Georgetown University: An Architectural History

A comprehensive guide to the history of Georgetown University’s iconic buildings and campus spaces

This book provides a close look at over fifty campus buildings and their history from Georgetown’s founding in 1789 through today. Illustrations accompanying the text include historical images from the university archives, vibrant current photographs, and multiple maps covering all campuses.

Rufino describes the work of leading historical and contemporary architects. She depicts the history of buildings that exemplify a host of architectural styles, including Federal, Romanesque Revival, Gothic Revival, International Style, Brutalist, and Postmodern. She sets the evolution of the university’s built environment against the backdrop of its social and cultural history--including its involvement with slavery, the ever changing makeup of its student body, and its development into a modern research university.

Enthusiasts of American architecture as well as Georgetown University’s students, parents, alumni, administrators, faculty, and staff members will enjoy this informative and beautifully illustrated look at familiar haunts from a different perspective.

Stephanie J. Rufino, PhD, received her doctorate from the University of Virginia and taught architectural history at Georgetown University for a decade.