|
|
Prairie Architects, Inc. |
Search |
Karl King Bandshell Fort Dodge, Iowa |
Existing Conditions While the Bandshell is in reasonably solid condition, a number of areas have suffered moisture related damages. The Modernist tendency to favor the clean look of walls and parapets without cap flashing has lead to severe deterioration of the rear parapet construction: water sitting on top of these parapets has generated a series of spawl lines that necessitate partial reconstruction of these elements. There has also been significant uptake of moisture from the exposed earth floor and raw concrete slab floors at the lower level of the Bandshell interior. This has caused elevated airborne vapor levels and fed a massive condensation problem when vapors came into contact with relatively cool concrete surfaces. Mildew and other fungal infestations discourage comfortable use of the facilities, in itself a significant and insidious threat to the long term survival of the structure. Original detailing did not provide for thermal movement within the structure, leading to the proliferation of natural cracks - needed for continued movement of the structure but presenting a prominent path for the entry of moisture into the building. The original interior wood stud partition walls has typically rotted at the floor and other lines of contact with walls and ceiling. Finishes were originally painted plaster on metal lath with wood trim base and door surrounds, also rotted. The original metal window frames and roofing membrane have deteriorated beyond repair. |
Bandshell Restoration |
Original construction provided for a reflecting pool with submerged lighting and fountains flanking the stage. Multiple scuppers, mounted on the face of the wall over the pool, originally splashed water into the pool below. Subsequently, a 12-inch high concrete cap and wrought iron fence was added atop the pool retaining wall, presumably to address fears of a mishap. The cap effectively halves the apparent width of the pool when viewed from the performance seating. The fencing, which appears to have been highly unsatisfactory, was later removed and the pool was filled with dirt. The concrete cap remains. |
Prairie Architects, Inc. -- 103 South Third Street -- Fairfield, Iowa 52556 |