Last updated: June 8, 2024
Place
New York State Capitol
Olmsted Archives
Quick Facts
In 1867, construction on the New York State Capitol in Albany began, though Frederick Law Olmsted wasn’t asked to join the project till 1874. While Olmsted was asked to advise on the Capitol’s expansion and improvement, several disagreements occurred between Olmsted and the State Officials on the architectural style of the ground floor, as well as Olmsted’s additions.
The 1876 Report of the Advisory Board declared that “the Capitol should be an architectural monument worthy of the grandeur of the Empire state.” At this point, the Advisory Board took over design control from Olmsted, suggesting a balcony and both inner and outer staircases should be included to add to the building’s status. All further design choices were made to add interest and beauty to the Capitol’s exterior.
Source: "New York State Captiol," Olmsted Online
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr
The 1876 Report of the Advisory Board declared that “the Capitol should be an architectural monument worthy of the grandeur of the Empire state.” At this point, the Advisory Board took over design control from Olmsted, suggesting a balcony and both inner and outer staircases should be included to add to the building’s status. All further design choices were made to add interest and beauty to the Capitol’s exterior.
Source: "New York State Captiol," Olmsted Online
For more information and primary resources, please visit:
Olmsted Research Guide Online
Olmsted Archives on Flickr