International Computing Corporation

As preservation awareness is deepening in society, the typical adaptive reuse project is not necessarily that of a building with historical significance, rather one of the ordinary buildings in our neighborhood. We are no longer recycling buildings because they have had an enormous impact on our past lives but rather because it is ecologically sensitive and because availability of space is diminishing. The challenges presented here begin with the collaboration of old and new. Creating a space which can simultaneously speak of the future without ignoring the past is desired to gain a holistic approach to architecture. Too many times a building has been commissioned for adaptive reuse and the designer conceals the historic elements with modem materials. I believe there can be a balance of both historical and modern incorporated into a singular design. Safeguarding the historic fabric of the building while simultaneously creating a modem environment has become the topic of my thesis.Through my thesis, I will adaptively reuse the Oilwell Supply Building in Dallas, Texas' West End Historic District. This building offers 71,120 square feet and introduces a much needed hotel into the area. The project also will include an outdoor plaza adjacent to the hotel. The objectives with the design of this hotel include creating a welcoming environment for tourists to relax and to enjoy themselves. Sculpting new patterns and purposes into the stately envelope will be achieved with the use of materials and detailing. I believe that incorporating new elements and materials will create a pleasurable and interesting experience while successfully recycling the historic structure. The West End offers a variety of entertainment options and constitutes a superior location for a hotel. With the combination of an outdoor plaza, parking garage, and various entertainment options, the location offers many opportunities for the tourist and business clientele.By researching how other architects have successfully incorporated the new within the old, I have gained insight on how the two eras can combine to create significant and sensitive architecture. These precedents have provided a basis for my design and a deeper knowledge about the interrelation of time and architecture.College of Architecture and PlanningICC office/computing complex.Thesis (B. Arch.