Historic Resource Survey Form : Esslinger Hall
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Date
2006
Authors
Johnson, Susan
Flathman, Jennifer
Pochert, Erin
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The Physical Education Building is a good example of the association between campus planner and architect Ellis Lawrence
with the Public Works Administration (PWA). The PWA provided the funding for the construction of the Physical Education Building
and other projects built on the campus during the 1930s. The restrained quality of the building conforms to the PWA guidelines for
economy as well as a growing trend in architecture toward simple forms. Esslinger Hall is a low, horizontal, poured concrete structure
that is simply but elegantly detailed. The building’s decoration is furnished by the groupings of windows, geometric patterns in the
doors and transom panels above the doors, and patterns in the concrete. Detailing of the concrete provides the building’s primary
ornament. The detailing emphasizes the horizontality of the site with contrasting vertical elements highlighting the entries. The
combinations of octagons and rectangles in the doors along with the horizontal band of rectangular, grouped hinged sash windows are
in keeping with the emphasis on simple geometries in the Moderne style. Although the Physical Education Building is the only
Lawrence project on the Oregon campus to employ the Moderne style, the massing and refined detailing is characteristic of Lawrence’s
work throughout the campus.
The original building contained two basketball courts, eight handball/squash courts, locker rooms, and office space. During
construction, the building was attached to the existing McArthur Court by a set of doors at the southwest corner. Modifications include
the addition of a second story administrative wing in 1954, construction of the swimming pool in 1958, and the remodeling of the
second story to repair damage resulting from the 1971 fire. In 1975, the University renamed the building in honor of the contributions of
Arthur A. Esslinger during his service as Dean of the College of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from 1953 until 1971. The
continuing growth of athletics and physical education at the University prompted the construction of the Student Recreation and Fitness
Center in 1999 (designed by TBG Architects of Eugene and Cannon-Parkin of Los Angeles) which is attached to Esslinger Hall at the
northeast corner.
Description
5 pages
Keywords
cultural resources survey, history, architecture