Why Modern Architecture Doesn't Matter
By Elizabeth Holt
After our recent talk, Why Modern Architecture Doesn’t Matter, we asked our audience to weigh in on which of 12 unprotected modern buildings in New Haven they would regret losing. Though not under direct threat at this time, these buildings highlight the vulnerability of modern architecture. Every building we presented received votes, but a few were clear crowd favorites.
Receiving the most votes was the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. The Beinecke was followed closely by the Goffe Street Fire House, Temple Street Garage, and the Yale Art and Architecture Building.
Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library; Gordon Bunshaft, Skidmore Owings & Merrill; 1961-1963
Goffe Street Fire House; Venturi and Rauch; 1974
Temple Street Garage; Paul Rudolph; 1961
Art and Architecture Building; Paul Rudolph; 1961-1963
To many, it came as a surprise that such distinctive and beloved buildings such as the Beinecke are not listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Because owners must consent to National Register listing, it’s possible that some of these buildings may never be listed. However, awareness and understanding are vital pieces to ensuring these architectural gems remain for generations to come.
Are you surprised these buildings aren’t listed? What other modern buildings in New Haven would you hate to lose? Let us know what you think!
You can also learn more about these and many other buildings on our Modernism site, newhavenmodern.org.
Becton Engineering and Science Center; Marcel Breuer and Associates; 1968-1970
Community Services Building; Orr, deCossey, Winder and Associates; 1965
Department of Police Services; Orr, deCossey, Winder and Associates; 1973
First New Haven National Bank; Office of Douglas Orr; 1961
Kline Biology Tower; Philip Johnson & Richard Foster; 1963-1965
Knights of Columbus Building; Kevin Roche, John Dinkeloo, and Associates; 1967-1969
Morse and Ezra Stiles Colleges; Eero Saarinen; 1958-1962
Quinnipiac School; Perkins & Will; Granberry, Cash & Associates; 1965, 1968
Elizabeth Holt is the Director of Preservation Services at the New Haven Preservation Trust.