Margaret Helfand facts for kids
Margaret Helfand (born June 26, 1947 – died June 20, 2007) was an important architect and city planner from New York. She was known for her amazing designs and even led the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects.
Early Life and Education
Margaret Helfand was born in Pasadena, California, on June 26, 1947. She went to Swarthmore College from 1965 to 1968. Later, she earned her first degree (B.A.) from the University of California - Berkeley.
After getting her degree, she traveled to London in 1970. There, she studied at the Architectural Association School and the International Institute of Design. She then returned to the University of California - Berkeley to earn her master's degree in architecture (M.Arch).
Career Highlights
Margaret Helfand was a highly respected architect and urban planner in Manhattan. She was famous around the world for her fresh ideas in designing buildings. She worked on many different projects, including college campuses and office buildings.
Her designs often used simple, clean shapes and natural materials. She also made sure her buildings fit well with the areas around them.
In the 1970s, Margaret worked for big architecture firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Then, in 1981, she started her own company called Helfand Architecture.
Many female architects at the time mostly designed homes or interiors. But Margaret broke through this idea. She designed many large buildings for institutions and businesses. Her firm won many awards for its designs. A book about her work was even published in 1999.
Some of her notable projects include Kohlberg Hall and the Unified Science Center at Swarthmore College. She also designed the headquarters for Automated Trading Desk in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
In 1998, Ms. Helfand was chosen for the College of Fellows by the American Institute of Architects. This is a very high honor for architects. In 2002, she also received the Rome Prize in Architecture, which is a special award for artists and scholars.
Margaret helped create the Center for Architecture in New York. This place is a hub for showing off new ideas in architecture. It's also where the New York chapter of the American Institute of Architects is located.
After the World Trade Center was destroyed, she played a big role in a group called New York New Visions. This group advised the government on how to rebuild Lower Manhattan.
Personal Life
While studying in London, Margaret had an adventurous spirit. She sailed a large 90-foot schooner with friends to Spain and the Caribbean. After finishing her master's degree, she sailed across the South Pacific Ocean from Costa Rica. She also enjoyed modern dance.
Margaret Helfand was married to Jon A. Turner. He is a retired professor of Information Systems at New York University. Margaret passed away in New York City, New York, in 2007, just before her 60th birthday. She died from complications related to colon cancer.
See also
In Spanish: Margaret Helfand para niños
