F. Philip Barash

F. Philip Barash is a Lecturer in the Historic Preservation department at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). He serves as full-time visiting faculty with expertise in urban planning, placemaking, and cultural infrastructure. Barash co-founded Public Sphere Projects, an urban planning and placemaking think tank that advises governments and institutions on strategies to invigorate public life, honor community character, and enhance shared places.

His educational background includes:

• BA, 2004, University of Detroit
• MA, 2005, The University of Chicago

Barash's research explores the intersection of urban planning, cultural infrastructure, and community development, examining how public spaces can foster social equity while maintaining community identity. His work has established guiding principles for the Obama Presidential Center and led transformative public art initiatives with the National Park Service. His writing investigates the contested American landscape, covering topics from forgotten watersheds to controversial buildings.

His publications span multiple disciplines and demonstrate consistent focus on urban transformation, community engagement, and the evolving relationship between people and place. His recent articles examine architectural biography, housing innovation, postmodern government buildings, and environmental restoration in post-industrial contexts.

Professional service includes:

• American Planning Association, Vice-chair, Arts and Planning Division
• International Downtown Association, Board of Directors
• Urban Land Institute, Panel Advisory Services Honorary Association

Barash regularly lectures at TUDelft Master City Developer program, Boston University's City Planning and Urban Affairs, and the Harvard Graduate School of Design. His professional practice has piloted philanthropic investments into inclusive public spaces across greater Boston and launched cultural policy efforts supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Based in both Santa Fe, NM and Chicago, he brings a dual-city perspective to creating vibrant and just urban environments.