Thesis Abstract
Executive Summary
The Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center is a multiuse facility that functions as one of the most important cultural centers of the state of Texas. A Brutalist style building designed as research archives, the completed renovation added human scale to the structure. The renovated building now includes gallery/exhibit spaces for guests to tour as well as a theatre and other public spaces. Highlights of the over 42 million books, manuscripts, photographs, and artwork include the Gutenberg Bible (c. 1455), the first photograph (c. 1826), and paintings by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera.
User Note:
Note: While great efforts have been taken to provide accurate and complete information on the pages of CPEP,
please be aware that the information contained herewith is considered a work-in-progress for this thesis project.
Modifications and changes related to the original building designs and construction methodologies for this
senior thesis project are solely the interpretation of Michael Lombardi. Changes and discrepancies in no way
imply that the original design contained errors or was flawed. Differing assumptions, code references, requirements,
and methodologies have been incorporated into this thesis project; therefore, investigation results may
vary from the original design.