The strategic use of light, pattern, and color is key for Wagner Murray Architects as the firm embarks on transforming existing public areas into entirely new spatial events. “The emotional experience of human beings within an architectural space is what it’s really about.” says principle Dave Wagner. “It has to appear effortless. The public doesn’t have to know why they feel the way that they do; the architectural elements simply have to work together harmoniously to bring about the desired effect.”

“I think art can play a much bigger role in solving environmental issues,” says Stacy Levy, whose eco-art harnesses the natural forces of rainwater, plant roots, and microbes to help tell the “ecological story” of a site and create solutions for storm-water and water pollution issues.