AIA Houston Chapter

A closer look at Electrolit’s U.S. headquarters during Houston X Design Week.

Recognized with an AIA Houston Design Award, the project transforms a former industrial Spanish Revival building along Buffalo Bayou into a warm, contemporary workplace. The design balances the existing concrete structure with natural materials, wood volumes, and diffused natural light to create a relaxed atmosphere that reflects both Electrolit’s Mexican roots and its new home in Houston.

Thank you to Schaum Architects and Electrolit for opening the space and sharing the design approach behind the headquarters.

Thank you to our Houston X Design Week Gold Sponsors, Debner and Harvey Cleary Builders, for supporting this year’s programming and helping make this tour possible.

Women in Architecture gathered for Everyday Self-Defense with Sarah Degar, jiu-jitsu black belt and architect at GSMA.

The session focused on practical strategies for setting boundaries, maintaining personal space, and navigating potentially uncomfortable situations with confidence. Attendees practiced techniques for creating distance, maintaining a steady stance, and safely breaking free from different holds, followed by interactive activities to reinforce the skills learned.

Thank you to Sarah Degar and Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu for sharing these tools and creating a space for learning, practice, and connection.

The newly certified LEED Platinum BCG Houston office offered a closer look at how sustainability and workplace design can work together during Houston X Design Week!

The tour highlighted strategies for daylight and views, energy and water efficiency, and enhanced waste management. The design team also showcased how the cohesive material palette reflects BCG’s brand and local culture while connecting the workspace to the surrounding environment.

A special thank you to BCG and HOK for opening the space to the Houston design community and sharing the design and sustainability strategies behind the project.

Thank you to our Houston X Design Week Gold Sponsors, Debner and Harvey-Cleary, for supporting this year’s programming.

The Martinez Study Abroad Scholarship gives emerging architecture students the opportunity to experience architecture through a broader lens. The scholarship provides financial support for students to study abroad and gain firsthand experience with different cultures, places, and approaches to design.

Congratulations to Fabiana Kinsey, a student at the UH Hines College of Architecture & Design, on receiving this year’s $5,000 scholarship to study in France! We were pleased to celebrate Fabiana alongside Ricardo Martinez, who awarded the scholarship.

Thank you to Martinez Architects and AIA Houston’s Latinos in Architecture Committee for supporting this program and investing in the next generation of architecture professionals!

Design Connections brought together members of Houston’s design community during Houston X Design Week for a conversation about the value of being present, building meaningful relationships, and creating connections that extend beyond the workplace.

Speakers and attendees explored how face-to-face conversations, collaboration, and professional communities continue to shape careers and strengthen the future of design.

Thank you to BRANCH | MaRs for hosting Design Connections.
📍 2910 McKinney

Special thanks to our Design Connections event sponsors: Debner, Thorntree & BRANCH.

Thank you to our Houston X Design Week Gold Sponsors, Debner and Harvey-Cleary, for supporting this week's programming.

Houston X Design Week is happening now through August 7! Explore the full schedule and register for upcoming events here:
https://architecturehouston.org/hxdweek/

Houston x Design Week starts today! ✨

Join us August 3–7 for a week of learning, connection, and design inspiration presented by the AIA Houston Interior Architecture Committee.

Throughout the week, architects, interior designers, students, and design professionals will come together for project tours, lectures, presentations, panel discussions, and CEU opportunities exploring the evolving role of interior architecture and the future of the spaces we create.

Thank you to our 2026 Gold Sponsors, Harvey Cleary and DEBNER, for supporting Houston x Design Week and helping make this week of programming possible.

View the full schedule and register here:
https://architecturehouston.org/hxdweek/

What does the future of creative work look like?

Join us for Power Hour, part of Houston X Design Week. This panel brings together professionals across architecture, interiors, education, and workplace strategy to discuss how creative leaders are adapting, fostering collaboration, and preparing for the future of design.

Hear from moderator Steve Kopp alongside panelists Necia Bonner, Megan Funni, MacKenzie Greckel, Morgan Dougherty, and Garth Williams.

🗓 Wednesday, August 5
⏰ 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Register here:
https://architecturehouston.org/event/powerhour/

Learn more about all Houston X Design Week events:
https://architecturehouston.org/hxdweek/

Why does being present still matter in today’s evolving workplace?

Join Houston X Design Week for a conversation exploring how human connection, professional relationships, and showing up for your design community can create opportunities that technology alone cannot.

🗓 Monday, August 3
⏰ 4:30-6:30 PM

Sign up here: https://architecturehouston.org/event/designconnections/

Explore the full Houston X Design Week schedule here: https://architecturehouston.org/hxdweek/

Thank you to everyone who joined AIA Houston Emerging Professionals and Women in Architecture for Navigating the Ropes: Syncing Skills and Strategy.

The evening brought together emerging professionals and industry leaders for a conversation on career growth, mentorship, and navigating the early years of practice. Attendees heard practical advice and personal experiences on building skills, setting goals, and growing within the profession.

Thank you to our panelists, moderator, committee members, and everyone who attended for helping make the evening a success.