The Administrative
building of Southwestern University is located in the heart of its campus
in Georgetown, Texas. Constructed in 1898, this building clearly represents
Gothic Architecture according to Ruskin's principles. At first glance, it
implies "this look of mountain brotherhood between the cathedral and the
Alp." Where this building exemplifies refinement and dignity, the facade
reminds the viewer of the savageness and rare form found on a rocky mountainside.
Its rough, textured, uneven surfaces are due to the rude materials used
in its construction. "Perpetual variety of every feature" transcend the
overwhelming love of change. There is a great variety of height which is
evident in the roof line with its gables and different levels of points.
However, the windows stand out with the greatest amount of change because
they simply "do not say the same thing over and over again." Looking at
the right side of the building just beyond the line of trees on the first
floor are several different sized rectangular shaped windows with half moons
complementing their crests. Directly above these are similar rectangular
shaped windows that are complemented with smaller rectangular windows. However,
these sets of windows serve as contrasting neighbors to the slender, enlongated
oval windows in a triplet of three sizes ranging from smallest to largest,
left to right. Its amazing how the windows are so extraordinarily distinct,
yet can all be made using rectangles, circles, or combinations of both.
This building
suggests a love of nature which is forecasted by the beautiful trees and
lawn which surround it. In addition, at the highest point of the building
sits a weather vane made of iron. Although this building reaches for the
sky, it demonstrates a respect for nature as the instrument reminds everyone
who looks that nature is still a high priority for this building. Rigidity
is apparent with a "daringly projecting and independent structure." The
main tower comes to the tallest point far above the rest of the building.
It dominates the power and sets the tone for "an elastic tension and communication
of force" which is perceived from the roof line. The energy is all directed
upwards with each point housing an added fixture to signify its existence.
The "redundance" and "accumulation of ornament" provide a definite claim
to the principle of generosity. The windows are often surrounded by carvings
and added decor. Underneath each level of the roof are repeating patterns
of perfectly carved square blocks. These give a checkered and contrasting
appearance next to the uneven stone walls. Also, cones are carved out of
stone atop the columnar supports on the sides and corners of the building.The Littlefield Home | Administrative
Building - SWT
Wells Fargo Bank Building | Dobie
Mall