The Brutalist Dormitory Named For A Puritan

Harvard’s Mather House looks like a stark concrete fortress, but it is actually named after a strict 17th-century Puritan leader. This clash between modern architecture and colonial history makes it a unique campus landmark.

Opened in 1970, Mather House stands as a classic example of Brutalist architecture with its raw, angular concrete facade. It bears the name of Increase Mather, a prominent religious figure who steered Harvard during the late 1600s. While his era was defined by fire and brimstone, the building today serves as a vibrant, modern residential home for undergraduates. It remains a fascinating visual reminder of how history and academic innovation collide on university campuses.