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Mid-Century Modern Amongst Us
Mid-century modern design focuses on the construction boom in the United States after World War II. This architectural boom was a by-product of post-war optimism and reflected a nation's dedication to building a new future. This new architecture used modern materials such as reinforced concrete, glass and steel and was defined by clean lines, simple shapes and unornamented facades.
Walking amongst the concrete giants in downtown Dallas made me think about the history these buildings carry and how they compliment the new construction of this era. Three of my favorite iconic buildings are ones that continue to contribute to the character of our city.
Mercantile Place located at 1800 Main St, Dallas, TX 75201
The Merc is the residence to downtown Dallasites. Completed in 1942, this 523-foot Mercantile Tower with its stately clock and soaring spire was the home of Mercantile National Bank, founded and owned by Dallas' powerhouse banker and civic leader, Robert L. Thornton. This landmark building now reclaims its place of honor amidst Dallas' vibrant skyline.
Republic Center Tower I is a mixed-use complex at 300 N. Ervay Street and 325 N. St. Paul Street in the City Center District.
The complex is a prime example of mid century modern skyscraper design. Constructed as a 36-story skyscraper for the headquarters of Republic National Bank, which had previously been located at the Davis Building. Seeking to build higher than their rival's Mercantile National Bank Building, the Republic National Bank Building became the tallest building in Dallas and west of the Mississippi River at its completion in 1954. In 1997 new owners acquired the block and the complex was renovated.
Republic Center Tower I was renovated in 2005 to house 229 residential units. The first units opened in January 2007 and the building's name changed to Gables Republic Tower. Republic Center Towers II & III remain active office buildings, while the old banking lobbies and ground floors are leased as office and retail space.
Dallas Statler Hilton is an iconic building of mid-twentieth century design located at 1914 Commerce Street in downtown Dallas, Texas. It is located on the edge of the Farmers Market District and adjacent to Main Street Garden Park. Currently the iconic piece of the Sinatra-era remains abandoned but never forgotten. "It remains unclear how the Statler will be redeveloped — as a hotel or as residential or as a bit of both."
This article was written by ANDREA GONZABA. ANDREA is a writer for CLAY STAPP+CO. Follow her on twitter and Facebook
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