Reconstruction of an Historical Structure Using Restoration Theory | Tucumcari Bathhouse

Tucumcari located in Eastern New Mexico, has had a rich agricultural history. The climate of this area made it perfect for recreational use, especially a bathhouse. The bathhouse was part of the 1930s citizen conservation corps, the structure was completed in 1940 with a capacity of up to 500 occupants. The “Tucumcari metropolitan park” is listed in the state national register of historical structures and places. Due to its large use of water, the structure and its services were forced to close. Thereafter it had sustained water damage to the roof and walls, termites, and a complete deterioration after a fire in 2013. Tucumcari needs a restoration that would bring back tourism and profit to the area. To do this an appropriate form of reconstruction must be used to preserve the structure’s history. Restoration theories talk about the structure as being still standing, but since the Tucumcari bathhouse is no longer standing the models of restoration theory can be used to appropriately reconstruct the bathhouse. Research methods include speaking with Tucumcari leaders, revising state records, conducting a site analysis, and finding the most fitting restoration method from theories of restoration. This includes presenting a 1/16th inch model of the reconstructed structure and digitized drawings.