Projects

Here’s what we’ve been up to lately. Visit our archive to explore our history.

Projects

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Open Access: Exploring 130 Years of American Design

Open Call — Now accepting proposals for exhibition concepts responding to Van Alen's archives. Deadline: June 28, 2026.

District Design Fellowship

Building capacity of NYC's local leaders through design projects that champion small businesses.
BronxManhattanStaten Island

Friends from the Canal

On view through August, these inflatable, illuminated sculptures by artist duo Mookntaka are a playful welcome to Gowanus.
Brooklyn

Los Círculos

On view October 1, 2025–July 2026, this award-winning lighting installation encourages gathering and interaction in Washington Heights.
Manhattan

Gowanus Yearbook

A living portrait of Gowanus, including long-time residents and newer arrivals.
Brooklyn

Van Alen Vanguard

A cohort of rising professionals reimagining cities, public space, and designers' roles in civic life.
Brooklyn

Education Partnerships

Working with teachers and students through collaborative projects, research, and field trips.
Brooklyn

Urban Room

Using our HQ to host public programs and as a flexible community space.
Brooklyn

Common Build

Surfacing the work of emerging designers and testing new strategies to bring people together in public space.

Exhibition: The House Transformed

On view in Spring 2026, The House Transformed presented new ideas for domestic architecture.
Brooklyn