Category Archives: Architecture

A Room for the Year: The University of Wyoming’s Early Attempts to Provide Student Housing

When the University of Wyoming opened its doors to students on September 6, 1887, university officials had to consider housing for the students arriving from outside Laramie. Due to low enrollment and the fact that most students were from Laramie, … Continue reading

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Serving UW for 70 years: A Brief History of Wyoming Hall

After World War II, the University of Wyoming experienced tremendous growth across campus. Construction projects were a response to the rapid increase in student numbers, which was heavily influenced by the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, or the G.I. Bill … Continue reading

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What to Know Before You Go: Visiting the American Heritage Center’s Loggia

Looking for an enjoyable spot to add to your must-visit list this summer? Here at the American Heritage Center, located in the Centennial Complex on the campus of the University of Wyoming, we have just the spot you are looking … Continue reading

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The Shopping Center of Tomorrow is History

From gardens of rhododendrons and azaleas to marijuana. That seems to be the case with the Northland Center located outside of Detroit. Designed by Victor Gruen, the Northland Shopping Center opened on March 22, 1954. Designed to accommodate a rapidly … Continue reading

Posted in architectural history, Architecture, Built environment, city and regional planning history, Demolition, Design, Post World War II, Retail history, Retail stores, Shopping centers, Suburbia, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

The Saga of Old Main’s Tower

In 1886, the skyline of Laramie became dominated by a massive stone structure, known today as Old Main on the University of Wyoming campus. The structure’s octagonal stone tower with a steeply pitched conical spire was a town landmark. But, over the years some of Old Main’s original architectural features were removed. The first to go was the stone tower. Continue reading

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Victor Gruen: Architect of Urban Renewal

Anyone interested in American architectural history, especially those intrigued by the mid-century modern style, will be pleased to learn that the University of Wyoming’s American Heritage Center (AHC) has recently digitized part of an important collection in this area.  The … Continue reading

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Midcentury Housing: One Story

In the mid-20th century, the U.S. was experiencing both great economic success and a rapidly expanding population. As a result, housing and urban planning were of imminent concern to architects and city planners alike. Enter Alfred Kastner. Born and educated … Continue reading

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