The purpose of this study is to show that an awareness of modern architecture is developing in Dallas, Texas. This will be shown by an analysis of several recently constructed residential, civic, and commercial buildings. The contributions of American and European architects who have influenced our contemporary architecture are reviewed to in order to develop a background for this study. This will be shown by an analysis of several recently constructed residential, civic and commercial buildings.

Texas has only recently taken an active interest in developing the fine arts as an important aspect of her culture. With the discovery of vast oil fields in Texas, an era of prosperity ensued that brought about rapid growth in population and wealth.

This study examines the development of Edward Larrabee Barnes's design concepts for the Dallas Museum of Art, from preliminary concepts and program statements by Director Harry Parker and Dallas Museum trustees, through initial planning and architect selection, to site selection, the Program and Space Study, Barnes's early conceptual plans, and his Dallas Arts District master planning. Influences on Barnes's work and his career development leading to the Dallas commission, his most ambitious museum to date, are examined. Discussion and documentation of design development is based on schematic studies, presentation drawings, models, and trustees' minutes. Design changes during construction and all phases of expansion planning are also discussed. The conclusion summarizes historical influences on the design and Barnes's fulfillment of program concepts.