Architectural History

Archetypes of Space: a Poetic View Into Rudolph's Design for the Boston Government Service Center

When the major architecture journal, Architectural Record, covered Paul Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center, they took an unusual and fascinating approach: looking at the building’s forms & interiors though the matrix of spatial archetypes.

Saying No to Demolition: the Nivola Family & Museum’s Stand Against Destroying Art (and Rudolph’s Building) in Boston

The state government of Massachusetts wants to sell parts of Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center—and that would mean the likely destruction of the two symbolic and lively murals by artist Constantino Nivola within the building. The Nivola family, foundation, and museum have come out with powerful statements in support of saving the murals (and the building for which they were designed). Your support could help save them.

New Film Features Paul Rudolph's Boston Government Service Center

A new film features images of Paul Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center.

Alert: Important Meeting On Future of Rudolph's Boston Government Service Center

The state wants to sell parts of Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center to a developer—and all their “alternatives” include demolition to part of the site. You can attend a presentation in Boston—and show your support for preservation.

Update: Development "Alternatives" Report Released for Rudolph's BOSTON GOVERNMENT SERVICE CENTER

The government-sponsored report on “development options” for the Boston Government Service Center has just been issued—and we summarize what they’re contemplating (including more-and-more demolition in every choice they’re considering).

Rudolph: The Green Architect — Part TWO

Further evidence of Paul Rudolph’s proto-“green” consciousness—as shown here by examples of his other strategies for dealing with intense sun loads.

Rudolph: The Green Architect — Part ONE

Paul Rudolph showed a “green” consciousness, in an era well before energy/environmental concerns were a priority among architects. Here we’re reminded about two of his designs, built in sun-intense Florida.

Constantino Nivola - a New Exhibit Focuses on A Modern Sculptor in the Public Realm

Constantino Nivola artistry wasn’t just for private appreciation. Over a multi-decade career, his sculptures and murals were part of the experience of our cities, and were used in all kinds of public sites: schools, government buildings, a firehouse…and at Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center.

Kate Wagner and McMansion Hell: Deeper Into the question of Brutalism (and what it's NOT)

The popular website goes further into the question of Brutalism, in part two of their exploration of that controversial term and style.

Busting Myths about the Boston Government Service Center and Paul Rudolph: Who Really Designed It?

There are a bunch of questionable accusations (and un-truths) about Rudolph and his building. We’re out to bust them—especially the one about who really designed the Boston Government Service Center.

A Rudolph Masterpiece is Sold—but you still have a Second Chance (with the Replica)

The original Walker Guest House was just sold—but you have a second chance: a faithful replica is now up for auction!

Hollywood Nods to Urban Design (and Paul Rudolph)

Paul Rudolph’s design for a Manhattan mega-structure makes an appearance in this new film…

New Book on Paul Rudolph - focusing on his Drawings

Rudolph’s drawings, so well-known for their graphic power and inventiveness, are now seen in a beautiful new volume.

When Three Generations of a Family Have Loved a House...

Dr. Walker, his children, and his children’s children, have lived in and loved the Walker Guest House—designed by Paul Rudolph.

Beloved Rudolph Design, The Walker Guest House, To Be Auctioned

The Walker Guest House—one of Paul Rudolph’s most delightfully inventive houses—will be sold at auction in December

Paul Rudolph Centennial Catalogs Get Positive Reviews

Paul Rudolph’s 100th birthday inspired the creation of two exhibits devoted to him—and those shows’ catalogs have received good reviews.

Ernst Wagner: Fighting to Preserve the Legacy of Paul Rudolph

A man of spirit and generosity, Ernst Wagner has been working to protect and educate the world about Paul Rudolph’s creative contributions.