Transformative Visions: Washington University’s East End, Then and Now

Transformative Visions: Washington University’s East End, Then and Now examines the rich history of architectural planning and design for the east end of Washington University’s Danforth Campus. Located between the iconic Brookings Hall and the western edge of St. Louis’s renowned Forest Park, the east end has long been considered the main entry to the University, serving as a gateway from the surrounding city to the academic space of campus. The history of this area reflects the history of the University as a whole and reaches back to the end of the 19th century, during a time of significant transition in American higher education. Through archival photographs, architectural drawings, and models, Transformative Visions explores the complex relationship between planning and design as well as the broad range of theories and design strategies architects have used to shape this part of campus.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website