Nathan Friedman

Nathan Friedman is a Professor in the Practice at Rice University's School of Architecture. He previously served as a 2021–23 Wortham Fellow and has taught at institutions including the Rhode Island School of Design, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and Universidad Iberoamericana. His research explores the intersection of politics, identity, and the built environment, with a focus on the material history of the US-Mexico border. Friedman co-founded Departamento del Distrito in 2017, recognized for its innovative residential, public, and curatorial projects.

Education:

• S.M.Arch.S., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• B.Arch., Cornell University

Research Interests: Friedman’s work bridges architectural practice with critical theory, examining how spatial configurations reflect and shape political identities. His projects blend historical analysis with contemporary design, as seen in exhibitions like Attending Limits, supported by the Graham Foundation. His writing appears in journals such as Art Journal, Log, and MAS Context.

Awards and Recognition:

• 2022 Architectural League of New York Prize

Labs/Teams: Departamento del Distrito, a Mexico City-based practice emphasizing interdisciplinary design and curatorial projects. Notable collaborations include work with Eisenman Architects and OMA/AMO, including the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art in Moscow.