Gingertown 2016 Just Around the Corner

It’s not just Santa’s little elves that are hard at work at Christmas time. It’s architects too! Founded in 2006 by David M. Schwarz Architects, GINGERTOWN is a one-of-a-kind holiday initiative that brings together the leading architects, engineers, and contractors in the DC area with building enthusiasts – young and old – to create a town made completely of gingerbread.  And, it’s all for a good cause.

Each year, David M. Schwarz Architects creates a new, themed master plan for the magical town of ginger.  Like all great master plans, the GINGERTOWN plan has the sense and rhythm of a traditional planned city with communal and civic-minded centers, green spaces and a strong pedestrian culture.  But unlike like other towns, the streets of GINGERTOWN are paved in Reeses Pieces and Rice Krispies, and typically have lamp posts constructed of candy canes.

GINGERTOWN’s expansive lots allow individual designers and teams to be highly creative as they build essential town structures like city hall, the concert hall, the library, and, of course, the toy store. Like many of their steel & concrete contemporaries, GINGERTOWN buildings often feature intricate structural support systems, functional windows & lights. They are even subject to a town building code! The confectionary creations are detailed with chocolate, frosting, sprinkles, jelly beans and dozens of other edible (and sugary) building materials.

The hand crafted structures are then donated and put on display at local hospitals, health care facilities and community support organizations to help spread the message of joy and hope during the holidays.

This year’s theme is GINGERTOWN London! Our City Planners have highlighted the landscape with a number of recognizable odes to London landmarks, such as the House of Peppermint (House of Parliament), Westminster Andes (Westminster Abbey) and the Sour Bridge (Tower Bridge). We are excited to see how our creative builders tackle some of these real-life wonders in the world of candy and gingerbread!

Gingertown DC will take place on Tuesday, December 6th at 900 16th Street, NW.

If you would like more information or wish to participate in the GINGERTOWN initiative this year please send an email to the Mayor of Gingertown at gingertown@dmsas.com

 

Since the event’s 2006 inaugural year in the elevator lobby of David M. Schwarz Architects’ Washington, DC office, GINGERTOWN has grown evolved into a cross-country affair. In addition to the original DC event, GINGERTOWN is also held in Dallas, TX, Nashville, TN and Atlanta, GA.