The Rivergate, an architectural marvel and a symbol of New Orleans' mid-century modernism, once graced the city's skyline. Designed by Curtis and Davis Architects, this iconic convention center was celebrated for its striking design and innovative engineering. Unfortunately, the Rivergate was demolished in 1995 to make way for Harrah's Casino. In this blog post, we will take a trip down memory lane and explore the history and significance of this extraordinary building.
The Rivergate: A Marvel of Mid-Century Modernism
Constructed in 1968, the Rivergate was a prime example of mid-century modern architecture. It featured a unique, swooping roofline and an impressive, column-free interior space. The building's roof was supported by immense concrete arches that spanned over the convention floor, creating an uninterrupted, expansive space for events.
During its heyday, the Rivergate was a hub of activity, hosting numerous conventions, concerts, and other events. It was a symbol of New Orleans' growing stature as a major city, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of the time.
The Demise of an Icon
Despite its architectural significance and prominent role in the city's life, the Rivergate's fate was sealed when plans for a new casino in downtown New Orleans were announced in the early 1990s. Harrah's Casino was awarded the gaming license, and the Rivergate was earmarked for demolition to make way for the new development.
The decision to demolish the Rivergate sparked considerable controversy and debate among New Orleans residents and preservationists. Many argued that the building should be repurposed or incorporated into the new casino's design, citing its architectural and historical value. Nevertheless, the Rivergate was ultimately razed in 1995, making way for the construction of Harrah's Casino.
Remembering the Rivergate
Today, the Rivergate is a distant memory for many New Orleanians, but its legacy lives on through photographs, articles, and the stories of those who experienced the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece. The loss of the Rivergate serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our city's rich architectural heritage for future generations.
Source Articles and Images:
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"The Rivergate – New Orleans, Louisiana" by Rex A. Patton, The Architectural Record (1968)
- A detailed article on the Rivergate's design and construction, including images and floor plans. URL: https://archive.org/details/TheArchitecturalRecord1968USA/page/n1281
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"Demolition of the Rivergate Convention Center" by Mike Scott, The Times-Picayune (2015)
- A retrospective on the Rivergate's demolition, featuring images and interviews with those involved in the preservation efforts. URL: https://www.nola.com/300/article_7b0e1d4c-1e34-11e9-93a4-93e78592eaa4.html
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"New Orleans Rivergate" by Curtis and Davis Architects, Southeastern Architectural Archive (1968)
- A collection of original architectural drawings and photographs of the Rivergate. URL: https://seaa.tulane.edu/collections/curtis-and-davis/item/27-new-orleans-rivergate
The Rivergate's unique design and engineering stood as a testament to New Orleans' forward-thinking spirit and innovation. Although it is no longer part of the city's landscape, the Rivergate remains an important chapter in the architectural history of New Orleans. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing our city's built heritage, as it tells the story of who we are
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