Dutch design experiences in Van Alen Institute Auction

Wed, May 6 - Wed, May 20  2015

Van Alen Institute - Paddle 8 - New York Consulate Region

The New York-based independent nonprofit architectural organization Van Alen Institute believes design can transform cities, landscapes, and regions to improve people’s lives. It is organizing a unique Auction of Art + Design Experiences on Paddle 8, with the proceeds benefitting their cross disciplinary research, provocative public programs, and inventive design competitions.  Bidding is now open. The 25 exclusive activities from around the world include a number of exclusive experiences with top tier Dutch designers and architects, including a tour of his private gardens with Piet Oudolf, browsing the library of Amsterdam with Irma Boom, or  spend a day with Ben van Berkel at his Amsterdam-based UN Studio. Other highlights include a hot tub roundtable with Charles Renfro, a flight above London on Norman Foster’s helicopter, Copenhagen power plant test with Bjarke Ingels, birdwatching with Jeanne Gang, a home library reading with Barry Bergdoll, and more.

Piet Oudolf

A Dutch Designer’s Secret Garden: Lot Number 9

Lauded landscape designer Piet Oudolf—known for working in solitude as he creates horticultural masterpieces out of everyday plants—will offer rare access to his private gardens in Hummelo, Netherlands. After the tour of Oudolf’s self-described “dream landscape,” refresh with drinks at his favorite local hangout, the nearly 400-year-old Gouden Karper.
Piet Oudolf is a Dutch garden designer and author whose work focuses on incorporating native perennials and grasses in bold, colorful styles. His work includes the High Line, Battery Park Conservancy, and Serpentine Pavilion.

Irma Boom

The Secrets in the Stacks: Lot Number 15

Feeling bookish? Join award-winning graphic designer Irma Boom in a visit to the Library of the University of Amsterdam, which holds her extraordinary collection of handmade books. As the two of you you spend a few hours browsing her collection, you’ll get the low-down on Boom’s favorite designers and learn the fundamentals of bespoke book design.

Ben van Berkel

Amsterdam Architecture Role-Play: Lot Number 23

Be the Art Vandelay of UNStudio for a day. Ben van Berkel will welcome you into his studio for a day of work and design in Amsterdam: You’ll sit in on meetings with power brokers and witness the operations of a major architecture studio. As a midday break, van Berkel will take you to his favorite lunch spot, Odette, to enjoy a well-earned meal.

To register and start bidding, visit the auction page on Paddle8. Bidding ends Wednesday, May 20, 5 PM EST.