Additional fee, registration required.
Love it or hate it, Brutalism has shaped Boston like no other city in America. From civic landmarks to cultural and academic institutions, the city embraced concrete architecture in ways unmatched by any other major U.S. city. Today, Brutalism is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. This tour explores the historical and social context of Boston’s Brutalist legacy, bookended by two of its most iconic examples—the New England Aquarium and Boston City Hall, both celebrating 55 years. Join us as we examine the architectural, cultural, and political forces that made Boston a Brutalist capital.
Learning Objectives
- Explore the postwar factors that led to Brutalist architecture in Boston and how it shaped the city's civic, cultural, and institutional identity.
- Identify key design elements, material choices, and structural innovations that define Brutalist buildings.
- Discuss the evolving public opinion of Brutalist architecture, from widespread criticism to its current resurgence and preservation efforts.
- Investigate how Brutalist projects contributed to Boston’s mid-century urban renewal efforts and continue to influence today.