Daniel Libeskind Discusses His Thoughts on the Creation of World Class Skylines

Libeskind Lecture is First in a Series of Events to Spotlight Industry Clusters Located in Cincinnati, Event Held on Eve of Ascent Topping-Off Ceremony

Daniel Libeskind attended a reception at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio tonight, and discussed his thoughts on how world class skylines are created, and the evocative nature of architecture.  Daniel Libeskind, who has designed buildings and cultural centers around the world, is in the area to celebrate the topping-off of The Ascent in Covington, Kentucky--his first residential high-rise to be constructed in the United States.

“I believe that design and architecture are the foremost communicators of all—they tell a story.  Without them, there would be no history, no reference about where we are, where we’ve been and where we are going; not only as individuals but as a society,” said Daniel Libeskind.  “For me, architecture tells a story about the world, our desires and dreams.  Architecture, and the buildings I create, are much more than a place, they are destinations meant to evoke emotion and to make you think about the world we all live in.”

The event is the result of a partnership between the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber and Corporex, and sponsorship from Frost Brown Todd and Voltage.  It gave spectators an opportunity to see many of the projects Libeskind is currently developing in Singapore, Milan, Toronto, Warsaw and New York, as well as listen to his thoughts behind the design for The Ascent.

“When I design a building, I take into account the surroundings of the site, the people who will live and work in the building, the people who will pass by it everyday, the way the light and sky will complement the structure. The Ascent is modern in design and rooted in the history, traditions and landscape of greater Cincinnati.  The crescent-shaped tower was designed to maximize views, and with a blue tint, the building will reflect the shades of the sky and the Roebling Suspension Bridge.  This building is not only a living, breathing work that stirs the soul, but it lifts the spirit and calls to mind all the possibilities that lie ahead,” added Daniel Libeskind.  

“Daniel’s vision was embraced by the region,” said Debbie Vicchiarelli, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Corporex.  “In fact, more than 70% of the homes sold before anyone even set foot in the building.  We are proud of all of the visionaries who support The Ascent as a symbol of collaboration, acceleration and implementation.”  

“The Ascent at Roebling’s Bridge puts an exclamation point on Cincinnati USA’s rich legacy of architectural masterpieces,” said Ellen van der Horst, President of the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber.  “The Ascent’s contribution to our skyline enhances our world-class appeal and will help bring international recognition and commerce to our region.  With the Ascent, Cincinnati USA is rising to a new level of sophistication.”

About Daniel Libeskind:
Daniel Libeskind, B.Arch. M.A. BDA AIA is an international figure in architectural practice and urban design. He is well known for introducing a new critical discourse into architecture and for his multidisciplinary approach. His practice extends from building major cultural and public institutions--museums, concert halls and universities, to commercial work--conference centers, hotels, shopping centers; as well as residential work. He also designs opera sets and maintains an object design studio.
Daniel Libeskind established his architectural office in Berlin, Germany in 1989. Upon winning the World Trade Center design competition, in February 2003, Studio Daniel Libeskind moved its headquarters to New York City. The office is now headquartered two blocks south of the original World Trade Center Site.  The European offices are based in Zürich, Switzerland and Milan, Italy.  In addition, SDL has established site offices with personnel around the world, including San Francisco, Denver, Bern, Toronto and Hong Kong.  
Since 1990, the office has been fortunate to be involved in a diverse array of urban, architectural and cultural projects. The office has won commissions for major cultural buildings and significant urban projects in Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Canada, the United States, Japan, Spain, Israel, Mexico, Croatia, Korea, Singapore and China, including more than two dozen towers and skyscrapers around the world.

Daniel Libeskind's architecture continues to reflect his profound interest and involvement in philosophy, art, music, literature, theater, film and a continuing commitment to expanding the horizons of architecture and urbanism.

It is fundamental to Daniel Libeskind's thinking and motivation that buildings and urban projects are crafted with perceptible human energy and that they speak to the larger cultural community in which they are built.

Contacts: 
Studio Daniel Libeskind Press Office:  Jessica Scaperotti/Nadine Dassain
(212) 497-9114 or (917) 378-9302
PublicRelations@daniel-libeskind.com

Linden Alschuler & Kaplan:
Mollie Fullington/Carmela Uzzi
(212) 575-4545
mfullington@lakpr.com
cuzzi@lakpr.com