Mansions Of The Gilded Age
HOSTED BY AIA Connecticut
A closer look at the architecture, opulence, and personalities that defined an era
An inspiring evening of design, history, and storytelling, hosted by the Committee on Design. Enjoy light refreshments while connecting with colleagues and exploring one of the most fascinating eras in American architecture.
Program Overview
Spanning the period from the aftermath of the Civil War to the onset of the Great Depression, the Gilded Age was marked by rapid economic growth, cultural transformation, and extraordinary displays of wealth. America’s newly wealthy elite sought to assert their place in society by building grand residences inspired by European palaces—blending Old World elegance with American innovation and modern technology.
Drawing on unprecedented access to fifteen of the most remarkable private homes in the United States, presenter, Phillip James Dodd brings this era to life through the stories behind these extraordinary estates. The presentation explores not only their architectural significance, but also the compelling lives of those who built, designed, and inhabited them—figures ranging from industrial magnates and social elites to artists and visionaries.
From ambition and opulence to philanthropy, scandal, and tragedy, this program offers a vivid look at how architecture reflects the cultural and social dynamics of its time.
TICKETS: https://aiact.org/events/mansions-of-the-gilded-age/