The New Architecture Center

The new Architecture Center is prominently located on the southeast corner of Commerce & Travis in a historic 1906 B.A. Riesner building. One of the historic features that was preserved and restored is the building’s historic façade. It offers an excellent visibility, public access and a storefront.

To protect the building from future flooding, a custom-designed flood mitigation system was installed. In its new home, ArCH serves as a demonstration space for architectural resiliency and sustainability.

The new Center is designed to host public programs of up to 250 attendees. Every year, Architecture Center Houston programs are attended by over 4,500 people. The headquarters can be accessed by the light rail and 3 major highways.

The gallery space is regularly used for exhibitions, community engagement events, lectures, presentations, K-12 programs, workshops, and networking events. The new Center has become a hub for majority of AIA Houston and ArCH programs. ArCH also shares a home with AIA Houston whose members volunteer their time and expertise to produce the public programs that allow ArCH to serve as the destination for experiencing and understanding architecture and design in Greater Houston. The transformative work of ArCH is also possible due to prolific collaborations with more than 40 local schools, more than 100 industry allies, the city’s historic preservation community, city and county government, local nonprofits, and the Houston’s media outlets.

ArCH’s programs are designed primarily by members of AIA Houston. Research shows that majority of design professionals and AIA Houston members live and work in areas close to the northern part of downtown. Moving to the new location is essential for ArCH, as it will provide members and Houston public with more convenience and opportunities for involvement.