15. Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice
Commissioned by Henry Ford II in the 1960s, The Ford Foundation was designed by Kevin Roche John Dinkeloo and Associates as a soaring, inspiring space for the foundation’s headquarters – a radically transparent building of glass, granite, and Corten steel. The 12-story enclosed atrium garden, designed by Dan Kiley, was the first of its kind in the United States. In 1997, New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission designated it an official landmark, affirming that the building has stood the test of time as an innovative urban space that captured the aspirations of the foundation’s social justice mission.
Following a 3-year restoration by Gensler, the new Center opened in 2018, preserving the building’s original character while making it even more open and inclusive with an emphasis on sustainability and accessibility. Driven by a mission to serve the individuals, institutions, and ideas that are broadening the frontiers of social change, the Center has dedicated two full floors for programming. The historic atrium garden is open to the public, as is a new gallery focused on artists whose work engages with issues of justice, dignity, and fairness.
The site will be open on Saturday, October 19th from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.
While Open Access Sites don’t require reservations, there are often long lines. You can skip ahead to the front with a VIP Passport. Enter our raffle for a free Passport below!
Next, check out 10 Awesome Reservation Only Sites at Open House New York 2019