Mission 66 and Modern Architecture

Mission 66 was a 10-year, billion-dollar initiative to modernize and revitalize the park system. Taking place from 1956 to 1966, this program funded the construction of thousands of new structures. Before development kicked off, National Park Service staff went to work establishing new design standards reflective of the era.

For the Mission 66 era, architects sought to marry contemporary motifs with a timeless, natural aesthetic that stayed true to the National Park Service ethos. The outcome was a new style described as Modern Movement or Park Service Modern.

The Modern aesthetic is characterized by long and low designs and the use of cost-effective construction techniques and materials such as steel, concrete, and prefabricated elements. Common elements include more generous use of glass and steel, including the frequent feature of sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows. Many Modern buildings feature natural colors, textures, and use of accent materials that help harmonize the structures with both existing Rustic-era construction and the natural environment.

Rustic buildings are highly visible, ornate structures that both harmonize with their environment and draw attention to themselves as sights to be seen. Mission 66-era park leadership instead favored building designs and locations that would be more hidden and subtle features within the landscape. While Rustic lodges and buildings carry the romanticism and nostalgia of early park heritage, the Modern style blends with the natural environment in a more understated, utilitarian fashion.

Landscape architects were especially mindful of the overall context in which these structures would exist. Rather than simply designing the building in isolation, they carefully considered how the new construction would blend with surrounding vegetation, views, and other natural elements. They chose orientation of buildings and established circulation patterns that would showcase natural resources and immerse visitors in their environment. The experience of walking to and entering a Mission 66 building was not meant to foster admiration for the building, but to evoke awe for the natural surroundings. While some of these considerations were present prior to the Modern era, the postwar era birthed a much stronger, renewed emphasis on these design concepts.

While most Mission 66 projects were completed between 1956 and 1966, some work continued after this milestone. The National Park Service branded this final phase of work as “Parkscape USA.” Projects in this phase took place from 1966 to 1972. The conclusion in 1972 coincided with the centennial of Yellowstone National Park.