Architectural (A)

The Architectural plans include detailed overhead views of each of the levels, plus an interior half-elevation, looking east. The basic design of the structure is futuristic, largely constrained by the domed shape. The Houston Sports Association's 1965 souvenir program, Inside the Astrodome, describes it as a "curving, blister bubble" (p. 6).

The 2013 National Register of Historic Places Registration Form developed by Ted Powell with assistance from Texas Historical Commission staff further describes the structure:

"The exterior circular perimeter of the Astrodome is wrapped in decorative concrete lattice or grillwork. (The east side latticework was added during 1988-89 alterations). The symmetrical grillwork is interrupted by twelve overflow scuppers (3 x 18 inches), evenly spaced around the upper level ofthe latticework. Public entrances into the stadium are evenly spaced along the perimeter at the north, west, and south sides. Three huge concrete ramps at 8% grade and 100 feet wide allow entry into the stadium at these locations. Two 40-foot wide ramps are located on the east side, also at 8% grade. The southwest service area features a dock level entry. The electrical sub-station and cooling towers are also located on the east side ofthe stadium. Detached small concrete ticket booths are located on the ramps in front of each of the west, north and south elevations."