AIA Indiana has recognized Columbus City Hall with its prestigious 25 Year Award. The award celebrates historic Indiana architecture that has contributed to the state’s canon of excellent design. Only one project is awarded each year.
Completed in 1981, the SOM-designed building establishes a strong, modern identity for the city of Columbus through its unique right triangle geometry, simple finishes, and contemporary art program. At the same time, elements of Columbus City Hall subtly pay respect to its surroundings, including the semi-circular, double-story curtain wall entrance, which reflects the historic Bartholomew County Courthouse located across the street.
SOM has a long history of design work in Columbus, a town known for fostering modernism in the Midwest. The firm completed a master plan for its downtown in 1972. SOM also completed the famous newspaper plant and offices for The Republic, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2012.