The Traditional American Porch: Between the Past and Present
When we think of the traditional American porch, images of distinctive white columns and light blue, sloping roofs come to mind. These symbols of tranquility and comfort are iconic. We might also picture two rocking chairs with individuals sitting in them, holding glasses of sweet iced tea. This reflects an atmosphere of relaxation.
But is this traditional image the only one we can associate with the concept of a porch?
Reconsidering the Concept of the Porch
In reality, there are many places and structures we can contemplate as counterparts to the traditional porch in different contexts. For example, what about a public park? Or a circular home of Native Americans? Or even the dining kiosks in New York City? These places challenge the stereotypical image of the porch. They show how the concept of an “open space” can evolve depending on location and cultural context.
Renewing Concepts in Architecture
These are some of the ways in which architects and designers are rethinking these familiar structures. They do so not only in everyday contexts but also in major architectural events like the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale. Architects and designers are striving to renew the concept of the porch. They want it to reflect the cultural and urban diversity of American society, redefined to align with contemporary uses of open spaces.
“The Porch: Architecture of Generosity” – An Exhibition Redefining Social Space
The exhibition “The Porch: Architecture of Generosity” opens its doors to the public on Saturday, May 10th. This project is organized by a group of institutions, including the Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design at the University of Arkansas, DesignConnects, and the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The exhibition stands as a prominent example. It shows how traditional structures are reimagined in modern architectural contexts.
Porches as Symbols of Time and Place
According to the assistant curators of the pavilion, porches are not just physical structures. They also symbolize the broader concept of social gathering and interaction. They transcend being mere architectural spaces to become vital centers. These centers foster environments for education, relaxation, interaction, and play.
As Peter MacKeith from the Fay Jones School of Architecture explains, the porch is a place “where we invite each other to sit with us for a while.” It is a space marked by hospitality. It encourages reflection and harmony among individuals.
The Porch: More Than Just a Physical Structure
What distinguishes these porches, MacKeith adds, is that they are not merely “architecture as a physical object” but “architecture as experience and activity.” This idea reflects a shift in architectural thinking. The focus is on the human and experiential dimensions of space, emphasizing social interaction and shared activities.
A Diverse Experience of the Porch Inside the American Pavilion
There are many experiences to discover in the “Porch” exhibition, starting with the historic American Pavilion itself. The design team includes the Marlon Blackwell Architect office in Fayetteville, Arkansas, industrial designer Stephen Burks, as well as design firms D.I.R.T. Studio and Ten x Ten. They have covered the historic 1930 Palladian-style building with a massive wooden porch.
Innovative Porch Design: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
This porch features a comfortable ground-level surface and a conversation area. It also has outdoor furniture that adds a touch of relaxation. The ceiling has been painted in an electric blue wave pattern. This design choice is inspired by traditional Southern porches known for their calm and welcoming atmosphere.
Various Events Under the Porch Roof
This welcoming structure will not only serve as an architectural space but will also host a variety of performances and events. These will be in collaboration with the Crystal Bridges Museum. Museum Executive Director Rod Bigelow says, “Our team is extremely excited and energized about creating individual moments on the porch—a moment of solitude or collective moments.”
A Celebration of Hospitality and Cultural Privacy
Susan Chin from DesignConnects adds, “We are showcasing Ozark hospitality on the global stage.” This idea enhances the concept of reception and welcome. It reflects the spirit of the exhibition that encourages social interaction and celebration.
Chin also notes that “this is a perfectly timely idea,” emphasizing that the focus on Arkansas shows “sensitivity to diverse perspectives.” It highlights the richness of local experiences and traditions in a global context.
Tangible Projects and Artistic Experiences in the American Pavilion
Inside the pavilion, visitors encounter projects from 54 different participants, carefully selected to present creative and impactful ideas. The assistant curators wanted to avoid complex terminology, theoretical projects, and distracting technological screens. Therefore, they asked participants to create “porch windows” inspired by realistic works that represent tangible, easy-to-understand models.
Avoiding Complexity: Projects Reflecting Reality
Peter MacKeith, one of the assistant curators, points out that the goal was clear from the start. “It has been clear to me for over a decade that the primary and ultimate audience for those visiting the Architecture Biennale is not you and me—it’s schoolchildren.” Based on this perspective, participants were chosen from nearly 400 applications. There was an emphasis on ensuring that their contributions were as tangible and understandable as possible.
Realistic and Impactful Project Models
Among the notable projects, James Carpenter Studio, in collaboration with Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates, presented a transparent blue model of the museum entrance. They designed it for the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. This creative touch aimed to demonstrate how architectural design can integrate with the natural environment.
In another context, WXY from New York, in collaboration with the city’s Department of Transportation, presented a set of parts to modify the food kiosks. These kiosks emerged during the COVID period in the city, with the goal of transforming them into stronger, more accessible structures. This project served as a practical model. It reflects how public spaces can be improved to better meet people’s needs.
Diversity of Projects: 54 Different Ideas
The “windows” adorning the pavilion resemble shadow boxes filled with images and architectural models. In one case, they included a forest of small evergreen trees. These projects provide sensory experiences. They allow visitors to engage with different architectural ideas.
In this context, MacKeith says, “It’s like a box of chocolates, and people will encounter 54 different flavors.” This diversity ensures that each visitor will discover something new and impactful in the Porch exhibition. It highlights innovation and responsiveness to the needs of the community.
The Perfect Timing Amid Political Conditions
The pavilion comes at a sensitive time, partially funded by the U.S. Department of State and coinciding with a period of political division and uncertainty. However, the assistant curators believe that the timing is ideal for achieving the goals they aim for.
Bringing People Together Through the Porch
Rod Bigelow, Executive Director of the Crystal Bridges Museum, expresses this timing by saying, “I think this project works really well in the context of bringing people together.” He emphasizes the importance of dialogue and connection between individuals during this phase. “And I think more than anything else, that’s what we need to do now—come closer to one another, listen, and discuss.”
The Porch as a Tool for Communication
In Bigelow’s view, the porch represents the “ideal concept” to achieve this goal. It is not just a physical structure but a place for gathering and social interaction.
