The Stunning Architecture in Atlanta
With a rich history, and its place as a booming metropolis, architecture in Atlanta brings together an array of notable buildings featuring a variety from classical to contemporary. For those interested in the famous buildings in Atlanta that have made an impact both visually and historically, the city has many worth visiting and many that we would love to show you!
The High Museum of Art
The combination of the white exterior, various shapes, and glass brick, coupled with its elevated position on a hill certainly allow for this building to stand out. This sculptural structure is the perfect home to the over 15,000 works of art that can be found inside as part of its permanent collection. While the museum was originally founded in 1905 and went through multiple designs, the building as we know it today was built in 1983, by Richard Meier (who won the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize the following year because of it). After that, Renzo Piano constructed a three-building expansion to complement it.
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Another noteworthy museum is the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. The museum is dedicated to civil rights achievements both within the United States as well as beyond and complements our Atlanta Black History & Civil Rights Tour perfectly. Designed by architect Philip Freelon, the building opened in 2014 in Pemberton Place on land donated by The Coca-Cola Company. It sits adjacent to three other notable sites, the Georgia Aquarium, the Centennial Olympic Park, and the World of Coca-Cola. The structure features two curved walls rows of rectangular shapes in different brown tones which envelop the museum.
Swan House
When it comes to classical architecture the Swan House at the Atlanta History Center is the quintessential luxury residence. Built in the 1920s, the home was built for wealthy Atlanta businessman Edward Inman and his family. The house and its gardens were designed by architect Philip Shutze and incorporate elements from Italian and English classical styles. With ties to the civil rights movements, the building has a complex historical story. The family moved into the home in 1928, one year before the Great Depression, with Edward facing an untimely death only three years later. His wife Emily Inman lived at the residence until her death at 84 in 1965. The house and its furnishings were then purchased by the Atlanta Historical Society and opened as a museum in 1967, undergoing restoration in 2004. With many movies filmed in Atlanta the building has been famously used for certain scenes in both the 2013 film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and its 2015 sequel, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2.
Mercedes Benz Stadium Atlanta
Home to two of Atlanta’s sports teams, this multiple purpose stadium is not only where sports fans can watch the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United FC, it’s also a visually stunning building. The building features a retractable roof and a pinwheel shape consisting of eight interlocking triangular panels. The stadium was designed by architect Bill Johnson who took inspiration from the Roman Pantheon and it opened in 2017, replacing the existing Georgia Dome.
The Georgia State Capitol
This building is not only notable for its architectural merit, but also has a historical significance related to civil rights in the area. A recognized National Historic Landmark, this is the primary office building of the state’s government including the governor, lieutenant governor, and the secretary of state. It is also the gathering place for Georgia’s General Assembly. Intentionally designed to resemble the Neoclassical style of the United States Capitol in Washington DC. This is most notable through its central dome tower, in this case, adorned with gold. Erected in 1889 the building also features a museum with a collection that celebrates the natural and cultural history of the state.
Many Notable Mentions
Atlanta has something for everyone, and the buildings present in the city showcase its rich history and culture, and its rise to the prominent metropolis that it is today. From the towering cylindrical Westin Peachtree Plaza, to Atlanta’s very own Flatiron Building, the grandeur of Atlanta city hall, to the elegance of the Fox Theatre, and more! There are architectural gems to be found all over the city.
As you can see Atlanta’s architecture is just another example of what the city has to offer. If you’re looking for a private guide to accompany you and share insider information, or are looking for a transportation service to help get you around the city, we’ve got you covered with our knowledgeable guides and professional drivers.