ARC 560R/ARC 696
Advanced Design Studio: Historic Preservation
Instructor: Prof. Jeffrey M. Chusid
Time: MWF 1-6 pm
Location: GOL 2.214
Course Description
The principle topic for the studio will be a proposed new history trail¹ extending from the Capitol, via Congress, 6th, Neches, 4th, Red River and Rainey Street to Town Lake (with a return along Town Lake to Guadalupe, Republic Square, West 4th and Congress). The focus will be on Brush Square, one of the original four squares of Austin, and the Waterloo Compound. Brush Square is bordered on two sides by new construction: a Hilton Hotel and the expanded Convention Center. It houses two historic structures: the O¹Henry House and Fire Station No. 1. It is the terminus of the Hill Country Flyer Steam Train, and a potential light rail stop. Indifferently maintained and previously a vestigial part of downtown, it will soon be the center for tourist and convention activity in Austin. One block south, the Waterloo Compound of historic structures now houses the premier¹ restaurant in the city (Emilia¹s), and will soon be the home of the Heritage Society of Austin. The compound also forms the longest continuous accessible waterfront to Waller Creek in downtown.
The purpose of the studio is to develop a series of planning and design strategies for reinforcing the existing character of the area, while accommodating significant change. By envisioning Brush Square and the Waterloo Compound as part of a continuous, designated and interpreted 'trail," it is hoped that a convincing argument can be made to the City and other interested parties that the historic structures along the path are critical for tourism and identity.
The product of the Studio will be a publication distributed to City officials, the Downtown Austin Alliance, and others. The publication will include zoning strategies, trail¹ programming and interpretive graphics, and individual design projects, with an emphasis on urban design features for Brush Square and Waller Creek.
Students will work individually and in groups, depending on the nature of the particular design subject. The intention is to present a cohesive project at the completion of the studio. Representatives from numerous city and private groups and agencies will serve as resources for the studio, and participate in reviews and discussions during the course of the class.