Nordic Influences in America, the Last 25 Years

Organized by ASF with Susan Chin of DesignConnects, in collaboration with the American Institute of Architects New York, and American Institute of Architects Continental Europe, Nordic American Connections: Conversations on Architecture and Design is a 4-part series that presents prominent architects, critics and scholars to reflect on Scandinavian and Nordic design’s enduring impact in shaping modern American design since the 19^th century.

With renewed interest in the Nordic tradition and its resilient building strategies for climate action and wellbeing, contemporary architects and designers, both Nordic and American, remain strong contributors to the American landscape with award-winning projects reflecting cross cultural influences. The series kicks off on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, with Nordic Influences in America, the Last 25 Years at Scandinavia House in New York City. The panel will focus on the historical perspective on the Nordic design approach and emphasis on ‘complete design’—human comfort, social equity and welfare, environmental responsibility, natural material and handcraft–and ties to the Homeland: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden. Most importantly, the panel highlights Nordic design’s pivotal role in Modernism in America.

This opening panel features Rosalie Genevro as moderator, architectural historian and urbanist; Peter MacKeith, dean of Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, University of Arkansas; Thomas Phifer, founding partner of Thomas Phifer and Partners; and Tod Williams, co-founder of Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners.