The Paul Rudolph House (Modulightor Building) is one of the most fascinating residential buildings in New York City that you can actually visit on a guided tour. Designed by the renowned architect Paul Rudolph, a leading figure of Brutalism, this home looks more like a glass cube filled with a maze of levels than a traditional building. It’s also the only place in New York where you can see an original interior fully designed by Paul Rudolph — preserved exactly as he created it.
Who Was Paul Rudolph?
Paul Rudolph (1918–1997) was an American architect, a star of post-war modernism, and one of the key figures of American Brutalism. His works include the Yale School of Architecture, numerous government complexes, and university buildings around the world.
Rudolph’s style is marked by monumental mid-20th-century forms, heavy use of concrete, glass, and metal, and a total rejection of ornamentation.
The Architect’s Own Residence
The Modulightor Building served as Paul Rudolph’s personal residence, studio, and showroom. He approached the project as a pure architectural experiment — built on the principle of modularity, the structure is a multi-level cube made of light, glass, and concrete.
Inside, visitors find a labyrinth of half-floors, staircases, and balconies, where every turn reveals a new perspective. It remains the only place in New York where Rudolph’s original interior survives intact. The space still contains the architect’s custom-designed furniture, sketches, and personal library, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of a modernist master.
Visiting the Modulightor Building
The Modulightor Building regularly opens its doors to the public for special guided tours organized by the Paul Rudolph Institute for Modern Architecture. Knowledgeable docents share insights about the building’s history, design concepts, and Rudolph’s personal life, answering visitors’ questions along the way.
Because spots are limited for each open house, advance reservations are highly recommended. Don’t forget to bring your camera and sketchbook — every corner here is an inspiration.
Practical Information
Book your visit: paulrudolph.institute/open-house
Address: 246 E 58th St, New York, NY
Admission: $25
