Battle Hall

Battle Hall is the most architecturally significant historic structure on the University of Texas at Austin’s campus. Designed by Beaux-Arts architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1911, the building plays a central role in shaping the Spanish-Mediterranean Revival architectural identity of the campus and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. Originally constructed as the University’s main library, it is now home to the School of Architecture’s Library and the Center for American Architecture and Design.

The project combines a multitude of historic preservation efforts and essential maintenance work. Maintenance work included roof replacement, replacement of air handlers, electric service upgrades, and hot water system improvements, ensuring the building’s longevity and efficacy. Also, accessibility upgrades are incorporated to make Battle Hall more inclusive. Historic preservation work includes the meticulous restoration of the building’s soffits, which now reflect the original color palette – a key element of the architect’s design intent and something that had been hidden for decades underneath a muted paint scheme. Also, the exterior windows and doors were restored, which were in danger of suffering irreparable damage due to rot and weathering but are now ready for decades of future service. Finally, the building’s exterior ironwork was restored, and reinstalled with new anchors and flashing.