New ICA Boston

Next time you're in Boston, be sure to visit the new Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) building at Fan Pier. Designed by NYC architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, it's an exciting space (arguably more interesting than the exhibits within). Highlights include the theater, where the transparency of the walls can be adjusted, and the cantilevered-by-a-cantilever mediatheque room that hangs suspended above the water. More info about the design can be found on arcspace (unfortunately, plans for the intriguing lenticular glass front wall were thwarted by the client, but the panoramic view of Boston Harbor helps to take the edge off the disappointment).

I heard Elizabeth Diller speak about this building at Semi-Permanent 2005 and it was a great presentation. If you can make it up to the ICA, the architects will be giving a lecture there on January 17th.