In 2023, Brown opened its long-anticipated Lindemann Performing Arts Center. Though it was touted as “state-of-the-art,” the Lindemann has largely disappointed students, becoming a frequent target of criticism. This reaction points to a deeper issue: Some of Brown’s modern architectural choices reflect an administration that misunderstands what successful collegiate architecture demands. When buildings neglect function, accessibility or historical awareness, they fail not only in form but in purpose.
While criticism comes easily, the more compelling question is: What exactly is missing from the structures we complain about, and what defines successful architecture? When we think of well-built structures, especially within the collegiate setting, we think of spaces that support and invite those who use them every day. In order to abide by the needs of its frequent visitors — students and staff — buildings must be at once visually compelling, intuitive to navigate, inclusive in use and flexible in purpose. The right combination of aesthetic appeal and proper function is difficult but achievable.
The Lindemann’s most obvious shortcoming is its failure to serve the people it was built for. While the structure’s visual appeal is debatable, its lack of functionality and accessibility is almost certain. The building’s futuristic design comes at a serious cost. Its ridge-like metal exterior and the dramatic second floor — suspended as if floating — lifts the lobby above ground. As a result, the building becomes accessible mainly via a narrow stairway that leads to a bottlenecked entrance, which is nearly impossible to navigate during crowded events. Additionally, the building elicits frequent complaints from students about lack of availability and opportunities to engage with the performance space.
In contrast, the Perry and Marty Granoff Center for the Creative Arts — completed in 2011 and located directly across from the Lindemann — shows how modern architecture can succeed when function and form are aligned. While the Lindemann promises a pioneering vision, Granoff delivers it. Designed by the same firm behind the High Line and the Shed in New York City, Granoff features a staggered glass facade and similarly exposed interiors. But within, it presents a fluid, open space that is genuinely inviting and porous. Glass is used intelligently, allowing for openness within the interior while maintaining a much-needed sense of separation.
Additionally, many of Brown’s architectural decisions show a disregard for the historic and material context of the campus. To build the Lindemann in its designated spot, the Sharpe House, home to the History Department, had to be literally uprooted and relocated in 2018. The brick and limestone building, erected in neoclassical style, was quickly relegated to a corner. This relocation is a symbolic attempt to “move” history out of the way for modern ambitions.
This tension between the historic architectural landscape and modern compliments is not new. In the ’60s and ’70s, the University opened the List Art Building, the Sciences Library, New Pembroke and Graduate Center — four buildings that indicated a decisive shift toward brutalist architecture. These structures share a defining characteristic that seems at odds with the nature of Brown students: They are bleak and uninviting. Together, the buildings introduce an overwhelming expanse of concrete to College Hill — a harsh and austere material that disregards the surrounding warm, historic architectural fabric.
As Brown continues to build and develop, it must adopt a clearer architectural vision — one more preoccupied with student use and historical awareness. That means inviting student and staff input from the beginning, thus ensuring transparency in architectural commissions. Architectural choices are critical to our lived experience at Brown, so we should have a say. Perhaps, before commissioning the next addition to campus, Brown should first ask what makes architecture successful on College Hill.
Julia Barrozo ’26 can be reached at julia_barrozo_do_amaral@brown.edu. Please send responses to this column to letters@browndailyherald.com and other opinions to opinions@browndailyherald.com.
