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!
Gibbs College is pleased to present the exhibition Vollendorf in Oklahoma: The Architecture of Dean Bryant Vollendorf during the Spring 2025 semester. It will be on display in Gould Hall, on the OU-Norman Campus, from February 16, 2026 - March 13, 2026.
On November 21, 2025, the Mainsite Contemporary Art gallery was transformed into a showcase of innovation and craftsmanship for the University of Oklahoma’s furniture design build studio exhibition, “Purpose in Form.”
Associate Professors Lee Fithian, Ph.D., and Elizabeth Pober have published a chapter in the recently released New Perspectives in Indoor Air Quality, published by Elsevier. Their contribution, titled “Chapter 16 – Architecture and the Challenges of Indoor Air Quality,” examines the relationship between architecture and indoor air quality.
