Photos: What Language Leaves Behind

On February 19, 2026, we gathered at Van Alen Institute for an evening of conversation and discourse on interdisciplinary design practice with Taylor Loutsis, Studio Loutsis; Joshua Ramus, REX; and Craig Dykers, Snøhetta.

Moderated by journalist Diana Budds, panelists discussed how shared values around community, integration, and cross-disciplinary partnership are central to their successful collaborative projects.

​This event was curated by the Van Alen Vanguard, a dynamic network of emerging design leaders. Diana Budds and Taylor Loutsis are among the inaugural cohort developing public programs and exhibitions that reimagine designers’ roles in civic life and center equity, resilience, and local knowledge.