Gensler completes a campus for special needs persons providing transitional housing and programs creating an emerging community within a historically industrial neighborhood in Houston

Gensler completes a campus for special needs persons providing transitional housing and programs creating an emerging community within a historically industrial neighborhood in Houston

Global Design News – March 29, 2024 – Houston, Texas, USA

Prominently situated in Houston’s East Downtown (EaDo), The Center for Pursuit designed by Tiger Lyon of Gensler, is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting choice, growth, and independence for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For its conceptual design, the project has been awarded an Honorable Mention at the 2023 American Architecture Awards from The Chicago Athenaeum and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.

Consisting of three buildings surrounding a public green space and a private outdoor terrace designated for program participants, the campus architecture embodies EaDo’s artistic warehouse atmosphere by seamlessly integrating reclaimed brick from the previous facility with modern art elements.

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These include sculptures and graffiti walls installed by local artists, creating a dynamic blend of historical charm and contemporary expression.

Exterior glass was incorporated into each of the buildings to promote transparency from the inside out, aligning with the nonprofit organization’s dedication to establishing a welcoming environment for its clients.

In line with its mission, it was imperative for the nonprofit to integrate itself into the community to cultivate greater acceptance for its clients.

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Project: The Center for Pursuit
Architects: Gensler
Lead Architect: Tiger Lyon
General Contractor: David E. Harvey Builders, Inc.
Client: The Center for Pursuit
Photographers: Grant Gay, Gensler

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