About So – il
SO – IL: Redefining Architecture and Design
SO – IL is a renowned architecture and design firm based in New York that has been creating structures that establish new cultures, institutions, and relationships for over a decade. The firm was founded by Florian Idenburg and Jing Liu in 2008 with the aim of redefining architecture through innovative designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The team at SO – IL comprises architects, designers, researchers, and thinkers who work collaboratively to create unique solutions for their clients. They believe in designing structures that not only meet the needs of their clients but also contribute positively to society as a whole.
One of the key strengths of SO – IL is its ability to blend different disciplines seamlessly. The firm has worked on projects ranging from cultural institutions to private residences, each with its own set of challenges. However, they have consistently delivered exceptional results by combining their expertise in architecture with other fields such as art, engineering, technology, and sustainability.
SO – IL's portfolio includes several notable projects such as the Kukje Gallery in Seoul which won them the prestigious MoMA PS1 Young Architects Program award in 2010. The gallery features an innovative façade made up of translucent fiberglass panels that allow natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy for visitors inside.
Another noteworthy project is the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art at UC Davis which opened its doors in 2016. The museum features an undulating roofline inspired by nearby agricultural fields which creates a dynamic interplay between light and shadow throughout the day.
In addition to these large-scale projects, SO – IL has also worked on smaller-scale installations such as Frieze Art Fair's Reading Room which was designed using recycled materials sourced from previous editions of the fair itself.
What sets SO – IL apart from other firms is their commitment to sustainability. They believe that buildings should be designed with the environment in mind and strive to create structures that are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible. They have incorporated sustainable features into many of their projects such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and passive heating and cooling systems.
SO – IL's work has been widely recognized both nationally and internationally. They have received numerous awards including the AIA New York Chapter's Design Award for Excellence in Architecture in 2017 for their design of the Manetti Shrem Museum.
In conclusion, SO – IL is a firm that is redefining architecture through innovative designs that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and socially responsible. Their ability to blend different disciplines seamlessly has resulted in some of the most unique structures around the world. With a commitment to sustainability at its core, SO – IL is poised to continue making a positive impact on society through its work for years to come.