This semester, a graduate architecture design studio led by Prof. Amy Leveno, AIA, took an educational trip to Houston, focusing on architectural spaces designed for art and art creation. The trip provided the graduate students with an invaluable opportunity to see firsthand some of the most innovative architectural projects and firms in action.
During their visit, the students explored significant works by notable architects and firms including Steven Holl Architects, Rafael Moneo, Renzo Piano Building Workshop, OMA, Michael Maltzan Architects, Karamuk Kuo Architects, and Thomas Phifer and Partners. Each location offered a unique perspective on how spaces can be crafted to enhance artistic expression and creativity.
Architecture students tour ongoing construction.
A special part of the journey included tours of the ongoing construction of the new Visual Arts Building at Rice University, designed by Diller Scofidio and Renfro, as well as two private residences by Content Architecture. These visits allowed students to observe the complexities involved in bringing architectural designs to life.
Architecture students in the studio course.
Adding a personal touch to the experience, OU alumnus Paul Chung, who serves as an architect at PBK, led a tour of PBK’s corporate headquarters. This was a fantastic opportunity for the students to learn about the inner workings of a national architectural firm and consider future career possibilities.
Architecture students in the studio course.
We are grateful to everyone in Houston who hosted our students and contributed to this enriching experience!
The Gibbs Design in Action Awards (GDAA) program, led by Dr. Wanda Liebermann, has announced its 2026–2027 funded student projects. The initiative supports design and research work that addresses social, cultural, and economic issues in the built environment through collaboration with faculty and community partners.
The OU Institute for Quality Communities (IQC) 2024 collaboration with the Historic Threatt Filling Station has been recognized in the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City's newly released Byways Report: The Scenic Route to Rural Prosperity – a story-driven publication exploring how road trip culture and place-based tourism can fuel economic growth in rural communities.
The Gibbs College of Architecture is pleased to announce that Camille Germany, Chief of Staff, has been named the 2026 recipient of the university-wide Jennifer L. Wise Good Stewardship Award.
