The Water Works Project consists of the interior renovation and an exterior restoration of an existing water pump plant, still in service. Construction costs totaled $3 million for the 20,000 square foot facility. Careful planning and construction coordination were required to ensure that the building remained in operation during construction. The highlight of the project was the restoration of the original 1915, 20-ton flywheel, converting it into an interactive kinetic display.
Located in the Springfield area of Jacksonville, the design team worked closely with the Springfield Preservation and Revitalization Council (SPAR) and Jacksonville’s Historic Commission to stay true to the restoration of the 1915 façade, as well as meet preservation guidelines of the historic neighborhood.
A new Visitor’s Center was also constructed on the site. Designed as a replica of the 1920 building that previously stood on the site, the visitor center serves as the start and initial stop on the Waterworks Museum tour. The building houses a gift shop, offices, a small auditorium and display areas. The 6,000 sf building was constructed of wood molded bricks to match the original structure. Connecting the two buildings is a large plaza complete with interactive fountains, covered walkways, period landscaping and a picnic pavilion.