Upstate New York Buildings Land on National “Ugliest Buildings” List

Buffalo got a national shoutout but not the kind you frame on your wall. In a new poll of more than 3,000 people, Buffalo City Court was voted the third ugliest public building in all of America. The concrete heavy courthouse, with its grid like façade, makes an impression, but the survey takers said it feels more cold than civic or welcoming.

Other New York Buildings Made the List Too

Buffalo wasn’t alone in this less than flattering ranking. Two other New York public buildings also made the top 100. The Monroe County Hall of Justice in Rochester came in at number 18, with voters calling out its concrete heavy design that feels more intimidating than inspiring.

Meanwhile, the Westchester County Office Building landed at number 40, criticized for its mid century “corporate office” look that feels outdated and plain.

Why These Buildings Stand Out

The survey, done by the New Jersey Real Estate Network, asked Americans to weigh in on civic buildings all over the country, from courthouses to city halls. While some cities show off stunning architecture, others are remembered for their “utilitarian charm.” In other words, these buildings were built to get the job done but not to win any beauty contests.

What New Yorkers Think

Here in New York, people are used to good-looking architecture so when public buildings end up looking more like concrete boxes than civic landmarks, it’s not surprising they get some criticism. Whether you love them or not, places like Buffalo City Court and the Monroe County Hall of Justice are part of the daily fabric of life in their communities.

The Big Picture

Across the U.S., plenty of government buildings lean more on function than flair, and New York has its fair share. Buffalo, Rochester, and Westchester may not be thrilled about making this list, but it does highlight a bigger question: should public buildings inspire us, or just get the job done?

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If you want to see where the100 most unattractive public buildings across the country are located, go here.