In the wake of the International Style, which rose to prominence in the 1920s and 30s, some architects wanted to move away from minimalist glass and steel and return to the ornamentation of the past. Postmodernists such as Michael Graves , James Stirling, Robert Venturi, and Denise Scott Brown responded to the work of their predecessors with bold buildings that showcased color and references to classical design. Many of the structures were greeted with a fair amount of controversy, and the style and its impact are still debated today. Discover five of the most influential buildings of the postmodern movement and see how their eclectic and innovative designs pushed the boundaries of architecture in the 20th century.

Portland Building, Portland, Oregon

Designed by Michael Graves and completed in 1982, the Portland Building is an icon of postmodernism. The 15-story structure is embellished with stylized classical elements, including an oversize keystone and pilasters.

Vanna Venturi House, Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania

Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown influenced the design movement with their buildings and their published work, including Learning from Las Vegas: The Forgotten Symbolism of Architectural Form. One of the couple’s most celebrated designs was the Vanna Venturi House, which was built for Venturi’s mother and completed in 1964.

Piazza d’Italia, New Orleans

The downtown public plaza, which was designed in 1978 by Charles Moore, offers a colorful and eclectic take on classical architecture.

Neue Staatsgalerie, Stuttgart, Germany

In 1984 British architect James Stirling designed a postmodern addition to the historic Staatsgalerie. The exterior blends traditional stone with brightly colored accents for a structure that references the original building while presenting a new architectural vision.

AT&T Building, New York

While Philip Johnson may be best known for his International Style Glass House, his later works, many built in collaboration with architect John Burgee, pushed the boundaries of postmodernism. The AT&T Building, located on Madison Avenue, features a Chippendale-inspired pediment and pink granite exterior