Nestled in the heart of Copley Square, the Boston Public Library is one of our favorite venues in the city. Bursting with history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking rooms, the library has long been a favorite venue for corporate and private events. From fairy tale-esque weddings in the courtyard, to cocktails in the Guastavino Room, its versatility and many memorable rooms make the Boston Public Library the choice venue for a Boston-centric event.

The Catered Affair at the Boston Public Library is excited to highlight the library in all its beauty with a week dedicated to its many rooms and spaces. Join us as we journey through the library and devour all that it has in store.

On first entering the seemingly unassuming doorway just steps from the courtyard, guests are sure to fall in love with the breathtaking space of the Guastavino Room. Looking out onto Copley Square and the Old South Church, Guastavino is the perfect space to enjoy all the splendors of a private event just steps from the hub of the city.

The Guastavino Room is named for its vaulted ceilings, a style designed by Rafael Guastavino, who worked with McKim in the building and structure of the Boston Public Library’s building. The ceiling is the first of its kind by this Spanish architect that left open the exposed tiling as a design aesthetic—the interlocking Guastavino terracotta tiles add a majesty to the room that is carried throughout the McKim Building’s design.

One of our favorite things about the Guastavino room is its versatility. One evening it is easily transformed into a reception hall with a mixture of round and long tables for a seated dinner and magnificent dance floor while the next it can be styled for a corporate cocktail reception with standing tables and a central bar—perfect for networking and passed appetizers. The Guastavino Room hosts up 240 standing guests or 180 seated or 150 seated with a dance floor. It’s the perfect room for your next company holiday party, wedding, or reception.

Our tip? The Guastavino room is completely transformable so a glam, silver, sleek look is amazing. Try choosing florals arrangement with height to draw attention to the ornate ceilings—the true calling card of the room!