I think one of the founders of brutalism architecture was quoted as saying the point of art is to be noticed. The building is meant to be transparent and Democratic in a way—the mayors office being clearly visible from the outside, for example. Personally I think it looks fine at night because the lighting and shadows help soften the appearance somewhat. That said, saying that art is meant to be noticed feels similar to a toddler acting out for attention—they may be noticed, but not necessarily for the best of reasons. I think the intention of the feeling they want to evoke in the view is just as important. The egalitarian/utilitarian/transparency that the architects championed is generally not the thing that comes to mind at first glance. Reading more about the buildings history has caused me to appreciate it more. That said, a city hall is a symbol just as much as it is a building. Reactions to Boston’s city hall generally run the lines of revulsion to disgust. It doesn’t evoke any sense of civic pride, and outside of certain niche circles, I truly don’t think many would miss it if it were torn down.