Learning about architectural styles is not only about crediting beautiful architecture; it’s about unveiling the tales and the culture of a certain place. For Boylston, MA, a historic town with a community heart, architecture captures the soul einer community. Whether you’re a resident of the town, someone who loves history, or simply a curious individual wanting to learn more about Boylston, exploring the architectural history of the town is a glimpse into its past and its present.
In this story, we’ll take a look at what is the architectural style in Boylston and how it relates to its history, landmarks and community. From colonial homes to modernist designs, you’ll learn how architecture narrates the story of Boylston’s evolution over the decades.
| Building | Architectural Style | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Boylston Building | Early Skeleton Construction | Designed by Carl Fehmer in 1887, it features a sandstone façade and was one of Boston’s first skeleton-built commercial structures |
| 941–955 Boylston Street | Richardsonian Romanesque | Designed by Arthur H. Vinal in 1886, this building served as Boston’s first combined fire and police station |
| Hotel Boylston (demolished) | Italian-Gothic | Designed by Cummings and Sears in 1871, it was originally a residential apartment building |
| 500 Boylston Street | Postmodern | Designed by John Burgee with Philip Johnson in 1989, it features a mix of retail and office spaces |
| Boylston Street Library | Modernist | Inspired by the McKim building and constructed with Milford pink granite, it underwent a major renovation in 2016 |
| 888 Boylston | Sustainable Modern | Features biophilic design elements, including living walls and rooftop amenities, achieving LEED Platinum certification |
Architecture is an arrangement of bricks and mortar as much as it is a manifestation of the history and culture and the values of a community. Boylston, MA Boylston’s architecture reflects its evolution from a collection of early colonial settlements to a modern suburban town These styles reveal much about the town’s heritage and the influences that helped shape its evolution.
Historical Overview of Boylston, Massachusetts
Architecture of Early American Settlements
Boylston was incorporated in 1786, but its history stretches to the early colonial period, when settlers built simple, utilitarian homes. The first structures were usually wooden-frame houses topped with steep gabled roofs, as found in colonial Massachusetts. These houses were built to endure bitter winter weather and were often located close to farms.
Architecture: The Influence of History
This includes the events that shaped the growth of the town like the Industrial Revolution. The 19th century industrialization with its new materials and techniques led to more decorative and complex styles of architecture. Boylston’s closeness to Worcester, an emerging industrial center in the period, also brought in urban architectural influences.
Links to Statewide Trends
Boylston, a town in Massachusetts, was influenced by wider trends in New England architecture. From the Colonial Revival movement to the influx of Victorian styles, the buildings in Boylston reflect statewide architectural trends but with special flourishes that speak to its regional character.
Common Architectural Styles in Boylston
Though Boylston is a small town, it is rich in architectural styles reflective of the styles popular in its various eras. Let’s explore the biggest ones.
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Colonial Architecture
The colonial architecture is one of the oldest and most important styles in Boylston. These houses are characterized by symmetry, simple forms, and function. They typically feature:
- Gabled roofs
- Systems of central chimneys to heat efficiency home
- Wooden clapboard siding
Many examples of colonial homes still exist in Boylston, reflecting the town’s deep historical roots.
Federal Style
Emerging in the late 18th century, Federal style provided a dash of sophistication in Boylston’s architecture. Houses from this period often feature:
- Fanlights, elliptical, above front doors
- Decorative sidelights
- An aesthetic that is more sophisticated and rounded
Both residential and public structures were typically Federal-style buildings in Boylston, a reflection of the town’s prosperity after the Revolutionary War.
Victorian Era Styles
Boylston’s architecture went wild during the Victorian era. Popular substyles include:
- Queen Anne: Associates with asymmetry, turrets, decorative trim.
- Gothic Revival: Characterized by pointed arches and elaborate woodwork.
- You’ll see these styles in some of the town’s older neighborhoods. Victorian homes in Boylston have distinctive details, bright colors and highly pitched roofs.
Modernist Influences
By the mid-20th century, modernist architecture arrived on Boylston. The style favored minimalism and practicality, emphasizing clean lines and open spaces. Mid-century modern homes in Boylston tend to have:
- Flat or low-sloped roofs
- Tall ceilings and big windows for natural light
Minimalistic designs
Several more recent buildings bringing contemporary architecture to Boylston, infusing its time honored New England language with modern design principles.
Landmarks and Notable buildings
Boylston’s architecture isn’t only about homes, however: Its public buildings, churches and landmarks also reflect its rich history.
Historical Churches
Boylston’s churches are among its most iconic buildings. The First Congregational Church, for example, has that classic New England design: think white steeple and clapboard siding. These churches often echo the town’s colonial and Federal architectural styles.
Public Buildings
The town hall and library in Boylston are textbook examples of public architecture in evolving over the decades. The town hall is a modest design — reflecting the Federal style — while the library has more contemporary elements.
Residential Architecture
Boylston’s neighborhoods are peppered with distinctive homes that help define the town’s character. From colonial farmhouses to sleek modern houses, these homes offer a glimpse of the town’s architectural diversity.
The Importance of Nature in Boylston’s Architecture
Boylston’s natural geography shape its architecture. The town’s rolling hills, forests and proximity to the Wachusett Reservoir have shaped the building designs in a few different ways:
- Used of Local Materials: Many homes are built from materials such as timber and stone sourced from the area.
- Terrain Adaptation: Often building will be designed in such a way so that it enhances the Natural Landscape around it.
This relationship with the natural world imparts a certain quality to Boylston’s architecture — an integration of the manmade with the earth.
Modern Adaptations and the Efforts to Preserve
Historical Preservation
Boylston cares about preserving its architectural heritage. Local groups and residents collaborate to restore historic buildings, keeping them as part of the town’s character. Many of their programs center around restoring colonial and Victorian homes to their former glory.
Modern Adaptations
In addition to historical styles, Boylston has also taken on modern adaptations while staying true to its roots. New construction tends toward a mix of traditional New England styles with contemporary details, including energy-efficient materials and open floor plans. This dynamic, even towards its original architecture, allows for both preservation and continued innovation, thus keeping Boylston architecture relevant.
Neighboring Towns Comparison
Next to nearby towns like Worcester or Shrewsbury, the architecture of Boylston is noted for its rural charm and historical character. As Worcester is more urban and industrial in nature, Boylston has kept more of its small-town vibe.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Town | Architectural Focus | Notable Feature |
| Boylston | Colonial, Federal, Victorian, and Modern styles | Historic churches and residential homes |
| Worcester | Industrial, Victorian, and modern urban styles | Large-scale industrial buildings |
| Shrewsbury | Suburban homes and Colonial Revival styles | Expansive residential developments |
Info from Experts and Take from the Community
Local architects and historians say that Boylston’s architectural heritage deserves to be preserved. And many say the town’s mix of old and new makes it a unique place to live and visit. Members of a community devote pride to their houses, which are often live history.
Use these practical tips to explore Boylston’s architecture on your own
If you’d like to… explore Boylston’s architecture, here are some practical tips:
- Take a Walk: Historic neighborhoods here are great for getting a look at colonial and Victorian homes.
- Explore Historic Sites: Visit the First Congregational Church and other landmark buildings.
- Go to Local Events: Certain historical societies offer open houses or walking tours of historic houses.
Conclusion
Discover a truly unique character in the town of Boylston, MA with its history, nature, and architecture intertwined. From its colonial roots to its modern adaptations, the architectural styles in Boylston are a reflection of the town’s journey through time. Becoming familiar with these styles will not only deepen your appreciation for Boylston but it will also link you to the stories of the individuals who built and maintained this extraordinary community.
So next time you’re in Boylston, pause a moment and take in the architecture that surrounds you. It’s not just buildings — it’s a testament to the town’s history, culture and resilience.
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