Boston City Hall is one of the most controversial buildings in the world, often ranked among both the best and worst examples of architecture.

In this episode, we break down the full story of Boston City Hall, one of the most iconic Brutalist buildings ever designed. From the demolition of Boston’s West End and the urban renewal of the 1950s and 60s, to the creation of Government Center and the radical design competition won by Kallmann McKinnell & Knowles.

Why does Boston City Hall look the way it does? What is Brutalism in architecture, and why did architects embrace raw concrete, exposed structure, and monumental forms? Why do architects admire this building while so many people dislike it?

We explore the design concept, the construction, the public reaction, and the decades-long debate around whether Boston City Hall is a masterpiece of modern architecture or a failure of urban design.

This episode covers architecture history, Brutalist architecture, Boston architecture, urban planning, city design, controversial buildings, and iconic landmarks.

If you’re interested in architecture, urban design, Brutalism, modern architecture, city planning, or famous buildings around the world, this episode is for you.