alley theatre houston architecture

Texas Architecture Series: Houston, TX

Established in the year 1836, Houston is a city packed full of award-winning architecture both new and old. It’s unique zoning laws have led to neighborhoods that house buildings of all kinds. Walking through the streets of Houston you’re sure to find a bit of everything all within a small radius. 

While some may find the layout and zoning laws of Houston confusing, others find that it adds to the city’s charm. In this post, we’ll fill you in on some of the most notable architectural achievements that call Houston home so that you can check them out for yourself! 


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Although it’s important to note that this list is just the beginning, and the city has much to offer in terms of design. 

houston architecture

The Rothko Chapel

The Rothko Chapel is adorned with paintings created by the famed abstract artist Mark Rothko, but most will agree that the building is a work of art in and of itself. The building serves as a universal chapel and meditative/contemplative place for people from all walks of life. 

Approaching the building from the outside you’re greeted with an eye-catching, abstract statue that welcomes guests as they approach a calm, soothing reflection pool. The building itself appears to be unassuming brick, but once through the doors, the architectural marvels begin to reveal themselves. 

There are no windows inside, aside from a single skylight from which light pours down, but thanks to the unique octagon design, it still manages to feel welcoming and open. 

Although the building is currently under renovation, be sure to add it to your must-see list once reopened! 

alley theatre houston architecture

Alley Theatre Building

The Alley Theatre building has been a Houston staple for 49 years. It has not only enriched the city with its design but with all of the events it has hosted over the years, too! 

Long since deemed an architectural masterpiece in the region, renovators are working to preserve the original design of the building and to keep as much of it intact as possible. 

Approaching from the outside it looks more like a fortress than a theatre. It’s unique curved peaks and smooth, grey exterior add an element of futurism that was especially unique for its time and still piques interest today. 

In addition to being incredibly eye-catching, the towers also double as housing for the building’s cooling system – making the alley theatre innovative in more ways than one. These are just a few of the many reasons that have made the theatre both a community and an architectural landmark. 

jung center houston architecture

The Jung Center of Houston 

The Jung Center is a non-profit that serves the continuing education of the Houston community. It hosts events and workshops pertaining to everything from art, psychology, spirituality and much more. The building itself is just as interesting as the events that it hosts!

The building didn’t always house The Jung Center. The building was gifted to the center in 1985 by Carolyn Grant Fay. At first glance, the rounded arches that house the entryway may have you thinking that you’re entering a cathedral. 

The main entryway arch is offset by other strategically placed arches that delicately encase the windows on both sides of the building. The interior of the building is beautifully symmetrical and endowed with a variety of thoughtful accents throughout. 

Be sure to stop by and maybe and check out a class while you’re at it! 

Houston Municipal Airport Terminal architecture

Houston Municipal Airport Terminal 

An airport terminal may not sound all that exciting, but if you’re interested in architecture you’ll be amazed when your eyes set sight on this one. The terminal now functions as a museum that works to preserve its iconic style. 

This building has just the right amount of symmetry to hold the viewer’s attention long enough for them to be able to soak up all of the other super interesting design elements. The tower that sits on top of the building acts as a focal point that brings the rounded edges and sleek windows together at the crown of the building’s octagon core. 

This place is the perfect example of the art deco architectural style that was so popular in the 1940s and is beginning to see a bit of a revival here today. 

aesthetic meaning in architecture

Looking to Give Your Building Some More Style?

Architecture is a brilliant example of how we can express certain times, functions, or ideas through practical building and art. These are all excellent large scale examples, but architecture doesn’t have to be all big museums. Bringing elements of design and updating your own home or business can make similar statements about how you see the world around you.

At Portella we go above and beyond to make sure that people are able to get exactly the look that they are going for with their building projects. Whether you’re looking to renovate a space or start out with great windows and doors off the bat in your new building, we’ve got you covered! 

All of our products are handcrafted in a state of the art facility, and the quality shines through right away. We’ve got a little something for everyone and to suit the needs of building types across the board. 

You can learn more about our offerings right here

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