Enlightenment and beauty. Democracy and power.

Over the centuries, architects of capitols, courthouses and even libraries have sought to both project confidence in the democratic process and invite citizens to participate. Through the sweeping panoramic photography of Thomas R. Schiff, Civic Architecture celebrates and studies that nation’s long tradition of civic architecture.

From small county courthouses to the U.S. Capitol, consider how we express our highest ideals in the structures of our buildings. See how these civic structures have changed – from exalted temples to organic forms – and consider how these centers of government have sought to rise above or blend in with their surrounding landscapes.

About the Photographer

Thomas R. Schiff is one of the United States’ outstanding architectural photographers. He has produced over a dozen books featuring many of America’s significant landmarks and architects – from I.M. Pei and Zaha Hadid, to Philip Johnson and Moshe Safdie. Schiff’s unique panoramic camera captures building interiors in a full 360° sweep, immersing viewers in spectacular vistas and allowing them to see architecture from new angles and perspectives.