Design auction offers incredible architecture 'experiences'

Architecture can look freaking cool on the internet, but it’s no doubt best experienced in person. And for a lucky few, a new auction benefiting the Van Alen Institute will let them in on some of the most extraordinary design experiences around the world.

Now in its fourth year, the Van Alen Auction of Art + Design Experiences has previously offered everything from a visit to artist Donald Judd’s Marfa compound to a birdwatching expedition with architect Jeanne Gang. This year’s prime lots? A tour of postmodern masterpieces by architect John Portman in Atlanta, hosted Portman’s son, Jack (starting bid: $1,450); a visit to two of midcentury legend John Lautner’s designs in L.A. (starting bid: $1,450); an afternoon at the rainforest home of Brazilian modernist Lina Bo Bardi (starting bid: $950), to name a few.

Other highlights include a night of glamping in a luxury yurt near Jackson Hole, Wyoming, dinner at the striking Alan-Voo House in L.A., and a seaplane ride over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

The auction is now live on the auction site Paddle 8 and will close on March 30.