DesCours is a free, public, ten-night, architecture and art event now in its fifth year, held the first week of December in New Orleans. This event invites internationally renowned architects and artists to create ten architecture installations within 'hidden' locations in the heart of New Orleans, including private courtyards, rooftops, abandoned buildings and walkways, all locations normally unseen, inaccessible or unused by the public.

DesCours is unique in that it provides a platform for experimentation within the architectural field, showcasing architecture installations that use new materials, methods, technology and interactivity. DesCours presents an opportunity for viewing contemporary design within a historic setting by way of juxtaposition, thereby exposing the elegance achieved in the careful articulation of contrasting old and new. On a local scale, DesCours highlights the culturally rich fabric of New Orleans as a great backdrop for forward-thinking structural innovations that nod towards the future of architectural possibilities.

DesCours provides much more than a series of innovative architecture installations, in that it also invites musicians to perform nightly within the sites. This pairing of local musical talent, historic settings, and inventive architecture installations creates a truly one-of-a-kind experience that invites audiences to see, hear, and experience these previously obscure spaces in a new light.

Throughout DesCours many special events are held, including a VIP preview party, a press event, a film screening, a Performance Extravaganza (new this year!), and celebration events for the opening and closing. DesCours also features podcast (recorded) and docent-led (live) tours which aim to expand the experience for the visitors even further, and also reach greater audiences.

AIA New Orleans is presenting the event in partnership with the Downtown Development District (DDD), the City of New Orleans, the Louisiana Architecture Foundation, and numerous private businesses, organizations, and individuals. AIA New Orleans is proud to present this event free of charge and open to the public.

— Melissa Urcan
DesCours Director and Curator
AIA New Orleans Executive Director

2011 AIA New Orleans Executive Committee
President 2011   Marcel Wisznia, AIA
President-Elect   W. Ray Manning, FAIA
Past President   Charles Montgomery, AIA
Vice President   Brett Petry, AIA
Secretary   Ron Martinez, AIA
Treasurer   Ian Thompson, AIA
AIA Louisiana Delegate   John Campo, AIA
AIA Louisiana Delegate   Kevin Morris, AIA
Associate Director   Cassandra J. Howard, Associate AIA

2011 DesCours Committee
Michael Ball
Lori Bassett
Megan Cook
Melissa Urcan