Earth & Form: Exploring Native American Architecture in the Colorado Landscape (HYBRID)

Join award-winning architect Susan Atkinson for a captivating 3-week journey through Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes, where architecture, ecology, and cultural tradition meet. This immersive course explores how Native American structures—both ancient and modern—are deeply shaped by land, climate, and community. From the elegant simplicity of the tipi to the ingenuity of Puebloan cliff dwellings, discover architecture as a living expression of heritage, sustainability, and environmental wisdom. Learn how Indigenous design reflects harmony with nature and respect for place. Drawing from her extensive work with Native communities across the Rockies, Susan will also share real-world projects that blend culture and sustainable architecture with technological innovation. Whether you're drawn to history, design, or the landscapes of the American West, this course offers a perspective on how human creativity and the natural world can coexist in meaningful, inspiring ways. 

Note: This class has two sections. The section you register for determines how (online or in-person) you will attend class. Please pay close attention to which section you select.

Click the + icons in the boxes on the right side of the page to view the additional section of this course. Review the location listed in each box and select the section that suits your preferred method of attendance: either in-person at Drake Hall or online.

Susan Atkinson is an award-winning architect and former professor of Landscape Architecture at Colorado State University. Her architectural practice is at the intersection of sustainability, technology, and culture. Susan brings her expertise in culturally and environmentally responsive design to her undergraduate studies. As an avid trail runner and backcountry first responder, she has backpacked worldwide studying landscapes, culture, and design. She began leading nature tours to share her passion for the rocky trails of Colorado and Montana. Each summer, Susan is a glacier guide, conservation educator, and group leader with Road Scholar in Waterton Lakes and Glacier National Parks. 

Notes

• A current OLLI membership is required to register for all courses and lectures.
• If you do not have a Spring 2026 membership, one will be added to your cart at checkout.
• OLLI membership fees and course tuition are critical to the Institute's sustainability and are non-refundable.

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