NOT NOT Blurs Boundaries Between Exhibition, Office, and Party at Van Alen Institute

Design practice NOT NOT, founded by Ekin Bilal and Celia Chaussabel, has transformed the Van Alen Institute's Urban Room in Gowanus, Brooklyn, into a hybrid space that functions as a temporary office, exhibition, performance venue, and event space. The project, titled 'NOT NOT,' resists easy categorization, reflecting the studio's interest in overlooked dimensions of architecture. Inspired by artists Rirkrit Tiravanija and Cameron Rowland, and designers New Affiliates and Xavi Aguirre, Bilal and Chaussabel probe ambiguities in architectural practice. The exhibition features three categories of work: Bilal's 'Office of Back of House' series on maintenance objects, Chaussabel's 'Objectiles' series narrativizing design objects, and ongoing commissions. Works include interactive video games, comics, architectural drawings, benches, models, and furniture. The modular display uses off-the-shelf plywood panels, metal sheets, cinder blocks, and mylar insulation, all designed for disassembly and reuse. Receipts from The Home Depot in Gowanus are displayed to document material sourcing. The space is part of the Van Alen Vanguard initiative, supported by the Architectural League's Independent Projects grant program, providing young practices with a physical space in New York City. Open office hours, community workshops, and tours aim to engage diverse audiences. The exhibition runs through August 15.