Buildings, remodelings, and urban design by architect Susana Torre reflect her feminist worldview.
Born:
November 2, 1944 in Puan, Argentina. Has lived in the United States since 1968.
Education:
- 1967: Architectural diploma from the University of Buenos Aires
- Post graduate studies at the University of Buenos Aires and at Columbia University in New York
Important Projects:
Susana Torre is best known for her urban design and her many renovations and remodelings. Susana Torre's works include:
- 1979: The Editor's and Graphic Designer's lounges in the Old Pension Building in Washington, DC
- 1980: The interior of the Consulate for the Ivory Coast in New York City
- 1981: A master plan for the restoration of Ellis Island in New York Harbor
- 1982: A turn-of-the-century carriage house in Southampton, New York (This received an Award of Excellence of Design from Architectural Record)
- 1985: Schermerhorn Hall at Columbia University
- 1987: Firehouse #5 in Columbus, Indiana
Partnerships & Firms:
- 1978-1984: Principal at The Architectural Studio of New York
- 1984-1989: Partner at Wank Adams Slavin Associates and then Torre Beeler Associates
- 1989-1994: Principal of Susana Torre and Associates of New York
Teaching:
- Director of the Barnard College Architecture Program
- Associate professor of architecture at Columbia University
- Director of the graduate art program at Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan in 1994-1995
- Headed the architecture and environmental design department at the Parsons School of Design in New York
Important Publications:
- Editor and author of several chapters: Women in American Architecture: A Historic and Contemporary Perspective
- Special issue: Making Room: Women in Architecture, Heresies journal of art and politics
About Susana Torre:
Susana Torre describes herself as a feminist. Through her teaching, writing, and architectural practice, she works to improve the status of women in architecture. Her feminist ideals also influence her building designs. For example, Firehouse #5 in Columbus, Indiana is configured to provide for both men and women. The fire station has separate sleeping quarters and places and emphasis on the kitchen rather than the locker room.
Susana Torre's architectural practice focuses on ethical civic design, with a Postmodernist approach to building design. She has been deeply involved with historic restorations, seeking to balance the form of older buildings with modern needs.
Susana Torre was a founding member of the International Archive of Women in Architecture at Virginia Tech and served on its board from 1985–1995.
