George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Mickey Leland International Terminal D
George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is one of the five largest airports in the United States. Its recent International Terminal Redevelopment Program of consolidation, expansion, and modernization includes the renovation of Terminal D and construction of a new concourse: the D-West Pier, that can simultaneously accommodate six wide-body aircraft and be convertible to ten narrow-body airplanes. Intended primarily to serve international flights, the Terminal D project is designed to fulfill IAH’s vision to “Establish Houston Airport as a five-star global air service gateway where the magic of flight is celebrated,” supporting their overarching project goal “To establish a continuous identity for the entire passenger experience (curb-to-gate-to-curb) through interior finishes and architecture that are inspired by Houston.” Building finishes, color palettes and motifs; the art and imagery associated with the city, its music, lighting, and amenities - all were inspirations for a thematic consistency to the project’s architecture and interior design that ties them to the airport’s overall passenger experience. The design draws upon IAH’s modernist architectural legacy; Houston’s rich cultural diversity and natural environment; and the region’s traditional building style borne of adaptation to south Texas’ hot and humid sub-tropical climate. Orthogonal building geometries, light-filtering clerestories, and screens, and a restrained material and color palette provide cohesion, a sense of place, and cues for intuitive wayfinding from curbside to airside boarding gate. The D-West Pier is organized to support its various activities and functions: international travelers arrive on the mezzanine level along the east wall, open to morning light and views. A central clerestory and light-filtering screen run the length of the concourse, defining the main circulation spine. Throughout the day, sunlight streams through the screen’s customized circular perforations and angled tabs in ever-changing patterns that recall the changing shadows cast by a live oak’s spreading canopy. Along the west wall, ziggurat-shaped fenestrations frame views to the outside while also shielding retail and informal seating areas from direct sun. In addition to optimizing views and the structure’s thermal performance, the punched openings feature linear LED light fixtures integrated into each window jamb, individually controlled to provide a range of lighting scenes and moods to augment various experiences of different times of day, seasons, or special events. Designed to LEED Silver-equivalence, the new Pier has a projected 129 EUI, 33% water use savings, incorporated responsible material sourcing, and LEED-compliant measures for managing indoor air quality.
University of Houston Retail, Auxiliary, and Dining Center
Unleashing the Senses The Retail, Auxiliary, and Dining (RAD) Center at the University of Houston stands as a beacon of restorative design, being the first mass timber construction on campus. This groundbreaking structure replaces a below-grade dining facility that was severely damaged during Hurricane Harvey. Nestled in the campus' "woodlands" area, the RAD Center sensitively blends food and art within a natural setting. It stands out from its blank-facade neighbors through inviting, activated edges where students are encouraged to gather, linger, and socialize. Design Highlights Connection with Nature: The RAD Center's design emphasizes a strong bond with the surrounding woodlands, using vertical façade rhythms and upper story glass to adapt to the changing environment. Ground-level transparency further integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless transition. Mass Timber Construction: The use of mass timber not only enhances the organic aesthetic but also allows for the reuse of existing structural framing and foundations, making it a far more sustainable and elegant solution. Material Innovation: Clad in familiar campus materials applied in a new way, the RAD Center creates a cohesive student experience that feels inherently part of the university and part of the woodlands. A Holistic Experience The RAD Center provides a welcoming environment, emphasizing physical well-being through healthy dining operations and a stimulating physical experience. It aims to nurture the mind, body, and spirit through social gatherings, nutritious food, and inspiring art. This design truly unleashes the senses, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Site Response The RAD Center is strategically situated on the footprint of the existing building to minimize disruption to the adjacent woodlands. This careful placement ensures that the natural environment surrounding the project remains largely undisturbed, preserving the ecological balance and beauty of the campus's woodlands area. By reusing the existing structure, the project reduces the need for extensive excavation and construction activities. This approach not only demonstrates a commitment to sustainability but also enhances the integration of the building with its natural surroundings, creating a harmonious blend of architecture and nature that benefits both the occupants and the environment.
JPMorgan Chase Tower (Houston)
Skyscraper at 600 Travis Street in downtown Houston, Texas, USA.
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Open in Atlas MapFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the Houston architecture walking tour take?+
The self-guided walking tour covers approximately 7.6 km with 4 stops. Allow approximately 3 hours including 20 minutes of viewing time per building.
Is the Houston architecture tour free?+
Yes, this is a completely free self-guided walking tour. You can view the route on the interactive map, export it to Google Maps for navigation, and explore at your own pace.
Do I need to book the Houston architecture tour in advance?+
No booking is required — this is a self-guided tour that you can start at any time. All buildings can be viewed from the outside. For guided tours with expert commentary, we recommend checking GetYourGuide for local architecture tours.
What is the best time to do the Houston architecture walking tour?+
Morning light (before 11am) is ideal for photography of building facades. Weekdays tend to be less crowded around commercial buildings. Allow a full morning or afternoon for the complete tour.