architectures in the world. Students will complete their library design concepts during the Spring Term based on the research they conduct in Portugal during the trip.

The Portugal itinerary, from March 30-April 5, includes the possibility of visiting: Leca de Palmeira Pools and Boa Nova Tea House by Alvaro Siza; Serralves Museum and Gardens and Porto School of Architecture by Alvaro Siza; Public Library in Viana de Castelo by Alvaro Siza and Multi-use Complex by Eduardo Souto de Moura; Church in Marco de Canaveses by Alvaro Siza and Recuperation of the Santa Maria de Bouro Monastery by Eduardo Souto de Moura.