Arlington, Texas, is home to a rich architectural history that spans various styles and periods.
The city boasts an impressive array of buildings that reflect its growth and development over the years.
From historical landmarks to modern marvels, each structure tells a unique story.
What are the architectural gems that define Arlington’s skyline today? This article explores ten of the best architectural buildings in Arlington, Texas, shedding light on their design, significance, and the role they play in the community.
1. AT&T Stadium
AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, is a cutting-edge sports complex known for its impressive architectural design.
It features 80,000 seats and spans 3 million square feet.
The stadium is remarkable for its retractable roof and massive video board.
Home to the Dallas Cowboys, the stadium cost approximately $1.15 billion to construct.
It serves as a venue for NFL games, college bowl games, and concerts, offering a versatile entertainment experience for visitors.
The facility boasts the world’s longest arched box trusses and a large video board suspended above the field.
2. Texas Health Resources Tower
The Texas Health Resources Tower, also known as the Jane and John Justin Tower, is a landmark in Arlington.
Completed in April 2022, this nine-story building added 400,000 square feet to the hospital.
The tower includes 144 beds and 15 surgery suites, enhancing medical services in the area.
Its modern design serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, making it a notable architectural addition to the city.
More information can be found here.
3. Ballpark in Arlington
The Ballpark in Arlington, now known as Choctaw Stadium, opened in 1994.
Designed by David M. Schwarz Architectural Services with HKS, it features a blend of historic baseball stadium designs like Fenway Park and Ebbets Field.
This 48,114-seat stadium was the home of the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team until 2019.
It remains a key part of the community, reflecting Arlington’s love of baseball.
4. Globe Life Park
Globe Life Park, now known as Choctaw Stadium, opened in April 1994.
Designed by David M. Schwarz, this 48,114-seat stadium is in Arlington, Texas.
The design features nods to historic ballparks such as Fenway Park and Ebbets Field.
It served as the home of the Texas Rangers baseball team until 2019.
The current Globe Life Field is located nearby, continuing to host the Rangers games in a modern setting.
5. Cowboys Stadium
Cowboys Stadium, also known as AT&T Stadium, is located in Arlington, Texas.
Designed by HKS, Inc., the stadium is home to the Dallas Cowboys.
The venue boasts cutting-edge technology, including one of the largest HD video screens in the world.
With a seating capacity of 80,000, it is one of the largest NFL stadiums.
The retractable roof, engineered by Walter P Moore, adds versatility for various events.
Cowboys Stadium is a key landmark and a popular destination for sports fans. Learn more about its design here.
6. Levitt Pavilion
Levitt Pavilion, located in Founders Plaza, is a standout spot for live music in Arlington, Texas.
It opened in 2008 and offers more than 50 free outdoor concerts yearly, making live music accessible to everyone.
This venue has earned recognition as a Great Public Space of Texas.
It hosts lectures, dinners, and receptions, enhancing the community’s cultural experiences.
Situated downtown, Levitt Pavilion is considered a key part of the city’s revitalization efforts.
Its convenient location across from City Hall adds to its appeal for both locals and visitors.
7. Six Flags Over Texas
Six Flags Over Texas is a classic theme park in Arlington founded over 60 years ago.
It stands out for its unique blend of history and entertainment.
The park features thrilling rides and world-class shows.
Visitors can also enjoy unique shopping and dining experiences within the premises.
The architecture of Six Flags Over Texas includes various themed areas, such as the “Republic of Texas” section. This adds a distinctive touch to the park.
Learn more about the park’s attractions on this Six Flags Overview.
8. Arlington Highlands
Arlington Highlands stands out as a vibrant commercial hub.
It features a mix of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
The architecture combines modern design with welcoming public spaces.
Visitors can enjoy well-landscaped areas and pedestrian-friendly walkways.
To explore more about this location, visit Arlington Highlands.
9. The Parks Mall
The Parks Mall at Arlington opened in 1988.
It offers around 1.5 million square feet of retail space.
Located at 3811 South Cooper Street, it’s easily accessible from Interstate 20.
Visitors can find over 161 stores and various dining options.
It serves as a major shopping hub between Fort Worth and Dallas, drawing crowds from across the region.
Recent renovations aim to keep the mall modern and appealing.
Plans include a new Dick’s House of Sport. This continuous evolution makes it a central part of Arlington’s retail landscape.
10. Arlington Music Hall
Arlington Music Hall, built in 1949, is located in the heart of downtown Arlington.
This historic venue was originally a movie theater but was transformed into a concert hall in 2012.
It features state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting, creating an intimate ambiance for audiences.
Notable artists like Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn have performed here.
The Hall is celebrated for its timeless design and diverse musical offerings, making it a cultural landmark in Arlington. For more details, visit Arlington Music Hall.
Historical Significance
Arlington, Texas, holds a rich architectural heritage that reflects its early development and lasting cultural impact.
Early Development
During its early years, Arlington saw the construction of notable buildings that set the foundation for its architectural landscape.
Structures like the Fielder House represent early 20th-century residential design.
Built in 1914, this home showcases early architectural elegance and functioned as a community hub.
Another significant site is the Former Site of Eastern Star Home, completed in 1924.
This Georgian Revival facility, built for the Eastern Star Organization, exemplifies early institutional architecture.
Arlington’s Knapp Heritage Park houses buildings from the mid-1800s, offering a glimpse into the early settler lifestyle.
These sites collectively showcase Arlington’s growth trajectory and historical context.
Cultural Impact
The cultural impact of Arlington’s historic buildings is profound.
The Fielder House not only represents architectural progress but also highlights the area’s social evolution.
Its preservation allows residents and visitors to connect with Arlington’s past.
Downtown Arlington features landmarks with Texas Historical Markers and National Register of Historic Places designations.
These sites contribute to the community’s identity and heritage conservation.
Arlington’s diverse architectural heritage reflects its unique cultural tapestry.
The blend of early residential homes and institutional structures narrates the evolving social and cultural fabric of the city.
These buildings are vital for understanding Arlington’s place in Texas history.
Architectural Styles
In Arlington, Texas, architectural styles include both modern and traditional designs. Each style offers unique features that make the buildings stand out.
Modern Designs
Modern architecture in Arlington features sleek and innovative elements.
Buildings like Ellyn Amador’s works showcase clean lines, minimalistic forms, and open floor plans.
These designs often use materials such as glass, steel, and concrete, creating a futuristic and airy feel.
Natural light plays a crucial role in these structures, with large windows and open spaces being common.
Flat roofs, asymmetrical shapes, and the integration of environmentally friendly technologies are popular in contemporary designs.
These buildings often blend indoor and outdoor spaces, creating seamless transitions that connect the interior with the landscape.
Traditional Elements
Traditional architecture in Arlington often reflects historical influences and classic design elements.
Examples include structures from the early 20th century, such as the Eastern Star Home.
This style features elements like Georgian Revival, Colonial, and Victorian designs.
Common features include ornate detailing, gabled roofs, and symmetrical facades.
Buildings often use brick or wood materials and may include decorative trims and moldings.
Porches and columns are also frequent, providing a welcoming appearance.
Traditional designs tend to emphasize craftsmanship and detailed finishing, creating a timeless and elegant look that retains its charm through the years.
Notable Architects
Arlington, Texas, is home to a variety of talented architects who have left a significant mark on the city. Their contributions range from historical buildings to innovative modern designs.
Local Talent
Arlington boasts a wealth of local architectural talent.
Firms like RashmiC Architects and Lambdin Architects are well-regarded for their diverse projects.
From residential homes to commercial buildings, these architects are committed to quality and aesthetic appeal.
Icon Architects and Rose Design are also notable for their modern approaches.
They focus on blending functionality with striking designs.
Many of these firms offer personalized services, ensuring that every project meets the client’s specific needs.
Local architects contribute to the city’s unique architectural landscape by preserving historical styles while incorporating new trends.
Influential Figures
Some architects have not only shaped Arlington’s skyline but have also influenced the broader architectural community.
James Knapp, for example, has been a pivotal figure. His work spans various prominent buildings and developments in the area.
His contributions are especially remembered through places like Knapp Heritage Park.
Architects like Cortland Morgan and firms such as Lbl Architects have also left lasting impressions.
Their projects demonstrate ingenuity and forward-thinking designs.
These influential figures have mentored younger architects and have been involved in many landmark projects, thereby shaping the future of architecture in Arlington.
Their innovative work often sets new standards in the architectural field.