Diller Scofidio + Renfro

Diller Scofidio + Renfro is a New York City-based interdisciplinary design studio that integrates architecture, the visual arts, and the performing arts. Originally founded by Elizabeth Diller and Ricardo Scofidio in 1979, the firm is particularly well known for its interdisciplinary approach to architecture. Their influence stems as much, if not more, from their contributions to the theory and criticism of architecture as from their built works. These are sometimes in the form of written work, but more often are in the form of installation art, video art or electronic art.

In 1999-2004, the MacArthur Foundation presented Ms. Diller and Mr. Scofidio with the ‘genius’ award for their commitment to integrating architecture with issues of contemporary culture, making them the first recipients of the MacArthur Prize in the field of architecture. They were made fellows of the Royal Institute of British Architects and were inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Other prestigious awards and honors received by Diller Scofidio + Renfro include: the National Design Award from the Smithsonian; the Brunner Prize from the American Academy of the Arts and Letters; an Obie for an off-Broadway theater production; the AIA President’s Award; the AIA Medal of Honor; and AIA Design Awards for numerous projects. In 2003, the Whitney Museum of American Art held a retrospective of the studio’s work, recognizing the firm’s unorthodox practice. In 2009, Elizabeth Diller, Ricardo Scofidio, and Charles Renfro were featured in a one-hour segment with Charlie Rose. Fast Company named Diller Scofidio + Renfro the most innovative design practice in the profession and among the 50 most innovative companies in the world.

The studio is led by three principals - Elizabeth Diller, Ricardo Scofidio, and Charles Renfro - who work collaboratively on the design of each project. Elizabeth Diller is currently a Professor in the School of Architecture at Princeton University. Ricardo Scofidio is Professor Emeritus at Cooper Union. Charles Renfro has served as a visiting professor at both Columbia University and Rice University.