The University Auditorium is the centerpiece of the UF Campus. The landmark designed by William Edwards has impressive Gothic windows, a 99 rank organ with approximately 6,500 pipes, and a vaulted timber ceiling with gargoyle busts at the ends of hammerbeam trusses representing academic, professional, and athletic pursuits. Behind the historic finishes are steel roof trusses and reinforced concrete structure. For many years assemblies and commencement ceremonies were held here, and audiences still enjoy musical and dramatic performances. An administrative tower had been planned for the University Auditorium facing the Plaza of the Americas, but only the Auditorium wing was completed with a temporary wood stair facing the Plaza. The project was set aside when the Florida Land Boom crashed in 1927 and was finally abandoned in 1951 when Tigert Hall was built to respond to the dramatic growth of the Post-World War II student body. The Century Tower was erected in 1953. In 1977 the Auditorium was restored and a new North wing provided a compatible architectural completion of the building. The wing designed by Architect Jim McGinley won the Governor’s Award in 1977.
3-1/2 stories
Retangular with addition at North
Gable
Ends of original building on long side
4 over 4 light double hung
6 over 6 light double hung
Large Gothic window with tracery
Brick is Common Bond
6th course Flemish Bond
Light red flat tile with "bump" ridge tiles
Copper valley flashing and downspouts
Cast stone entrnce surround
Cast stone water table, copings, decorative sculpture and tracery
Plaster faux-wood gargoyles capping interior hammer beam trusses
Hall interior with Gothic Revival hammer deams and ornament
Open green space on either side
Architect: William Augustus Edwards; 1977 James McGinley
