On a crisp and clear late October 2024 morning, very similar to the morning of October 27, 2018, the date on which the largest antisemitic attack in the United States occurred less than a half-dozen miles from where the ABA Forum on Construction Law held its Fall Meeting's Diversity Breakfast, Carla Swickerath delivered an inspiring presentation about design and resilience that resonated deeply with those in attendance. As a distinguished architect and partner at Studio Libeskind, Carla's journey and her impactful projects left an indelible mark on the audience, much the same as she has done in the architectural world, and her insights presented at this event were both profound and enlightening.
February 24, 2025
Healing Through Design
By Edward B. Gentilcore
After paying appropriate homage to a Pittsburgh icon and inspiration from her youth, Mister Rogers, Carla discussed her path to becoming an architect. This journey was shaped by a deep-seated passion for design and a commitment to creating spaces that foster healing and remembrance.
The design phase of Carla Swickerath's career began in 1999 when she joined Studio Libeskind, a firm renowned for its innovative and emotionally resonant architectural projects. Over the years, Carla has been instrumental in leading a wide range of projects, from cultural and civic to retail and urban planning, each marked by her visionary approach and dedication to excellence.
Carla spoke of one of her earliest experiences and involvement with the Jewish Museum Berlin. This project, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is a testament to the power of architecture to evoke emotion and reflection. The museum's design, characterized by its zigzagging structure and voids, captures the complex history of the Jewish people in Germany. Carla's role in this project laid the foundation for her future endeavors, emphasizing the importance of architecture as a medium for storytelling and remembrance.
Continuing her journey, Carla played a pivotal role in the design of the German Military Museum in Dresden. This project, like the Jewish Museum Berlin, is steeped in historical significance. The museum's design, featuring a dramatic glass and steel wedge slicing through the existing 19th century structure, serves as a powerful symbol of transparency and reflection on Germany's military history. Carla's involvement in this project underscored her ability to navigate complex historical narratives through thoughtful design.
Perhaps one of Carla's most notable achievements in the United States was her leadership in the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site in New York City. The Memory Foundations project, which she guided from the initial competition phase to its ultimate construction, stands as a testament to her dedication and skill. The project honors those lost in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, while also looking forward to a hopeful and peaceful future. Carla's work on this emotionally charged project highlighted her capacity to transform spaces of tragedy into places of healing and resilience.
This already legendary project was followed by a discussion of Carla's leadership in designing the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco, California. Carla spoke about how this museum is itself an ode to dialogue, incorporating an angled, glowing blue structure within its historic 19th century brick power plant surroundings. She told the audience that the building's design was based on the two Hebrew letters spelling L'chaim (To life), which are symbols of the stories they tell.
All of these were profound precursors to Carla's current project with Studio Libeskind, managing the rebuilding of the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, a project that holds profound significance for the local community and beyond. Carla shared images conveying the synagogue's planned transformation into a symbol of resilience and unity. Carla's leadership in this project and the other projects she shared with the group demonstrates her commitment to using architecture as a means of healing and community building. Her work ensures that the new Tree of Life will serve as the Path of Light to hope and remembrance for generations to come.
Throughout her presentation, Carla emphasized the role of architecture in healing and community building. She spoke passionately about the need to approach each project with sensitivity and an understanding of its emotional and historical context, adjusting perspective to align with the unique needs and narratives of each space.
Hearing about these important stories all of which are or soon will be tangible built expressions, the Forum audience was very fortunate to witness the lasting impact of her work and the ways in which these spaces continue to foster healing and reflection. This Diversity Breakfast was a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of architecture. Carla's vision and work, characterized by a deep commitment to healing through design, will continue to serve as an inspiration with projects shaping our cultural and memorial landscapes.