The city hall sparked a real controversy in the trade press world-wide only shortly after the ribbon was cut. Like Rudolph’s Boston Government Service Center  the building is part of the Boston masterplan developed by I. M. Pei. The city hall’s shape popularized a phenotype based clearly on La Tourette, that was to be encountered the world over in similar shapes (#LaTouretteType): It can be read as a temple missing its gable.

Demolition plans made in 2006 came to nothing. At present a redesign for the plaza is being debated. The building is in need of renovation. No decision on a heritage listing has yet been forthcoming. The Getty Foundation is supporting a conservation management plan in 2017.