How have buildings designed across the centuries and around the globe answered specific needs and embodied cultural values and ideals? And how have architects and designers responded to the demands of patrons, shifting technologies, and the evolving needs of users? In this three-part series, Kerr Houston will use 24 seminal examples to sketch a concise but diverse and informative history of world architecture.

In his first lecture of the series, professor Houston will discuss how – from an early date – buildings and built environments offered shelter and safety, but could also articulate social structures, accommodate complex religious rites, and nurture specific urban behaviors. This talk will focus on eight early structures including an Algonquin longhouse, the citadel of Tiryns, and Old St. Peter’s in Rome and offer brief allusions to other works to explore the richness and variety of prehistoric and ancient architecture.

$15 door fee for guests and subscribers