A nonprofit in Gowanus, Van Alen Institute is a driving force behind community-led urban design, which believes that local knowledge and care enrich the design process. On Sat 10/17/26, 12-4 pm, stop by our annual open house to learn more about us, view our exhibition Open Access: Exploring 130 Years of American Design, and engage with the exhibition participants about their work. Stick around to participate in family-friendly workshops led by local artists: Inspired by the designs in our archive, create your own masquerade mask or a collage of your ideal city. (Plus – enjoy apple cider donuts and hot cider!)