“Aliveness and contending.” That’s how the architects described their vision for 320 Newbury Street. This is one of the main buildings of the Boston Architectural College. Today, we’re exploring the college’s fascinating history. It is a story deeply intertwined with Boston’s architectural evolution.
The Boston Architectural College started as the Boston Architectural Club in 1889. Imagine a group of architects seeking mutual support. They wanted to share knowledge and encourage each other. The club’s mission was clear. It was for the purpose of associating those interested in the profession of architecture. They aimed for mutual encouragement. They also sought help in studies. The club acquired premises necessary for a social club. Public lectures, exhibitions and classes completed their goals.
Initially, senior members taught evening classes to younger drafters. This informal atelier was modeled after France’s École des Beaux-Arts. The club quickly gained recognition. It held annual public exhibitions. It also published illustrated catalogs.
In 1911, the club acquired a permanent home at 16 Somerset Street. Ralph Adams Cram designed its Great Hall. The new space attracted more students. The curriculum became more structured.
However, the 1930s brought challenges. Most American architecture schools abandoned the Beaux-Arts tradition. Without a university affiliation, the club struggled to adapt. Arcangelo Cascieri became dean. He guided the school through this transition. He preserved the atelier teaching method. The college began hiring faculty from local architectural firms.
In 1944, the club reorganized as the Boston Architectural Center. Its mission was to provide architectural education. The focus was on those whose employment prevented daytime study.
By 1965, the center needed more space. It purchased a building at 320 Newbury Street. Ashley, Myer & Associates won a national design competition. Their Brutalist design still houses the college today.
The building’s design was daring for its time. It aimed to evoke aliveness through its form. Cantilevered masses and vertical slits defined its exterior. These slits offered glimpses into the building’s core activities. Open studio floors encouraged collaboration. The McCormick Gallery on the ground floor welcomed the public.
Interestingly, the college quickly outgrew its new building. It was originally designed for 200 students. By 1974, it accommodated over 650. In 1987, the college expanded again. It purchased the adjacent carriage house at 322 Newbury Street. This became administrative office space.
Take a look at the west elevation of 320 Newbury Street. Notice the trompe-l’œil mural by Richard Haas. Completed in 1975, it depicts a classical building with a dome. It is a striking contrast to the building’s Brutalist style.
In 2006, the Boston Architectural Center became the Boston Architectural College. This reflected its status as a degree-granting institution. In 2007, the college acquired 951/955 Boylston Street. This former home of the Institute of Contemporary Art provided additional studio and gallery space.
Today, the Boston Architectural College comprises four schools. These are Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Design Studies. The college also offers online sustainable design courses. It has a continuing education program.
Before we move on, remember the bee. It is the college’s informal mascot. It symbolizes selfless labor and collaboration. It’s a fitting emblem for an institution. An institution dedicated to shaping the built environment. The Boston Architectural College continues to evolve. It prepares students to design a better future.