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Smithsonian Building Model, north facade Enlargement

Renwick built an elaborate and detailed model which was based on plans approved by the Board of Regents. The painted model shows a three story central building. To cut costs, the Regents directed that the number of floors in the building's central section be reduced from the three shown here to two.

Smithsonian Building Model, south facade Enlargement

Renwick's model included two options for a second tower at the north entrance. One, with a pointed roof, which contrasted with the taller flat-topped tower, was selected by the Regents. The second option which matched the existing taller tower would have given the building a symmetrical appearance. (The model for the optional flat-tower is shown on the right side of the photograph.)

When the Smithsonian Building was built, it became a model for designers of collegiate buildings such as these:

Antioch Hall Enlargement

Antioch Hall, Antioch College, Ohio (Original design: 1852)

The two tall central towers with round arch windows and a false gable evoked the Smithsonian Building.

Davis Hall Enlargement

Davis Hall, Worcester Academy, Massachussetts (Original design: 1852)

Elbridge Boyden designed this building, originally a medical college, in a medieval revival style similar to that of the Smithsonian Building.

Douglas Hall Enlargement

Douglas Hall, University of Chicago (1856-1886)
(Original design: 1857-1866)

The asymmetry of the Smithsonian Building was reflected in the design of Douglas Hall, built in 1857-1866 for the first University of Chicago (1856-1886). Many features—the tall front tower with its distinctive finials and round window, the oriel, the round arch windows, the battlements, and the buttresses—link this collegiate building with Renwick's design for the Smithsonian Building.

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