The iconic Paul Rudolph Brutalist inspired Government Center was completely renovated in early 2018
65000000
Construction Value
250000
Square Feet
After a devastating setback
by Hurricane Irene in 2011
Construction finally came underway for the heavily water damaged Orange County Government Center. The center, designed by the modernist and brutalist architect Paul Rudolph, had been closed for 3 years before final plans were drafted in 2014, which initiated the restoration of the distinctive government building.
Innovation &
Contribution
The main innovative aspect of the project was the process of recreating Paul Rudolph’s iconic structure while remaining compliant within modern day standards and codes.
Modern techniques were utilized to cover the skeleton of the building while maintaining the original design, both on the outside of the structure and within. Before the Split Face Block Veneer was placed on the façade of the building, the Moisture Barrier Membrane was sprayed on the exterior concrete structure to suppress future water damage. The veneer was then added over the membrane, adding on flashing and weeps to aid in avoiding any future water damage altogether.
Holt utilized Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) around the original supports, in order to adhere to the building’s original style, which negated the need for additional columns. This innovative thinking created an aesthetic style that maintained the history of the building while being compliant with standards and codes. The precautions put into place will also minimize future water damage in which the original structure was marred with.
The project’s first initiative was to maintain the structure’s original design, to preserve the building’s historic and innovative elements. The second was to construct a fully functional courthouse with added properties, all while supporting modern day compliances and standards while staying within budget and on schedule.
Modern lighting, electrical, security and ADA Compliance was strategically installed to meet the building’s aesthetic quality of design. While this project may fall under the category of reconstructive and ground up work; historians would likely call this a restoration and facsimile of the original building.