EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE | MERIT

PROJECT NAME  Fassler Hall Dust Bowl

PROJECT LOCATION  Oklahoma City, OK

OWNER  Midtown Renaissance

FIRM  Fitzsimmons Architects

CONTRACTOR  Lingo Construction

PHOTOGRAPHER  Joseph Mills

Integrating two unique entertainment concepts into one building was challenging. This was resolved by creating separate entrances with unique identities for each. Also of paramount importance was the desire to contribute to a walkable and inviting streetscape. The goal of the facade is to engage the pedestrian, accomplished by providing large expanses of storefront to allow views of the activity inside. The other was by splitting the building in half and providing access to an inviting off-street courtyard.

Jury Notes: Good architecture has great potential to disappear from public sight when the line between new and old is blurred. This sort of quirky Brutalist building, is a form of structural expressionism that is often misunderstood. The architects created wonderful public space with thoughtful subtraction and addition. The contrast between the rough, muscular concrete engineering and its complimentary entrance is delightful.