Rice University, Howard Keck Hall

Houston, Texas

Firm

FKP

Client

Rice University

Area

88,490 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$18,000,000

Completion Date

03/2000

Designed by William Ward Watkin in 1925, the four-story building suffered from age and insensitive renovations. The design team was asked to restore the brick and stone exterior, and redesign the interior to serve the biophysics and bioengineering departments. Goals included world-class laboratories; creating flexible, adaptable and aesthetic spaces that would increase interaction and collaboration; and preserving and enhancing the building.
The interiors were gutted to the original brick support walls. The ceiling height was maximized to capture natural light, and original corridors were rerouted to create offices and gathering spaces. A new lobby was added, and arched openings were introduced, mirroring those on the exterior. Original white oak doors were restored, and new laboratory woodwork was designed.
Architectural details from the exterior were incorporated further in the interior. Horizontal masonry banding was reinterpreted into corridor floor patterns; ceramic tile accents crowned new arches in the lobby; and clay, teal and golden colors used in scientific element medallions were introduced as accent colors in public spaces.

“Great interior detailing and finishes…great look in lobby. Very handsome.”—2000 Architectural Portfolio jury

Photographer: ©Aker/Zvonkovic Photography