I love that cities have distinctive architectural styles. They have their own personalities, and Albuquerque is no different.
The most prevalent architectural style in Albuquerque is the Pueblo Revival Style. These buildings are typically made from adobe or stucco. They often have rounded corners, vigas (wood beams protruding through the exterior walls), and flat roofs. Some examples are shown below.
Source: David Patterson
Source: Websta (Eva Kolenko)
Source: Unknown
Source: UNM
Other influences on the architectural scene include the Colonial Spanish style. It’s very prevalent in churches, such as the San Felipe De Neri church, pictured below.
In the early to mid 1900s, Albuquerque’s architectural style evolved, in part due to the popularity of Route 66, which runs through the center of town. Neon lights, roadside motels, and diners became the norm along the city’s major streets.
Source: Ernst Hass (Photographer’s Gallery)
One of the strangest architectural relics from this time, is the large, red arrow sculpture that sits at a busy intersection.
Source: Road Arch
More recently, design in Albuquerque has become increasingly experimental. A great example is the tile house, shown below, by Beverly Magennis. She started this project in 1984, and it took her 11 years to complete. The details are amazingly intricate, so it isn’t surprising that it took so long to complete. It’s a beautiful home, and I love that the pattern is inspired by Albuquerque’s Native American roots.
Source: Unknown
Another architect that has led the experimental architectural movement in Albuquerque is Bart Prince. His home, shown below, is a great example of his progressive work. When it was built in the 1970s, it was somewhat controversial in the local architecture community; however as the years went on, people began to appreciate the home’s unique identity and its otherworldly beauty.
Source: Flikr
Well that’s all I have for today. I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about Albuquerque’s architectural style.