These 16 Pieces Of Architectural Brilliance In Virginia Could WOW Anyone
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Anna Strock
Author
Architecture in Virginia — where does one even begin? When it comes to beautiful buildings and design, the Old Dominion has an almost endless supply. As a state, we have some of the greatest minds in design, starting with greats like Thomas Jefferson, and carrying on through today. Two of our state universities are ranked in the top 10 architecture schools in the nation – Virginia Tech is #4 for undergrads and the University of Virginia is #9 for graduate programs.
We were so excited about this article because we love the artistry of building design and construction. But what we found is that there were so many incredible buildings to choose from that we soon became overwhelmed. So what we are offering you is a list of some of our favorites — from beautiful to bizarre.
Designed by Thomas Jefferson and Charles-Louis Clérisseau in 1788, the Capitol building is home to the oldest continuously operating legislature in the Western Hemisphere and has served as the architectural inspiration for countless other government buildings throughout the years. Fun fact: the Virginia State Capitol Building actually showed up in a movie!
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The George Washington Masonic National Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr, Alexandria, VA 22301, USA
Designed by Harvey Wiley Corbitt, the memorial was built by the Masonic brotherhood between 1923-1932. The building honors George Washington for his influential role as a Freemason. By ancient Masonic tradition, temples are built on hilltops or mountains. This site was of particular significance, as it had been considered by Washington and Jefferson as an ideal site for the nation's Capitol prior to the selection of Washington, D.C. The interior of the building was not completed until 1970, but it now houses significant Masonic and historical artifacts, in addition to serving as a museum, library, performing arts center, and Masonic meeting place. Learn more about this fascinating Virginia landmark.
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Epworth United Methodist Church, 124 W Freemason St, Norfolk, VA 23510, USA
As stated on the church website, when it was dedicated in 1896, the Epworth United Methodist Church was said to be the "handsomest ecclesiastical structure south of New York." The stately granite building features a cross-shaped sanctuary, 22 stained glassed windows, including memorial windows designed by Lamb Studios, whose designer was a contemporary of Tiffany, and a stained glass skydome. This church is truly a magnificent work of art, from the foundation to the gargoyled steeple. While you're in the area, be sure to spend some time exploring Norfolk; it's one of the friendliest cities in Virginia!
Monticello, 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, VA 22902, USA
Built over a period of 40 years, Monticello is considered to be Thomas Jefferson's "autobiographical masterpiece." If you haven't seen Monticello for yourself, you should. Nothing testifies to Jefferson's exceptional mind more than this remarkable structure and the surrounding structures and gardens. After you've toured the great Monticello, check out the nearby wine trail in Virginia.
Norfolk Scope Arena, 201 E Brambleton Ave, Norfolk, VA 23510, USA
The Scope Arena not only serves as an iconic landmark for Norfolk, but is also home to the Norfolk Admirals hockey team, as well as large-scale events, conventions, and concerts. Designed by Pier Luigi Nervi, the arena features 24 flying buttresses and is the world’s largest reinforced thin-shell concrete dome.
First English Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1603 Monument Ave, Richmond, VA 23220, USA
The rising towers of the First English Lutheran Church, constructed in 1911, stand as a testament of Richmond's architectural grandeur.
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University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
It's hard -- no, impossible -- to write a piece about architecture in Virginia and not include multiple works by Thomas Jefferson. His role as politician, statesman, educator, diplomat, and architect made his work incredibly significant to our history. Nowhere is that more evident than at the University of Virginia.
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA, USA
Designed in 1913 and dedicated in 1920, the amphitheater's design is traditionally credited to Thomas Hastings, although evidence suggests Frederick D. Owen, a civil engineer, had a large part in its design. The towering columns surround a 5,000 person amphitheater used for ceremonies and events honoring our military men and women. Arlington National Cemetery is truly one of the most reverent landmarks in Virginia.
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Pagoda & Oriental Garden, 265 W Tazewell St, Norfolk, VA 23510, USA
Officially called the Marine Observation Tower, "the Pagoda" was given to the City of Norfolk by the Taiwan Provincial Government in 1989 after a visit from the governor of Taiwan. The two-story octagon building was built by materials manufactured in Taiwan and shipped to Norfolk. Taiwanese artisans then built the structure, which now houses a restaurant, gardens, and a koi pond. Learn more about the breathtaking Norfolk Pagoda and why you should plan a visit.
Bacon's Castle, 465 Bacons Castle Trail, Surry, VA 23883, USA
What makes this house especially unique is its architecture. It is the only remaining "Jacobean Great House" left in the nation – a distinction recognized by its triple stacked chimney, carved compass roses, and distinct gables. Preservation Virginia now owns Bacon’s Castle and hosts many special events, including guided weekend tours. For any history or architecture enthusiast, a trip to Bacon's Castle is a must.
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107 E Main St, Independence, VA 24348, USA
Built in 1908, the Grayson County Courthouse features a Flemish gable with turrets. Designed by architect Frank Pierce Milburn, it now serves as the Art and Cultural Center of Grayson County.
St. Andrew's Catholic Church, 631 N Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24016, USA
Built in 1902, this amazing Gothic structure is on the National Register of Historic Places. As striking as the exterior is, the interior is simply breathtaking. After exploring this stunning landmark, spend some time walking around Roanoke. It's considered to be one of the most livable destinations in Virginia!
The Markel Building, 5310 Markel Rd, Richmond, VA 23230, USA
It’s been called one of the 10 ugliest buildings in the world. But I’m not sure what architect Haig Jamgochian was expecting when he took his inspiration from a foil-wrapped baked potato. Built in 1962 for the Markel Corporation, this giant ode to aluminum foil stands as the only remaining piece of Jamgochian’s work after his "Moon House", a bullet proof house built for Howard Hughes with a crescent moon-shaped roof, was torn down. The Markel Building is certainly one of the weirdest places you can go in Virginia, but it's impressive nonetheless!
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Old City Hall, 1001 E Broad St, Richmond, VA 23219, USA
Old City Hall in Richmond served as the city seat from 1894 until the 1970s. Built from local granite, the Hall features an atrium, arched cloisters, a grand staircase, a stunning clock tower, and stonework that is pure artistry. Learn more about this fascinating hidden gem in Richmond, Virginia.
Donald D. Engen Observation Tower, 14390 Air and Space Museum Pkwy, Chantilly, VA 20151, USA
The physics of this building defy my limited knowledge of architecture. But it's modern "spacey" design make it a perfect fit at the Udvar-Hazy Air and Space Museum. Overlooking Dulles International Airport, visitors have a picture perfect view of planes taking off and landing at one of the world's busiest airports. It's one of the most underrated destinations in Virginia.
Danville, VA, USA
Located on Millionaire's Row in Danville, this house, not to mention the street, is deserving of an article of its own. The home was built in 1876 and stands as a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, but with an eclectic flair. The brick and stucco home features a mansard roof tower, gabled roofs, and many stained glass windows.
As we said in the beginning, there’s no way to mention every structure that deserves to be featured in this article. All we can do is show you some of our favorites. But, as always, we want to hear about yours! Tell us about your favorite examples of architecture in Virginia in the comments below.
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More to Explore
architecture in Virginia
What are some of the most unique buildings in Virginia?
Virginia is filled with impressive architecture. Some of the most unique buildings in Virginia include:
- The Virginia Capitol Building
- Bacon's Castle
- Historic Christ Church
- George C. Marshall's Dodona Manor
- George Washington's Mount Vernon
- Jamestown Fort
- The "Spite" House
- Alexandria City Hall
Where can I see cool architecture in Virginia?
To see the most impressive collection of architecture in Virginia, head to Richmond. The following buildings will showcase some beautiful examples of cool architecture in Virginia:
- Agecroft Hall and Gardens
- Maymont
- The Carillon
- Byrd Theatre
- Talavera
- Columbia / Philip Haxall House
- Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
- The Hippodrome Theater
- The John Marshall House
- The Valentine
- Linden Row
- Monumental Church
- Egyptian Building
- The Poe Museum
What are some of the oldest buildings in Virginia?
There are plenty of buildings in Virginia that have stood the test of time. Many of these landmarks are several centuries old, in fact. Some of the oldest buildings in Virginia include:
- Jamestown Church, which was finished by 1647
- Belleville, a home in Ware Neck, Virginia
- Bacon's Castle, which was first built in 1665