a new face to an aging asset
2013-2015 | +850HRS
Renovation
Corporate/Commercial
Houston,TX.
SD, DD, CD, CA
PUBLICATIONS
The extensive redesign of Two Shell Plaza was driven by the clients need to respond to a new market of tenants searching for a more contemporary atmosphere. The initial scope for work only targeted the interior of the building. However, the idea of resurfacing the exterior façade was suggested as knowledge of decaying travertine on the lower portion of the building was disclosed.
The design team proposed a larger scale base for the building, one that would create an updated and safe experience at the pedestrian level. As this was approved, the process began with a series of studies exploring dozens of possibilities for a new exterior architectural presence. The client’s inclination was to emulate a similar design language to the building’s sister property, One Shell Plaza, across the street.
The façade was to be clad in Concordia Schist, an elegant, dark natural stone that contrasted with the existing travertine above. Vertical slot windows complemented the existing architecture, and the new façade was highlighted by a continuous band of LED lights. A minimal recessed glass wall at the ground level would draw pedestrians into the newly renovated lobby. Silver limestone flooring would seamlessly transition from exterior to interior and complement the new cladding above. Metal louver canopies provide shading for pedestrians and signify the new corner entry at 811 Louisiana.
