20 Best Architectural Buildings in Ohio: Discover Top Landmarks and Design Gems

Ohio boasts a rich architectural heritage, showcasing a wide array of styles from different periods.

From historical landmarks to modern masterpieces, this state offers a diverse collection of buildings that capture the essence of its cultural evolution.

This article explores the 20 best architectural buildings in Ohio, providing a glimpse into their design, history, and significance.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply curious about Ohio’s architectural treasures, you will find buildings that highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of their eras.

These structures not only represent architectural brilliance but also tell stories of the time and people who built them.

1. Ohio Statehouse, Columbus

The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture.

Constructed from Columbus limestone, the building boasts a robust masonry design. The foundation stones for the Statehouse reach more than 18 feet deep.

Construction began on July 4, 1839, and took 22 years to complete.

The building houses the Ohio General Assembly, including the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The Statehouse also features expansive grounds with statues, monuments, and beautiful gardens, making it a focal point in downtown Columbus.

2. Cincinnati Music Hall, Cincinnati

Cincinnati Music Hall, completed in 1878, is a prime example of High Victorian Gothic architecture.

It was designed by Samuel Hannaford, highlighting features like polychrome bricks and intricate sandstone details.

The hall serves as the home to the Cincinnati Ballet, Symphony Orchestra, Opera, and May Festival Chorus.

This iconic building is located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, a nationally significant area undergoing revitalization.

Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, it remains a cultural and architectural treasure of Cincinnati. Explore more about its rich history here.

3. Terminal Tower, Cleveland

Terminal Tower in Cleveland is a 52-story skyscraper that stands 708 feet tall.

It was built during the skyscraper boom of the 1920s and 1930s.

For a long time, it was the tallest building in the world outside of New York City.

Terminal Tower remains a prominent symbol of Cleveland’s architectural history.

The building features an observation deck, offering views of the city’s skyline.

Built in 1927, Terminal Tower continues to be an iconic landmark on Public Square in downtown Cleveland. Learn more about its history here.

4. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron, Ohio, is a historic mansion and garden spanning 70 acres.

It is one of the largest houses in the United States.

Built between 1912 and 1915, it was the home of F. A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire.

The estate includes several beautifully landscaped gardens designed by Warren Manning.

The property features a greenhouse, carriage house, and the main mansion.

It is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and serves as an accredited museum with unique exhibits.

Thousands of visitors explore Stan Hywet’s gardens annually, enjoying the blend of art and nature.

5. Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton

The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, opened in 1963. It honors the greatest legends of pro football.

The building features modern architecture and interactive exhibits.

Visitors can explore a range of exhibits focusing on the history and impact of football.

This includes memorabilia and multimedia displays.

More than ten million football fans from around the world have visited this iconic landmark. For tickets and hours, you can visit their official site.

6. Cincinnati Union Terminal, Cincinnati

Cincinnati Union Terminal, located at 1301 Western Ave, is an iconic example of Art Deco architecture.

Designed by Fellheimer and Wagner with consultants Paul Philippe Cret and Roland Wank, it opened in 1933.

Originally a bustling train station, the terminal now houses the Cincinnati Museum Center.

The restoration efforts have preserved its historic charm.

The terminal spans a complex of 287 acres and includes 94 miles of track, making it a monumental symbol of the Machine Age.

This building continues to be a significant part of Cincinnati’s architectural heritage.

7. Westcott House, Springfield

The Westcott House in Springfield, Ohio, is a prime example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie Style.

Built in 1908 for Burton J. Westcott and his family, it is the only Prairie Style house designed by Wright in Ohio.

The house underwent a detailed $5.3 million restoration in 2005.

Today, it serves as one of the finest Wright house museums in the country.

Learn more about the Westcott House’s unique design and historical significance here.

8. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is an iconic landmark designed by architect I.M. Pei.

It boasts a striking 150,000-square-foot building featuring double pyramids and a tower.

The plaza outside, which covers 65,000 square feet, includes circular platforms and a performance stage surrounded by floral beds. This design creates a dynamic contrast with the building’s geometric forms.

Since its opening in 1995, it has played a crucial role in the regional economy. For further details, you can visit the official website.

9. Dayton Art Institute, Dayton

The Dayton Art Institute in Dayton, Ohio, is renowned for its extensive art collection that spans over 5,000 years of history.

It is considered one of the top art museums in the United States for children.

The building features Renaissance Italian architecture and offers picturesque views over downtown Dayton.

General admission is free, though some special exhibitions may require a fee.

Optionally, you can plan your visit using their website or learn more about the museum’s significance.

10. Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus

Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus opened its doors in 1895. Inspired by the Chicago World’s Fair, it features a grand Victorian-style glass greenhouse.

Visitors can enjoy more than 400 plant species.

The conservatory also showcases Dale Chihuly artworks, making it a unique blend of nature and art.

For more information, you can visit Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

11. Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion, Toledo

The Toledo Museum of Art Glass Pavilion showcases stunning architecture designed by SANAA. Opened in 2006, it houses a renowned glass collection.

This pavilion features two hot shops where visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations.

The facility is equipped with furnaces burning at 2150 degrees Fahrenheit.

Classes offered in the pavilion engage attendees in glass art, guided by internationally recognized teaching artists. Discover more about these programs at the Glass Studio.

12. Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas

Located in Pleasant Valley of Richland County, Malabar Farm State Park stands out for its unique architecture and history.

The Big House, designed by Pulitzer Prize-winning author and conservationist Louis Bromfield, features dormers inspired by the historic Inn at Zoar Village.

The park is a testament to Bromfield’s vision of sustainable agriculture and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973.

Visitors can explore the farm’s charming 1820s farmhouse, known as the Malabar Farm Inn, now a restaurant with modern upgrades.

Learn more about the park’s rich history here.

13. Cleveland Arcade, Cleveland

The Cleveland Arcade is a marvel from the Victorian era. Built in 1890, it features two nine-story buildings connected by a five-story arcade.

The structure’s glass skylight spans over 300 feet, providing a stunning view.

Financed by notable figures like Stephen V. Harkness, its construction cost was $867,000, a significant amount at the time.

Visitors can explore its beautiful architecture and historic charm. This makes it a popular destination in downtown Cleveland. Learn more from Architectural Afterlife.

14. Great American Tower, Cincinnati

The Great American Tower at Queen City Square stands as a prominent landmark in downtown Cincinnati.

Completed in 2011, it rises 41 stories and is the tallest building in the city.

Designed by Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum, the tower features a distinct tiara at its top, symbolizing its significance in the city’s skyline.

This contemporary skyscraper incorporates green building technologies, achieving LEED Gold certification.

It includes energy-efficient systems and floor-to-ceiling windows, showcasing amazing views of Cincinnati. The tower occupies a prime location in the heart of the business district.

Learn more about the Great American Tower’s modern design and impact on Cincinnati’s architecture here.

15. LeVeque Tower, Columbus

LeVeque Tower is an iconic landmark in downtown Columbus, Ohio. At 555 feet 5 inches tall, it was the tallest building in the city from its completion in 1927 until 1974. Today, it stands as the second tallest.

The 47-story skyscraper was designed by C. Howard Crane and features stunning Art Deco architecture.

Initially known as the American Insurance Union Citadel, it has undergone several name changes over the years.

Its exact address is 50 W. Broad Street. This architectural marvel is widely recognized for its unique silhouette against the city skyline and historical significance in Columbus.

16. Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland

The Cleveland Museum of Art is a key cultural landmark in the city.

Established in 1916, it showcases a neoclassical design with white Georgian marble. The museum’s main building is surrounded by lush, green spaces designed by the Olmsted Brothers.

A major renovation between 2001 and 2012 added a striking glass-roofed atrium.

This unifies the original building with new expansions, including the North Wing.

The museum’s permanent collection features over 61,000 works of art.

It is renowned for its comprehensive exhibits ranging from ancient to contemporary art.

17. Cincinnati Observatory, Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Observatory is located on Mount Lookout in Cincinnati. It is the oldest professional observatory in the United States, housing two large refracting telescopes.

These telescopes have apertures of 11 inches and 16 inches.

The observatory has been a key facility for astronomical research and education.

Visitors can take historic district tours and enjoy beautifully restored homes from the late 1800s nearby.

Learn more about the Cincinnati Observatory.

18. John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, Columbus

John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons is a notable park and green space in downtown Columbus, Ohio.

The park spans 6 acres and offers a variety of amenities.

These include gardens, a performance stage, a carousel, playground equipment, and foodservice buildings.

The park stands on the former site of the Columbus City Center mall.

It was developed by the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South Community Urban Redevelopment Corporation.

This urban oasis has become a vibrant part of the community, hosting many events and recreational activities throughout the year.

For more details, you can visit Columbus Commons website.

19. Tall Timbers Research Station, Ravenna

Tall Timbers Research Station in Ravenna stands out for its dedication to wildlife research and land conservation.

The station conducts studies on fire ecology, resource management, and game bird management.

The facility is committed to fostering exemplary land stewardship through education and conservation efforts.

Tall Timbers is located in the Red Hills Region and has been recognized for its scientific contributions and collaborative initiatives.

Learn more about their work on their official site.

20. Hayden Auditorium, Columbus

Hayden Auditorium in Columbus is a historic landmark known for its unique architectural style.

Built by industrialist Peter Hayden in 1873, the auditorium features a stunning High Victorian Italianate design.

The building’s façade is made of intricately carved sandstone, making it a rare example in Columbus.

Today, Hayden Auditorium serves as a multi-use venue, hosting various events and gatherings throughout the year.

You can learn more about its history here.

Historical Significance of Ohio’s Architecture

Ohio’s architecture reflects its rich history and diverse cultural heritage.

Important styles and preservation efforts highlight the state’s architectural journey from the 19th century to modern times.

Influences and Styles

Ohio’s architecture spans several influential styles.

In Cincinnati, the Italianate style is prominent. Buildings from the mid-1800s, found mostly in the Over-the-Rhine district, showcase Italianate brickwork and design elements, symbolizing the area’s growth and cultural diversity.

Ohio also features Greek Revival and Romanesque styles, especially in public buildings like courthouses and libraries.

The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, built starting in 1839, stands as a significant example of Greek Revival architecture, reflecting the classical ideals of democracy and governance.

Preservation Efforts

Preserving Ohio’s architectural heritage involves dedicated initiatives.

The Ohio Historic Inventory serves as a key resource, providing detailed records of significant structures.

This inventory helps guide local preservation efforts and ensures that historic buildings are maintained and protected.

Another important program is the National Register of Historic Places, which recognizes sites of exceptional historical value.

Initiatives like these ensure that Ohio’s architectural treasures are preserved for future generations, celebrating the state’s rich architectural history.

Architectural Trends in Ohio

Architectural trends in Ohio reflect a mix of modern developments and a focus on sustainable architecture.

These trends are shaping the urban landscape and influencing both design and construction practices across the state.

Modern Developments

Modern developments in Ohio include innovative uses of technology and forward-thinking designs.

In Columbus, the Miller House by Eero Saarinen is a standout example of mid-century modernism.

The integration of technology into architectural design is also gaining popularity.

For instance, the world’s first 3D-printed concrete bridge opened in Holland in 2017 and similar advancements are impacting Ohio’s architecture.

Large-scale projects often feature smart home technologies, energy-efficient systems, and interactive public spaces.

These features not only enhance functionality but also improve the overall living experience.

Contemporary architecture firms in Ohio, such as Abbot Studios LLC, are making significant strides in incorporating modern elements into residential, commercial, and corporate projects.

Sustainable Architecture

Sustainable architecture is a key focus in Ohio, aiming to reduce environmental impact through eco-friendly designs.

Many buildings now feature energy-efficient systems, green roofs, and sustainable materials.

The push towards sustainability is driven by both regulatory standards and a growing public awareness of environmental issues.

Projects like the adaptive reuse of historic buildings in Cincinnati show a commitment to preserving the past while adopting sustainable practices.

By retrofitting old structures with new, green technologies, these projects are reducing waste and promoting energy efficiency.

This trend is becoming more prevalent in both urban and rural areas, reflecting a statewide dedication to sustainable living and building practices.

Notable Architects and Their Contributions

Ohio is home to many renowned architects whose works have significantly impacted the architectural landscape. This section examines some of these prominent figures and their key projects that have left an indelible mark on the state.

Prominent Figures

Eero Saarinen: Known for his modernist designs, Saarinen contributed to Ohio’s architectural identity with structures like the Miller House in Columbus, completed in 1957. His use of clean lines and open spaces characterizes mid-century modernism.

Frank Lloyd Wright: Wright’s influence in Ohio includes the Westcott House in Springfield. As a hallmark of his Prairie School design, the house features horizontal lines and integration with the landscape, showcasing Wright’s philosophy of organic architecture.

Key Projects

Miller House by Eero Saarinen: Completed in 1957, the Miller House in Columbus is a prime example of mid-century modernism.

It stands out for its collaboration between Saarinen, interior designer Alexander Girard, and landscape architect Dan Kiley.

Westcott House by Frank Lloyd Wright: The Westcott House in Springfield represents Wright’s Prairie School design.

The house’s horizontal lines, flat roofs, and integration with nature reflect his commitment to creating harmonious architectural environments.