Discover the Remarkable Legacy of Mary Colter at Special Architecture Panel in Old Towne Orange

The Hilbert Museum of California Art is inviting the Orange community to step into the world of one of America’s most influential architects and designers during a special AAA Westways Magazine panel discussion, “Visionary Architect on the Southwest: On The Mary Colter Trail.” The event will explore the life, career, and enduring legacy of Mary Colter, whose creative vision helped define the look and feel of many of the Southwest’s most beloved landmarks.

Known for blending architecture with local history, culture, and natural landscapes, Colter designed a number of iconic structures for the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, transforming how travelers experienced destinations across the American West. Her work at Grand Canyon National Park—including Hopi House, Hermit’s Rest, the Desert View Watchtower, and the Bright Angel complex—remains celebrated today for its thoughtful integration with the surrounding environment and its respect for Indigenous artistic traditions.

During the discussion, expert panelists will examine Colter’s groundbreaking approach to design, her influence on tourism and hospitality, and the challenges she overcame as a pioneering woman in a male-dominated profession. Attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the stories behind some of the Southwest’s most recognizable landmarks while learning how Colter’s work continues to inspire architects, historians, and preservationists more than a century later.

Held in the heart of Old Towne Orange, the event offers a unique opportunity to connect with history, architecture, and cultural preservation through the lens of a visionary designer whose impact can still be seen throughout the American West today.