Idaho is home to an array of stunning architectural buildings that showcase a blend of historical and modern design.
From historic landmarks to contemporary masterpieces, the state’s architecture reflects its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit.
Discovering the 20 best architectural buildings in Idaho offers a unique glimpse into the state’s diverse architectural landscape.
Each building tells a unique story, contributing to the vibrant architectural tapestry of Idaho.
1. Boise Depot
The Boise Depot, built in 1925, is known for its stunning Spanish-style architecture.
Designed by New York architects Carrere, Hastings, Shreve, and Lando, it stands out with its beige walls and colorful trim.
Situated on the Boise Bench, the depot offers a beautiful view of Capitol Boulevard and the Idaho State Capitol.
It is recognized as a significant historic site and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The depot underwent a $3.4 million renovation in 1993 to restore its original charm.
2. Ketchum Sun Valley Library
The Ketchum Sun Valley Library, known officially as the Community Library in Ketchum, stands as a cultural landmark in central Idaho.
It showcases mid-century architecture and offers extensive resources to the public.
Located in the picturesque Sun Valley area, the library has undergone significant renovations, including a recent $12.5 million expansion.
This project revitalized its spaces and programs, blending history with modern innovation.
Visitors can explore the Hemingway House and Preserve nearby, which adds historical value to their experience.
The library is more than just a place to read; it’s a community hub for creativity and learning.
3. University of Idaho Admin Building
The University of Idaho Administration Building is a notable structure on the Moscow campus.
Built with red-pressed brick and Boise sandstone trim, it showcases a distinctive Gothic style.
The building features a three-story design with ivy-covered exterior walls that add to its charm.
Its north wing houses an auditorium on the first floor, an integral part of campus life.
This building holds historical importance. The original structure caught fire in 1906, and efforts by faculty and students saved many valuable items.
You can find more details here.
4. Assay Office
The Assay Office, located at 210 Main Street in Boise, Idaho, opened in 1872. It was pivotal in assessing and processing gold from Idaho’s mines.
Designed by architect Alfred B. Mullett, the building showcases an “Italian Villa” style.
The office ceased operations in 1933 and now serves as the headquarters for the Boise National Forest.
This historic building reflects significant aspects of Idaho’s mining history. Learn more about the Assay Office here.
5. Bethine Church River Trail
Bethine Church River Trail is a scenic trail located in Boise, Idaho.
It is a 2.7-mile out-and-back route that is popular for birding, hiking, and walking.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the river while observing riparian vegetation and wildlife nesting spots.
The trail is open year-round and offers beautiful views of the Boise River.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited within 20 feet of the trail and the Boise River Greenbelt. For more information, visit the Bethine Church River Trail page.
6. Clarence Bisbee House
The Clarence Bisbee House is located near Twin Falls, Idaho. Bisbee, a prominent photographer, moved to the area in 1906.
This house offers a glimpse into early 20th-century architecture in the Magic Valley. It is notable for its historic significance and unique features.
The Clarence Bisbee House remains a testament to the life and work of an important figure in Idaho’s history. Learn more about Clarence E. Bisbee and his contributions to the Twin Falls area.
7. Mountain Home Air Force Base Chapel
The Mountain Home Air Force Base Chapel is located on 350 Willow Street in the base’s cantonment area.
Built in 1943 as part of the WWII 800 Series buildings, it was the only chapel among the 343 buildings constructed.
The chapel serves the spiritual needs of the base community. It hosts Catholic Mass on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. and Protestant Worship Service at 11:00 a.m.
For more details, you can visit the Mountain Home Air Force Base Chapel’s Facebook page.
8. Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center
The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center is a prime destination for those interested in ancient history and fossils.
Located in Hagerman, Idaho, it offers a wealth of information about the monument’s rich fossil deposits.
Visitors can learn about Pliocene-era animals like saber-toothed cats and mastodons. The center provides exhibits, educational displays, and informative materials.
For more details, visit the Visitor Center’s page on the National Park Service website. For additional questions, call (208) 933-4105.
9. Cataldo Mission
Cataldo Mission, also known as the Mission of the Sacred Heart, is the oldest standing building in Idaho.
Built between 1850 and 1853, this historic site showcases a “simplified Baroque” architectural style.
Catholic missionaries and members of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe constructed the mission. Today, it stands proud at Old Mission State Park, drawing visitors interested in its history and architecture.
This landmark has undergone several restorations to ensure its preservation.
In 1974, an archeologist from the University of Idaho conducted significant work to identify major buildings on the complex site at Cataldo Mission.
10. TBIK Office
TBIK Office, located in downtown Boise, is known for its minimalist design and efficient use of space.
The building features large windows that allow natural light to flood the interior, creating a bright and welcoming environment.
The architecture incorporates sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems. This focus on sustainability reflects the firm’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
The TBIK Office also includes collaborative workspaces and state-of-the-art facilities, making it a modern and innovative workplace.
The building’s sleek exterior and thoughtful design make it a standout in Boise’s architectural landscape.
11. Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary, located east of Boise, first opened its doors in 1872.
Built from sandstone quarried by the inmates themselves, it stands as a historical site with a rich past.
The prison housed over 13,000 inmates during its 101 years of operation.
Visitors today can explore 30 historic buildings and special exhibits, including a collection of historic weaponry.
Guided and self-guided tours are available for those looking to learn more about the penitentiary’s history and architecture. Details can be found on the Idaho State Historical Society’s website.
12. City Hall, Twin Falls
The Twin Falls City Hall is a notable example of adaptive reuse. The building was originally a 1940s retail space.
Hummel Architects designed the new City Hall to support the downtown revitalization of Twin Falls. The building now serves a community of around 50,000 residents.
This project consolidates existing services and plans for the city’s growth. More information can be found on the Hummel Architects website.
13. Moscow City Hall
Moscow City Hall is located in Moscow, Idaho.
Built in 1911, this building showcases Late Victorian and Eclectic architectural styles.
It was originally known as the Moscow Post Office and Courthouse.
The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 3, 1973. For more details, you can visit the Moscow City Hall page.
14. The Egyptian Theatre
The Egyptian Theatre in Boise is a stunning example of Egyptian revival architecture.
It was designed by Frederick C. Hummel and inspired by King Tut’s tomb, discovered in 1922.
Built in 1927, it quickly became the most opulent movie palace in Idaho. The theatre has undergone several renovations, including a major restoration in 1999.
With its unique design and historical significance, it remains a key cultural landmark.
Visitors can explore the building’s detailed interiors and enjoy various events held at the venue. Learn more about this architectural gem here.
15. Sun Valley Lodge
The Sun Valley Lodge was the first building completed at the Sun Valley Resort.
Opened on December 21, 1936, it features 220 guest rooms.
The lodge was designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood. He also worked on national parks like Grand Canyon and Zion.
Underwood’s design blends luxury with a rustic, alpine feel.
16. Zions Bank Building
The Zions Bank Building, also known as Eighth & Main, is the tallest structure in Idaho, standing at 323 feet.
Located in downtown Boise, it reaches 18 stories high.
Construction began in 2012 and was completed in early 2014.
The building’s grand opening on February 15, 2014, marked a significant moment for Boise.
This building transformed a previously neglected corner of the city into an iconic part of Boise’s skyline.
It houses various tenants including Zions Bank and law firm Holland & Hart.
17. Packard’s Window
Packard’s Window showcases stunning stained glass artistry located in Boise.
It features intricate designs and vibrant colors that captivate visitors.
This window is part of a historic building that dates back to the early 20th century.
The window has become a landmark for its beautiful craftsmanship and cultural significance. It draws art enthusiasts and history buffs alike to appreciate its detailed work and historical context.
18. Ada County Courthouse
The Ada County Courthouse, now known as the Capitol Annex building, is an iconic structure in Boise, Idaho.
Built between 1938 and 1939, it features nine stories.
Initially, its lower floors housed offices, with courtrooms on the third floor and jail cells in the upper levels.
A key element in the Boise Capitol Area District, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The courthouse’s design and history reflect its importance in Idaho’s political and government heritage.
19. NEZ Perce National Historical Park
NEZ Perce National Historical Park is a collection of 38 sites across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. These sites commemorate the Nez Perce tribe’s history and culture.
One notable location is the Spalding Visitor Center, 11 miles east of Lewiston. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s rich heritage.
The park also includes parts of the historic Nez Perce trail, which Lewis and Clark used in 1805 and 1806.
20. Old County Courthouse, Wallace
The Old County Courthouse in Wallace, Idaho, is an important historical building completed in 1907. It is located at 700 Bank Street, Wallace, ID 83873, and is well-known for its resilience, having survived the 1910 Fire.
In 1898, the Shoshone County seat moved from Murray to Wallace. Shortly after, the courthouse was constructed, reflecting the period’s architectural style.
The courthouse stands as a testament to Wallace’s rich history, showcasing the resilience and legacy of the early 20th century in northern Idaho.
It remains a significant landmark in the area.
Architectural Styles in Idaho
Idaho boasts a diverse array of architectural styles, each bringing unique characteristics to the region. This section highlights some prominent styles: Gothic Revival, Colonial Revival, and Modernist influences.
Gothic Revival
Gothic Revival architecture came to Idaho in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This style is marked by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
Buildings often feature intricate stone or brickwork and tall, narrow windows with stained glass.
A notable example of Gothic Revival architecture in Idaho is the St. John’s Cathedral in Boise.
Its impressive structure showcases the characteristic details of the Gothic Revival style, making it a significant landmark. The style brought a sense of grandeur and historical depth to the state’s architectural landscape.
Colonial Revival
Colonial Revival emerged as a prominent style in Idaho during the early 20th century. This style draws inspiration from early American colonial architecture, featuring symmetrical facades, gabled roofs, and columns.
Decorative crown pediments above doors and windows are also common elements.
In Idaho, the Eichelberger House in Boise is a classic representation of Colonial Revival.
This style aimed to evoke a sense of tradition and nostalgia, playing a significant role in residential design across the state. Homes built in this style often exhibit an inviting and historic charm, resonating with many Idahoans.
Modernist Influences
Modernist architecture made its way to Idaho in the mid-20th century, characterized by clean lines, functional design, and the use of new materials.
This style often includes open floor plans, large glass windows, and flat or low-pitched roofs.
An example of Modernist influence is the Lower Broadford Residence designed by Michael Doty Associates.
The design emphasizes simplicity, integration with the surrounding landscape, and the innovative use of space. Modernist buildings in Idaho reflect a shift towards contemporary aesthetics and practical living, offering a contrast to more historical styles.
Historical Significance
Idaho’s architectural buildings offer a glimpse into the early settlements that shaped the state. Additionally, these structures played crucial roles in Idaho’s development in various ways.
Early Settlements
The architectural history of Idaho dates back to its early settlements. One key example is the Fort Hall Replica, which provides insight into the life of early settlers.
This historic site captures the essence of early trading posts that were vital for pioneers.
Another important site is the Nampa Train Depot, built in 1903. This ornately designed building grew around the Oregon Short Line Railroad, which bypassed Boise.
The depot’s construction and subsequent growth highlight the strategic importance of railroad routes in the development of early settlements in Idaho.
These settlements often grew around such strategic points, reflecting the significance of transportation and trade routes in shaping early communities.
Role in State Development
Historic architectural buildings in Idaho have also greatly contributed to state development. For instance, the preservation efforts by organizations like Preservation Idaho protect sites that embody Idaho’s unique heritage.
Train depots such as the one in Nampa played critical roles in the economic and social development of the region.
Their existence facilitated the movement of goods and people, which was pivotal for economic growth.
Additionally, structures cataloged by the Idaho Architecture Project serve as educational resources that promote appreciation for Idaho’s architectural and historical narrative.
Such buildings and efforts not only preserve history but also contribute to the state’s cultural and educational development.
Architectural Preservation Efforts
Idaho has a rich architectural history, and many organizations and projects are dedicated to preserving its unique buildings. These efforts ensure that historical and architectural gems continue to be appreciated by future generations.
Preservation Organizations
One key player in preserving Idaho’s architectural heritage is Preservation Idaho.
For over 50 years, they have protected many historic places across the state. Their focus is on ensuring that property owners understand and value the historical significance of their buildings.
Another important effort is the Idaho Architecture Project.
This community-driven initiative catalogs historic properties, allowing anyone to contribute. This project has become a valuable statewide resource that involves students, historians, and the general public in documenting and celebrating Idaho’s architectural history.
Restoration Projects
Several notable restoration projects highlight the state’s commitment to preserving its architectural heritage.
For instance, the detailed work on restoring the Old Idaho Penitentiary showcases efforts to maintain historical accuracy while bringing new life to a significant site.
Another example is the preservation of homes and buildings in downtown Boise, where groups have worked to save structures from redevelopment pressures.
Projects like these ensure that historic buildings remain integral parts of the community. They maintain the architectural charm and historical context that make Idaho unique.
These restoration endeavors demonstrate a balance between preserving history and accommodating modern needs.