Kicking off in September of 2023, Boulder's Month of Modern (MoM) celebrates ten years of inspiring, connecting and engaging with some of the most prominent minds in Boulder’s design community. Founded as a celebration of architecture, design, lifestyle, art and culture, MoM’s mission is to cultivate and be a leader in the conversation about Colorado’s modern while presenting the Boulder region as one of the country’s most lively and vibrant hubs of modern design. This September and over the course of four weeks, MoM will be hosting speakers, and thought-provoking panels, all leading up to a fabulous wrap party that’s not to be missed. Designed to educate, delight and inspire, Month of Modern is moving full speed ahead this year, because ten years is worth celebrating - especially when it involves the character of our amazing city.
A quick Q&A with HMH Architecture + Interiors Stephanie Bingham, leading the way as MoM’s Marketing & Operations Director.
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MoM is celebrating 10 years this year! What does that mean to you all?
From very humble beginnings, Month of Modern has shattered attendance records, and blown any expectations out of the water…back in 2014, we never imagined how this would grow. As the city’s unofficial celebration of design, Month of Modern has attracted hundreds of visitors to Boulder each year to celebrate creative accomplishments, share new ideas, and inspire through design. -
How has the Boulder community contributed to/impacted MoM’s success?
At its core, Month of Modern events are a chance for people to connect face-to-face where they can learn, network and grow. But it’s so much more than that. Boulder has an amazing community of talented designers that spans across expertise areas. Month of Modern provides opportunities for participation and collaboration with the unified goal of presenting the region as one of the nation’s most vibrant hubs of modern design. -
What are you most looking forward to for MoM September 2023?
Month of Modern is pulling out all the stops to give our architecture and design community something to get excited about this September for our tenth anniversary edition! We can’t wait to see you in celebration of architecture, design, lifestyle, art and culture—to celebrate the amazing character of our city. -
Tell us a bit about this year's non-profit beneficiary.
Month of Modern proudly partners with various local non-profits, donating proceeds from our events to these hard-working organizations. This year, we are pleased to announce our partnership with Slöyd Experience, an organization dedicated to strengthening children’s character through woodworking, where their sole aim is to foster self-reliance, nurture concentration, coach perseverance, encourage neatness, and instill an appreciation for labor – all of which will prepare them for their future. We are also continuing our partnership with Historic Boulder, an organization dedicated to fostering the spirit and promoting the benefits of preservation through education, advocacy, rehabilitation & celebration. -
What are you hoping to see for MoM in the next 10 years?
One of our goals for 2023 is to obtain non-profit/tax exempt status for Month of Modern. We are delighted to announce that we have begun the filing process with the federal government and are dedicated to providing a platform for debate, dialog, and knowledge of Design in Colorado.
MoM23 Kick Off, powered by PechaKucha
September 7 at 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
eTown
Kicking off the festivities this year is an evening of fast-paced storytelling and inspiration, Pecha Kucha style! This event will feature a series of presentations centered around the theme of “SHAPING SPACE”, and exploring the ways in which we inhabit space, how we shape them and how they shape us. An interdisciplinary panel of Boulder’s design thinkers and practitioners explore how the way we shape spaces, even when complete, is ever-evolving, and how these years of COVID-19 pandemic have made us acutely aware of the spaces in which we inhabit. This event will feature a series of presentations, totaling a talking time of six minutes and 40 seconds, and aims to bring prominent and creative minds together for a night of networking, inspiration and fun.
CEU Blitz Day
September 12 at 8:00 am - 5:15 pm
Dairy Arts Center
Designers, architects, and industry professionals will be able to complete 6+ HSW (Health, Safety & Wellness) continuing education credits during this day of accredited presentations. For us lay people, the American Institute of Architects requires architects and interior designers to meet continuing education requirements of 18 units, with 12 of those approved in HSW topics. This event gives architects and designers the chance to meet those requirements in a unique and community centered way. There will be a trade show area dedicated to industry trade and manufacturer product displays, and the public is welcome to join in on the sessions! Plus, breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Mixology Clinic
September 21 at 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Jungle
Explore the process of making hand-crafted cocktails during a fun, hands-on mixology class. Afterward, join in on a lively and provocative debate discussing relevant and current architectural design issues. With food and drinks provided, this unique and interactive adults-only event will inspire and motivate.
Tour of Homes
Hoby Wagener Home Tour
September 23 at 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
In partnership with Historic Boulder, join MoM for a one-of-a-kind House Tour experience in Boulder. Attendees will be given the rare chance to walk through an impressive spectrum of Hoby Wagener houses that reflect the rich diversity of livable yet innovative architecture and design found throughout his homes. Hobart D. Wagenar, Boulder architect from 1950 to 1985, launched his own firm and designed over 200 public and private buildings, including two dorms on CU’s campus. This self-guided tour will give you an opportunity to walk through some of the most inspiring private homes in Boulder’s historic neighborhoods. This tour features distinct residences specifically chosen to inspire design professionals and enthusiasts alike!
Wrap Party and Awards
September 28 at 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Boulder Theatre
Some call it the best party of the year, and we might have to agree! Join MoM for an evening of cocktails, food, music, and great company as they celebrate the region's most acclaimed names in modern design. Designed and presented by Todd Reed, MoM is proud and excited to host the annual Month of Modern Design Awards where they will be honoring a winner from the “Hoby Wagener” home tour. Guests can expect to enjoy a specially curated menu from GB Culinary, and experience the soul-infused swamp pop band known as Rootbeer Richie & The Reveille. With special live performances throughout the night, we just know that there will be a dance party happening. Cocktail attire is encouraged - get dressed up and excited for this fabulous night of celebrations.
Tickets to all events are available at MonthofModern.com
