Supporting a Mission of Inclusion
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston is dedicated to fostering one-to-one relationships between children facing adversity and volunteer mentors, helping these children succeed and thrive. The new headquarters is designed to embody this mission, serving as a catalyst for community engagement. The building’s architecture, characterized by its visual porosity, vibrant colors, and abundant natural light, aims to create a joyful and hopeful presence in the city. This design can potentially serve as a model for future Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters nationwide.
Strategic Location and Design
Situated just north of downtown Houston, the headquarters leverages its location on an urban island between the elevated I-45 highway and the bustling Washington Avenue Corridor. The design provides different experiences for pedestrians on the sidewalk and motorists on the highway, enhancing the building’s visibility and attractiveness to potential mentors. The dynamic seesaw roof and varied window openings offer different perspectives from various city vantage points, reflecting the organization’s core values of openness and vitality.
Maximizing Spatial Experience
The building’s unique volume responds to its irregular footprint, maximizing spatial experiences both inside and out. The design combines private and open office spaces with interview and meeting rooms, a children’s playroom, a café, and a multi-purpose event space connected to an open-air balcony with views of downtown Houston and the Buffalo Bayou. Standard building systems and cost-effective materials were used to create an inspiring environment that extends beyond the typical office setting.
Enhancing Interaction and Community Presence
A three-story open atrium at the west entrance serves as a public zone, featuring a main staircase and balcony system that physically and visually connects the three floors. This design enhances interaction, communication, and fluidity of movement within the building. At night, the illuminated headquarters stands out alongside the downtown skyline, becoming a beacon of community within Houston.
The new headquarters of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Houston is more than just an office space; it is a symbol of hope, inclusivity, and community engagement, reflecting the organization’s mission and serving as an inspiring environment for all who enter.
