We asked seven leading architects who practice in and around Boston to choose their favorite buildings in the city. Their selections range from celebrated icons to secret city treasures. We also induced them to reveal their favorite dining spots.

Photo © Lucy Chen

Notable Architecture: We showcase architectural landmarks in Boston. Check out RECORD’s top ten list, which includes buildings by Le Corbusier, Eero Saarinen, Alvar Aalto, among other famed architects. In addition, the AIA Guide to Boston authors have selected their favorite structures completed since 2000, from Simmons Hall by Stephen Holl/Perry Dean Rogers Partners to the MBTA Traction Power Substation by Ellenzweig Associates.

Photo courtesy MIT/Donna Coveney

Boston’s young and mid-career practices find common ground in their training and research-based design. We profile 11 firms, including Office dA, designLAB, Brian Healy Architects, The Galante Architecture Studio, Utile, and Studio Luz.

Photo © John Horner

Where to Go: Looking for a cozy place to nosh on a lobster roll? Or the ideal spot to view modern art? We’ve combed the city and selected the best museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, bars, and other venues and attractions. Also, check out our suggested walking tour, which takes you by important landmarks designed by architects such as Charles Bulfinch, Frederick Law Olmsted, Stanley Saitowitz, among others.

Photo courtesy Greater Boston CVB/ FayFoto

Boston is in the midst of a major urban transformation. We speak with two city planners presiding over this transformation: John Palmieri and Kairos Shen, heads of the Boston Redevelopment Authority, the agency responsible for planning and economic development in one of America’s oldest cities. We also get the rundown on the AIA convention from its senior director, Christopher Gribbs. While sustainability was the theme of the 2007 convention, the AIA expects this year’s event will be its greenest yet.

Image courtesy Massachusetts Turnpike Authority

Top Stories: Here’s a roundup of ten RECORD stories related to Boston projects and architects. Read about work by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Cambridge Seven Associates, and Stern McCafferty. Also, we critique buildings by Polshek Partnership and Elkus/Manfredi, and profile Eric Höweler and J. Meejin Yoon, featured in our 2007 Design Vanguard issue.

Photo © Jeff Goldberg/ESTO

The AIA will recognize the recipients of the 2008 Honor Awards during its national convention in Boston. View winning projects in three categories: Architecture, Interiors, and Regional/Urban Design. Also, read about the winners of the 25 Year Award (Richard Meier's The Atheneum), the Firm of the Year (KieranTimberlake Associates), and the Gold Medal (Renzo Piano).

Photo © Jeff Weiner

Learn More: To learn about the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and to download a membership application, visit our “About the AIA” section. Plus, check out the AIA 2008 National Convention Web site to register for the event and view a schedule. Also, visit the Web site for the Boston Society of Architects, one of the largest AIA chapters in the country.