Since its founding in 2014, Month of Modern has become a cornerstone of Boulder's creative calendar. The event brings together architects, artists, designers, and curious minds for a month-long celebration of what makes great design so essential to our lives. MoM enters its 12th year with a renewed purpose and a theme that's as timely as it is timeless: Modern Revival: Breathing New Life into the Past.
This year's focus is on transformation, not tearing down what was, but thoughtfully reimagining what could be. In a time of rapid development and shifting tastes, Month of Modern raises a compelling question: How can we preserve history while embracing the needs of the present and future?
“For me, some of the most compelling designs don’t erase the past—they build on it,” says Stephanie Bingham, MoM Director and Marketing Lead at HMH Architecture + Interiors. “This year, we’re asking: What does it look like to revive and reimagine our spaces, rather than replace them?”
Through a series of panels, parties, exhibitions, and collaborative conversations, Month of Modern spotlights how design influences our homes, our cities, and the way we connect. As always, the events are open to everyone, whether you're in the industry or just design curious. With limited capacity venues and sellouts in past years, advance RSVPs are highly encouraged.
FEATURED DESIGN CHALLENGE:
Reviving the Elks: A Design Challenge for the Next 125 Years
One of the most exciting additions to this year's lineup is a community-driven design competition in collaboration with the historic Boulder Elks Lodge #566, now celebrating its 125th year. Often overlooked despite its iconic mid-century bones, the Elks Lodge is a perfect example of a building waiting to be reawakened.
Month of Modern invites designers, creatives, and community members to submit proposals on how the space could evolve into a vibrant, inclusive hub for Boulder's next generation while still honoring its legacy and rich roots. Submissions will be unveiled at the September 4 kickoff event, with voting, community feedback, and expert insight guiding the conversation.
2025 Event Lineup
Kickoff + Mid Mod Pool Party
September 4
Start the month with a splash, literally. The Month of Modern kickoff combines tropical cocktails, tiki decor, retro swimwear, and a cannonball contest that's sure to be the talk of the town. Attendees will be the first to see entries from the Reviving the Elks design challenge and vote for their favorites. With its vintage vibes and open-air setting, the Elks Lodge sets the perfect stage for this year's theme of honoring the past while diving into what's next.
Cocktails & Conversations: Historic Remodeling Panel
September 11
Grab a drink and join Historic Boulder along with a panel of local architects, designers, and builders for an evening dedicated to the art of remodeling with intention. From original windows and woodwork to modern upgrades and materials, the conversion will explore how to balance preservation with functionality, and how to honor a building's story while bringing it into the present. It's all about thoughtful renovation, good company, and great design.
Film Screening + Talkback: Sitting Still
September 16
Settle in for a screening of Sitting Still, a thoughtful documentary that traces the career of landscape architect Lauri Olin, whose work has redefined how we interact with public space. The film explores the power of urban design to connect people and shape cities. Stay afterward for a panel hosted by AIA Colorado, where local voices reflect on how Boulder's own public spaces have evolved and where they're headed next.
Closing Celebration + Todd Reed Design Awards
September 26
Close out the month in style with a party that blends celebration and creativity. With craft cocktails, local bites, a silent auction, and live performances, this evening brings the community together to honor not just great design but the people behind it. The night's main event? The presentation of the Todd Reed Design Award to the winner of the Reviving the Elks challenge. Come raise a glass to what design can do—past, present, and future.
A Celebration of Legacy and Imagination
In a city known for its forward-thinking spirit, Month of Modern offers something rare: a chance to pause, look back, and honor the stories our spaces tell. But it also urges us to imagine what more they could be, with intention and imagination. Whether you're there to listen, learn, dream, or design, MoM 2025 invites you to explore how revival isn't just about restoration. It's about possibility. Visit MonthOfModern.com for tickets, submissions, and more information about the event.