About the Collection
The Collection of Women of 20th-Century American Architecture is a publicly accessible, digital collection of the names and presently known information about the works and lives of women who have shaped, and continue to shape, the built environment of the United States. BWAF defines architecture broadly to include building design, engineering, landscape architecture, interior design, urban planning, criticism, and other related professions. Much of the original content was provided by the American Institute of Architects’ Office of Archives and Records. Ever expanding, The Collection currently lists over 1,100 women who practiced between 1885-2000.
The Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation’s goals are to preserve the legacies of women and their work through The Collection, and to use it as a teaching tool to fuel future programs and educational activities. The Collection is housed in the Dynamic National Archive, or DNA.
BWAF is in the process of developing a Special Collection that will be selected by a jury and curated by a digital archivist. These profiles will be integrated within the DNA, but will not be editable by the public.
About the DNA
BWAF, working with historian Diane Favro and UCLA’s Experiential Technologies Center and Department of Architecture and Urban Design, created an open-source database, called the Dynamic National Archive (DNA) to house The Collection of Women of 20th-Century American Architecture. The database’s current name reflects the site’s interactive functionality as well as its anticipated organic growth.
As a collaborative project, the DNA enables scholars, students, practitioners and the public to contribute knowledge. Little information currently exists about women architects. BWAF therefore needs help from the public and the profession alike to create fresh profiles. These profiles gather biographical data, notable work, awards, publications, links, etc. The DNA software allows anyone to contribute by simply signing up for a free account. You will not be added to any mailing lists and your privacy and information will be protected. Registration is not necessary to browse The Collection.
To Browse by name, by year, by state/region, or recent entries, simply click:
To Add, follow these simple steps:
- 1. Click Here (or image above)
- 2. Click “Log In” in the upper right hand corner
- 3. Click “Register” and fill out required information.
- 4. Log in to Add an Architect or Edit an Entry
