Boston City Hall: A Controversial Architectural Masterpiece
On its 50th anniversary, Boston City Hall, a concrete behemoth designed by Kallmann and McKinnell, prompts reflection on its complex history. Built in the 1960s to revitalize a struggling Boston, its bold modernist design, a stark departure from traditional city halls, initially polarized opinions. Today, it's hailed by the architectural world as one of the greatest buildings of the 20th century, yet public opinion remains divided. The architects envisioned it evoking profound reflections on human existence and history; however, its cold concrete exterior and labyrinthine interior fell short. This article recounts Boston City Hall's journey from design competition to completion and its impact on urban development, showcasing how a building can encapsulate a city's transformation.
Read more