Christiane Crasemann Collins

Christiane Crasemann Collins (1926-2018) was a prominent historian of urban planning and architecture. Born in Hamburg, Germany, she emigrated to Chile and later to the United States, where she obtained her Master’s degrees in History of Art and Library Science from Columbia University.

Christiane is renowned for her collaborative work with her husband, George R. Collins, particularly their translation and analysis of Camillo Sitte’s works, which significantly contributed to the understanding of modern city planning. She played a vital role in the 1968 protests against Columbia University’s proposed gym in Morningside Park, an event that highlighted urban planning issues and community rights.

Throughout her career, Christiane taught at Columbia and Cornell Universities and was an active contributor to avant-garde and architectural circles.