Renovation at University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work Reflects Transparency and Invites Collaboration

Designed by RDLR Architects, the recently completed addition and renovation at University of Houston’s Graduate College of Social Work is an epicenter of conversations reimagining social, racial, economic, and political justice, both locally and globally. Due to the growing program, RDLR Architects designed a terraced Lobby Pavilion addition to the existing 4-story building and designed recirculation of the first floor to accommodate the new entry.

The new pavilion brightens up the current façade, creates an entry to the college and welcomes people from all walks of life to have a place at the table. Enclosed with glass on three sides, the new glass enclosed entry reflects the ideals of transparency for which college alumni advocate. Columns on each side of the pavilion branch out like a tree–the most basic of shelters–evoking a sense of nurture, care, and peace. A centralized large wood table within the pavilion invites collaboration from everyone who enters to join the conversation, share their experience, and learn from another.

The project was recognized as a 2021 ICE Award winner at the Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Houston (ABC) Excellence in Construction Awards (EIC)