48. Mid-century Modern in Connecticut

A group of architects known as the Harvard Five made their mark on New Canaan, Connecticut—a suburban town within commuting distance of New York City. They designed and built there some of the most influential and significant examples of Mid-century Modern architecture in the country. Today you can visit Philip Johnson’s Glass House in New Canaan, now a museum operated by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

But stellar Modern architecture can be found in other Connecticut towns, too, commissioned by sophisticated clients including homeowners, mayors, and factory owners. Long-time architecture fans Robert Gregson and Peter Swanson take listeners to Hartford, New Haven, and Litchfield to discover some of the state’s other Modernist landmarks.

Every wonder what that big concrete building in front of Ikea in New Haven was? Find out in this episode. If you thought all there was to Connecticut was Colonial homes, this will change your mind!

 

More Stories about Moderns in Connecticut!

See Connecticut Explored, Winter 2009-2010

https://www.ctexplored.org/back-issues-winter-20092010/

including Bob Gregson’s “Modernism in Connecticut”

https://www.ctexplored.org/modernism-in-connecticut/

 

“Philip Johnson in His Own Words”

https://www.ctexplored.org/philip-johnson-in-his-own-words/

 

“Discovering LaGardo Tackett” By Peter Swanson, Winter 2010-2011

https://www.ctexplored.org/discovering-lagardo-tackett/

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This episode presented by Attorney Peter Bowman, helping the seriously injured and holding distracted drivers accountable for their actions. More at bowman.legal.

And Connecticut Humanities, co-publisher of Connecticut Explored magazine. Episode produced by Mary Donohue and engineered by Patrick O'Sullivan. Visit ctexplored.org