Billings, Montana is a city rich in architectural history and innovation, reflecting its unique blend of cultural influences and natural beauty.
From historic structures built in the early 20th century to modern high-rises that shape the skyline today, this city offers a diverse array of impressive buildings.
This article will highlight the 10 best architectural buildings in Billings, Montana, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry that have gone into creating these landmarks.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply curious to learn more about the city’s built environment, this guide will cover the most notable structures that define Billings.
1. The Moss Mansion
The Moss Mansion, built in 1903, stands as a significant landmark in Billings, Montana.
It was designed by renowned architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, known for designing the original Waldorf Astoria and Plaza Hotels.
Located at 914 Division Street, the mansion showcases exquisite craftsmanship and décor.
The mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and celebrates the accomplishments of Preston Boyd Moss, an influential entrepreneur in the region.
Today, it serves as a cultural center, offering various tours and events.
Visitors can enjoy the historic neighborhood surrounding the mansion. For more information, visit the Moss Mansion Museum.
2. St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral is a key landmark in Billings.
Built in the Gothic Revival style, it was completed in 1904 at a cost of $64,000. Its impressive spire once made it the tallest building in Billings.
The cathedral has been a central part of the community’s cultural and spiritual life. It offers regular Mass services and events, keeping its historical and religious significance alive.
For more information, visit St. Patrick’s Co-Cathedral in Billings, Montana.
3. Western Heritage Center
The Western Heritage Center is located in historic downtown Billings, Montana.
The center is housed in the former Parmly Billings Memorial Library, a stunning example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture built in 1901.
Visitors can explore various exhibits and programs that showcase the history and culture of the Yellowstone River Valley.
The center offers guided walking tours and custom group tours, enhancing the educational experience.
For more information, visit the Western Heritage Center.
4. The Rims
The Rims, or rimrock sandstone formations, are a defining feature of Billings, Montana.
These formations were created around eighty million years ago when the area was part of the Western Interior Seaway.
Today, The Rims offer unique geological landscapes and impressive views over the city.
For those wanting to explore The Rims, hiking trails provide a closer look at this natural marvel.
5. The Billings Depot
The Billings Depot was built in 1909 for use by three railroad companies: Northern Pacific, Great Northern, and Chicago, Burlington and Quincy. It is designed in the Beaux Arts Eclectic style.
The original buildings included the main depot building, a railroad lunch room, a postal building, and an office building.
The depot is located downtown, close to shopping and dining.
Today, the Billings Depot is a popular venue for weddings, concerts, and community events.
It remains an important part of Billings’ history and cultural heritage. Learn more about this historic site here.
6. The Yellowstone Art Museum
The Yellowstone Art Museum stands as a key cultural site in Billings, Montana.
Founded in 1964, the museum showcases contemporary and historic art from the Rocky Mountain West.
Visitors can explore over 3,000 pieces, including works by cowboy illustrator Will James.
The museum also features the Visible Vault, a unique art storage facility that allows public access.
Special hours extend on the first Friday of each month, offering more time to enjoy its exhibits.
Learn more about the museum and plan your visit here.
7. Rehberg Ranch
Rehberg Ranch is an appealing residential subdivision in Billings.
Just an 8-minute drive from downtown, this community offers a traditional western feel.
The neighborhood features breathtaking views and scenic nature trails. It is known for its beautiful wildlife and serene atmosphere.
Families appreciate the balance of rural charm and city convenience.
For more information, visit Rehberg Ranch.
8. Rimrock Mall
Rimrock Mall in Billings, Montana, opened on September 11, 1975. The design was crafted by architects from a Los Angeles-based firm. On its opening day, it saw 10,000 cars enter its premises, a testament to its popularity.
The mall features over 60 specialty shops and three anchor stores: Dillard’s Women’s & Children’s, Dillard’s Men’s & Home, and JC Penney.
The mall operates from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday to Saturday, and 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays. For more information, visit their directory.
9. The Boot Hill Cemetery
The Boot Hill Cemetery, also known as Coulson Cemetery, is a historic burial ground in Billings, Montana. It served the ghost town of Coulson from 1877 to 1882. The cemetery earned its name because many people buried there died with their boots on.
Today, efforts are ongoing to restore and preserve this piece of history.
The Friends of Coulson Boothill Cemetery work to maintain the site and honor those interred there.
The cemetery is significant to Billings and Montana.
10. Skypoint
Skypoint is a notable landmark in downtown Billings.
It was built over 20 years ago and has become a central meeting spot for locals.
The structure is impressive, providing a mix of modern design amidst historic buildings.
Recent plans include major renovations to maintain its condition and functionality.
Skypoint’s sleek design adds to the architectural diversity of the area, making it a must-see in Billings.
Architectural History of Billings
Billings boasts a rich architectural heritage.
From its beginnings as a railroad hub to the rise of modern design, the city showcases a wide array of styles.
Early Development and Influences
Billings was founded in 1882 by the Northern Pacific Railway. The early architecture reflects its rapid growth as a railroad hub.
Initially, the town was lined with canvas tents and simple wooden structures.
By 1883, more permanent buildings began to emerge.
The McAdow Building, constructed in 1882, embodies this early phase.
Merchants built false-front buildings to mimic more elaborate architecture. Brick buildings, like the 1884 L and L Building, started to appear, adding permanence and resilience to the cityscape.
Railroad companies heavily influenced the architectural style during this period.
Many materials and ornate details were shipped in, such as sheet-metal cornices and cast-iron storefronts.
Modern Architectural Trends
As Billings grew, so did its architectural diversity.
The early 20th century saw the construction of taller and more sophisticated buildings like the Stapleton Building, completed in 1904.
This building included a department store and offices, demonstrating a shift toward multi-use developments.
Today, Billings embraces both its historic roots and modern aesthetics.
Contemporary designs incorporate local materials and reflect the region’s unique climate.
This blend of old and new can be seen across various neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s ongoing evolution in design and functionality.
Architect firms such as High Plains Architects are committed to sustainable and place-responsive design, highlighting the city’s focus on preserving its architectural integrity while embracing new trends.
Prominent Architectural Styles
Billings, Montana, showcases a wide array of architectural styles that highlight its rich historical and cultural evolution. The key styles in this city include Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, and Contemporary Designs.
Art Deco
Art Deco architecture in Billings is characterized by bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and lavish ornamentation.
This style, which gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, marked a shift towards modernity and luxury.
One notable example is the Stapleton Building, designed in 1904.
Although it predates the typical Art Deco period, its later renovations incorporated many Art Deco elements, such as the use of sleek lines and metallic finishes.
These buildings often include stylized motifs like zigzags, chevrons, and sunbursts, making them visually striking and reflective of the era’s technological optimism.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern architecture in Billings emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and integration with nature.
This style, prevalent from the 1940s to the 1960s, features open floor plans, large windows, and the use of natural materials.
An excellent example in Billings can be found in the numerous residential projects by local architects who embraced the clean lines and unadorned surfaces that define this era.
The design philosophy focuses on removing unnecessary details, creating spaces that feel open and connected to the outdoors.
This approach not only caters to aesthetic preferences but also addresses practical needs for efficient living.
Contemporary Designs
Contemporary architectural designs in Billings reflect a blend of sustainability, innovation, and responsiveness to local environments.
Firms like High Plains Architects are at the forefront, integrating local materials and green building practices.
Contemporary buildings often feature sleek, minimalist aesthetics combined with high-performance materials and technologies such as solar panels and energy-efficient windows.
The designs aim to enhance functionality while minimizing environmental impact, ensuring that the structures are both beautiful and sustainable.
This style represents a commitment to forward-thinking and eco-friendly construction, tailored to the unique climatic and cultural context of Montana.
Influential Architects in Billings
Billings, Montana, boasts a range of architects who have significantly influenced the city’s architectural landscape. From innovative designs to impactful restorations, these professionals have shaped the city’s built environment.
Local Visionaries
High Plains Architects is a notable firm in Billings.
Their mission focuses on designing architecture that enhances the unique climate and cultural traditions of Montana.
The firm emphasizes using local materials and responding to the distinct character of the plains.
Randy Hafer, a leading architect at the firm, gave a TEDx talk inspired by their Urban Frontier House.
His vision tackles environmental issues by incorporating sustainable building practices.
LRWoehler & Associates is another influential group in Billings.
Known for their excellence, they’ve won multiple awards, including the Best of Houzz.
Len Woehler leads this firm, recognized for restoring a 1930’s craftsman bungalow magnificently.
Impactful Projects
The Stapleton Building, designed in 1904, stands as a testament to architectural resilience.
Originally housing a department store and offices, it fell into disrepair by the late 1990s. High Plains Architects restored this building, turning it into a vibrant part of downtown Billings.
The Billings Public Library, completed in 2015 by will bruder+PARTNERS, offers a modern twist on community spaces.
The library’s design features transparency and sustainability, making it a dynamic addition to the city.
Urban Frontier House, another project by High Plains Architects, addresses significant environmental challenges.
This house exemplifies innovative solutions for sustainable living in the plains of Montana, showcasing new architectural possibilities.