Knoxville's Sunsphere - Knoxville, TN
Renovated in 2007
Scope
Since the World's Fair in 1982 the Sunsphere has undergone several different uses. Kinsey Probasco Hays and Cardinal Enterprises of Knoxville were selected in 2006 by the City of Knoxville to redevelop and reopen the icon to the community. The structure has undergone a multi-million dollar renovation that includes a public observation deck, office space and a restaurant and event space.
Significance
The Sunsphere in Knoxville, Tennessee was built as the iconic structure for the 1982 World's Fair themed Energy Turns the World. The Sunsphere has left an indelible mark on Knoxville's downtown skyline as its most recognizable feature. The hexagonal steel truss stands 270 feet tall with the top 73 constructed as a sphere made of glass mixed with 24-karat gold dust as a truly dazzling depiction of the sun. It is located as the focal point of the 70 acre World's Fair public park.