An analysis of research procedures used during the restoration of the dome of the Texas State Capitol, Austin, 1989 to 1995

Abstract

In 1995 the Texas State Capitol Preservation and Extension Project was completed. Six years earlier, the joint team of architects, 3D/International, Inc. and Ford, Powell & Carson, Inc. had faced the challenge of compiling a master plan and budget for the entire project within a few short months of being awarded the contract in order to meet the 1989 legislative deadline. Lack of time and money at this stage meant that preliminary surveys were greatly curtailed, and scaffolding could not be erected on the exterior of the building. One of the least accessible areas proved to be the dome. This thesis examines the archival and physical research procedures undertaken to determine the condition of the dome, how this information was used, and what discrepancies were then discovered once scaffolding made the dome accessible. The impact of these differences on restoration procedures and costs of the project are then examined. In conclusion, recommendations are proposed concerning practices which might benefit a future high-profile, large-scale preservation project, particularly in regard to documentation techniques.