Dallas’ one-of-a-kind historic park pavilion in Hamilton Park required extensive structural remediation and restoration to its original state. The pavilion, constructed in 1965, was the exception to the city’s 1960’s-era standardized concrete “T” beam pavilion design. Original architect Jack Corgan & Associates of Dallas utilized the same durable concrete material of the prototypical pavilion, but crafted the material into an elegant cantilever roof structure, using the reinforced thin shell concrete structure technology that had gained popularity in the 1960’s. This was the last and only remaining Dallas park pavilion of this style.
The modern structure required both a complete restoration of the exterior and rehabilitation of the interior. Lacking original construction drawings, extensive site assessment and investigation were required. An engineered shoring system supported the leaning concrete roof structure as a new concrete foundation and slab tied into the tapered columns. Restoration treatment of the main brick masonry enclosure required cleaning, repointing and application of transparent graffiti-resistant coating. Character-defining details, such as original men’s and women’s cast stone restroom signage, were preserved, cleaned and accentuated. The existing decorative masonry block screen wall required structural repairs. All concrete surfaces, including the columns, roofs, and soffits, were repaired, cleaned and re-plastered. The integral roof drainage system, which ran through the columns, was repaired and reconnected to the underground stormwater drainage system. The restrooms, which had previously been shuttered and closed due to vandalism, were emptied of all plumbing fixtures, with new lockable metal doors enabling them to be used for park equipment storage.
Under the direction of Dallas Park & Rec, this park pavilion and its surroundings will continue to serve as a landmark along White Rock Trail and reflect the community’s support and spirit.
