The University of Texas - Benedict/Mezes/Batts Hall Renovation & Addition - Phase II

Austin, TX

Mason Contractor: Brazos Masonry, Inc.
Architect: 3D International

Project Description

Deep in the heart of The University of Texas' Austin campus lays a series of conjoined liberal arts buildings and lecture halls whose architectural significance and structural lives have outlived their utilitarian existence. Completely stripped of all interior elements, this project was re-fitted with new CMU stair and elevator shafts, clay tile, and revised placement of select entries. It employed more than 1500 new pieces of dimensioned limestone and granite in addition to the total exterior rehabilitation. Many of these were in the new courtyard plazas which adorn both of the exposed elevations. Pavers were tastefully scattered at most pedestrian areas.

Two new floors were added which had to fully complement this campus icon grouping. One of these, a mechanical penthouse level, incorporated eighteen custom 36" x 72" terra cotta vents. Apparently, the concrete framing crew in this area failed to understand the imperative requirements of the rough openings for the $250,000 custom units. Several of the units had to be field-altered with the precision and nerve of a diamond cutter.

Accessibility to these work areas was formidable. All faculty, students, and alumni, as well as almost every Austinite, place a premium value on each and every one of the hundreds of beautiful liveoak shade trees which provide the campus respite from the Texas sun. All interested parties were well satisfied with the final delivery of the project.