Austin State Hospital Administration Building of 1857-1904

Central Austin, Texas

As one of the three oldest, most important early Texas facilities, the Administration Building of 1857-1904 represents a valuable historic asset. The Italianate-style building was fist constructed in 1857, primarily of limestone. An innovative, early hospital-planning model called the Dr. Thomas Story Kirkbride Plan was utilized for this building. The Kirkbride Plan, initially created in Philadelphia by local architect Samuel Sloan, provided the framework for several subsequent wing additions in ensuing decades, often designed by prominent Austin architects. Over the years, many large wings were constructed to the west, in various high styles. These wings have since been demolished.  Today, the extant building represents one of the few remaining Kirkbride-influenced hospitals in the nation.
In 1987, our firm was commissioned to create a long needed preservation master plan for this outstanding landmark. The award-winning plan has provided a long-term phased plan that acts as a restoration road map for the State of Texas. Williams went on to provide two major phases of exterior restoration, including the two roof domes, a complicated metal roof restoration, and exterior façade restoration that included the conservation of 325 delicate wood windows.
During the early planning services, the State also commissioned one of the first historic site asset management plans with the firm. This plan encompassed over 100 acres and 80 structures and resulted in some of Austin’s most creative, new mixed-use, inner city complexes. (This project was completed by TWC Architects prior to joining Lord, Aeck & Sargent.)