San Francisco. The bridge from east to west. Home to designers from every corner of the globe, with backgrounds as varied. Historic sites, great sports, charming neighborhoods, views, boats and a shimmering bay.
CONNECTING’07 will put you in the heart of this vibrant, cosmopolitan microcosm of the world. Tour Alcatraz, Chinatown or Napa Valley, visit the Bay Area incubators for the next design breakthrough. You can explore shopping, museums, cultural events, all while you engage in the design Congress.
Masonic Center The center was designed by Bro. Albert F. Roller. It is built of beautiful Italian marble, and enhanced by sculptural reliefs and stained glass windows. The generous auditorium seats 3,000 people in comfort; wherever you sit in this amphitheater you will have a terrific view and hear every nuance.
Afternoons In the afternoons, you'll break into smaller groups at several locations, including the famous Fairmont Hotel half a block away. A grand dame of hotels, its opulence stands in contrast to the Masonic Center. Around the corner is the Stanford Court, a smaller but charming hotel.
Lunches At lunchtime, you will circulate through the World Design Gallery, located in the Masonic Center and the Fairmont Hotel, and be inspired by your colleagues' work. Stop by the booths and learn about new products and services from vendors that can help make your work more efficient and fluid. Or cheer on the competitors in the IBM Ultimate Derby.
Tours and Evenings
Tours around town will be available. But in the evening, expect fun. You'll have time to visit the many big and small design offices throughout the Bay Area and wine and dine your way through Chinatown, North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf and other neighborhoods.
