What is a city hall?

 Is considered as the chief administrative building of a city or town.

 Is known by other names, such as town hall, civic centre or -more rarely- a municipal building.

 City halls were traditionally built only with government functions in mind, however designers from
more recent generations have considered a great variety and flexibility in their designs.

 Considered to be a core item in defining a city’s identity.

Notable City Halls (foreign):

These cities have made the decision to leave behind the distinct, classic and refined yet somewhat
overused way city halls are designed, and instead opted for a more modern take.

Toronto City Hall

Designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell and landscape architect Richard Strong

Opened in 1965

It was built to replace the old city hall, which was built in 1899
San Jose City Hall

Designed by Richard Meier

Opened in 2005

Before its opening, officials met in a park in Downtown San Jose

Dallas City Hall

Designed by I.M. Pei

Dallas was dubbed, the “City of Hate” following Kennedy’s assassination

Was designed in three phases

Opened to the public in 1978

Spaces usually found in a city hall include:
Design Guidelines: Public Buildings

City Halls / Civic Centers

- Application of all laws and provisions on design and construction.

- Heavy, public-oriented / transactional areas must be at the ground floor.

- Presence of government line agencies.

- Flagpole and assembly areas.

- Provide social and recreational facilities.