The Gerald D. Hines Architecture Building houses the Top 40 School of Architecture in the US | Bernadette Tomaliwan / The Cougar
The moment one walks into UH, it seems that the Gerald D. Hines School of Architecture demands focus of attention on it.
The building is certainly striking, but where does its unique design stem from? The building was loosely based on designs by French neoclassical architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux, according to architecture professor Patrick Peters.
“[The building] It was a postmodern interpretation of a project designed by Ledoux for the idyllic city of Chu, France,” Peters said. “It was originally designed as a ‘house of education’.”
Ledox Concept For Chaux, originally proposed in the late 18th century, it never came to fruition, nor did his original “House of Education” design. However, the unique appearance will not be left to rest in the annals of history.
In 1982, UH management was eager to complete the building’s architectural design. After proposing and subsequently canceling an open design competition, university officials chose renowned architect Philip Johnson to head The project.
The University’s Library of Architecture, Design, and Arts Coordinator Catherine Essinger emphasized the historical significance of Johnson’s design inspiration.
“Ledoux’s design was never implemented, so this is the only iteration of his work,” Isinger said. However, it is not a direct copy. Johnson and his partner, John Bergé, changed dimensions and used many of their own postmodern elements.”
At the time it was created, the building was Considered To be a much-needed addition to the campus which, although impressive, lacks flair in the design of its structures. Despite this, Peters said, the building’s architecture, and especially the lobby, has become a much-loved space.
“A space comes alive when it’s the site of big public events,” Peters said. “Big ideas are most suitable for this heroic space.”
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