frequently asked questions
Planning a visit or thinking about becoming a member? You’re in the right place. Below are answers to the questions we get most often about Open Houses at the Modulightor Building, memberships, accessibility, photography, and research/image-use requests. If you don’t see what you need, contact us by email at office@paulrudolph.institute and we’ll be happy to help.
“Is this a museum visit, a guided tour, or more like an open building walk-through?”
Answer: A Paul Rudolph Institute Open House is an open-house style visit to the Modulightor Building (a Paul Rudolph–designed space). You’ll be able to experience the building itself and view current exhibitions in our public areas. Docents are throughout the space to answer questions. If a particular date includes a guided component or special programming, we’ll note it on that event page.
“What do I get for the ticket price—and how long should I plan to stay?”
Answer: Your ticket reserves your entry during the posted Open House window (for example, 1:00–4:00pm). Most visitors spend 60–120 minutes, depending on how deeply they want to explore the exhibitions and the building.
“Do I need to book in advance? What happens if it sells out?”
Answer: We strongly recommend reserving in advance because capacity is limited. If a date sells out, please choose another upcoming Open House date. Members receive first notice of events and special pricing.
“I’m a member—why can’t I see the discount price on the public reservation link?”
Answer: Membership discount pricing is available only through the membership portal once you are logged in. To receive the member price, please make your reservation from the membership portal (not the public event links).
“Is the building accessible (elevator, stairs, seating)? I want to come, but I’m not sure I can do a lot of stairs.”
Answer: Yes. The Modulightor Building has an elevator that reaches every floor (including the roof). There are private bathrooms, including one with grab bars for accessibility. While some areas are tight, wheelchairs can access every floor.
“Can I bring a friend/child? Is this beginner-friendly or only for architects?”
Answer: All are welcome—students, design professionals, and members of the public. You do not need prior knowledge of Paul Rudolph or modern architecture to enjoy the visit. Because some of the items displayed in the apartment are delicate, children under 12 must be supervised at all times. Please contact us at office@paulrudolph.institute with any specific questions.
“Can I take photos or video? Can I post on social media?”
Answer: Personal photography for non-commercial use is welcome, but some artworks or archival materials may have restrictions. Please follow any posted guidelines during your visit. We do offer parts of the building for commercial photoshoots. Please contact us at office@paulrudolph.institute for more information.
“If I can’t attend in person, is there a way to experience PRIMA remotely?”
Answer: Yes. We share updates, news, and select content online, and we record some programs for video content. The best way to stay informed is to subscribe to our newsletter and follow our social channels.
“I’m a researcher/journalist/designer—how do I request access to archives or license an image?”
Answer: We receive research and image-use requests regularly. Please contact us with:
The project or topic you’re researching
The specific image(s) or material you’re requesting (if known)
Intended use (non-commercial vs commercial, publication/website details, timeline)
We’ll reply with next steps and any applicable permissions or licensing terms.
“Where does my ticket money go? Am I supporting preservation?”
Answer: Yes. PRIMA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Open House ticket sales and donations directly support our mission to preserve and share modern architecture through outreach, education, and research, including maintaining exhibitions and caring for architectural archives.