Artisan Alley
Houston, TX
ASID Ruby Award-winning Project
Artisan Alley's design concept, inspired by the intricate organization of an animal cell, embodies creativity, innovation, and vibrant cultural exchange. Just as a cell's components harmonize, diverse functions integrate seamlessly within this mixed-use structure. Interconnected spaces promote interaction and creativity, with a central atrium acting as a nucleus for community engagement and artistic expression. The building's curved walls and organic forms emulate cellular morphology, creating an immersive environment that symbolizes urban vitality and interconnectedness.
The project location is conveniently situated just two blocks away from Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros, and a short distance from Discovery Green. Opting for "creative design" makes sense here, as it's the ideal spot to inject the space with vibrancy, innovation, and a dynamic cultural atmosphere. This creative space will feature exhibition areas, pop-up stores, live performances, an art supply thrift store, a maker space, and an entire floor dedicated to studios and a gallery for artist residency incorporating creative architectural elements.
11,535 sq.ft
2024
Autodesk AutoCAD, Trimble SketchUp, Chaos Enscape
Sq.ft of Structure
Date
Software Used
First Floor
The first floor of Artisan Alley welcomes visitors with a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, starting with a reception area that sets the tone for the space. A flexible open area serves as a versatile hub for performance art, pop-up markets, and fundraising events, adapting to various community needs and fostering a sense of communal creativity. A poke bowl restaurant adds a culinary delight to the mix, providing a place for visitors to relax and enjoy fresh, innovative dishes. The walls are adorned with graffiti murals by local artists, injecting the space with bold colors and expressive art. The ceiling features a wavy, curved lighting design that mimics the intricate forms of an animal cell, creating an immersive and visually striking environment that emphasizes the project's theme of interconnectedness and organic beauty.
Second Floor
The second floor of Artisan Alley is a vibrant and functional space dedicated to fostering creativity and resourcefulness. The art supply thrift store stands out with its unique aesthetic, featuring some exposed walls that add a raw, industrial feel to the space. The ceiling is painted with bold, pop colors from Benjamin Moore, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Complementing this are sections of black and white patterned wallpaper, adding a striking contrast and visual interest. This dynamic environment encourages artists to explore and find inspiration among the varied supplies available. Adjacent to the thrift store is the maker space, an area designed to spark innovation and hands-on creativity. Though not included in the contract, the maker space provides a collaborative environment where artists and creators can experiment and bring their ideas to life, further enhancing the building's mission of promoting vibrant cultural exchange and artistic expression.
Third Floor
The third floor of Artisan Alley is a haven for creativity and artistic exploration, offering a range of studios in various sizes to accommodate artists' diverse needs. At the heart of this floor is an art gallery, a sophisticated space designed to showcase the works of resident and visiting artists. Adjacent to the gallery, a cozy lounge area provides a comfortable spot for relaxation and informal gatherings, encouraging interaction and collaboration among artists and visitors.
The true centerpiece of the third floor is the stunning mosaic glass dome. This architectural marvel not only adds a touch of elegance but also serves a functional purpose: when sunlight streams through the mosaic, it scatters vibrant, colorful rays throughout the space, creating a dynamic and ever-changing play of light and color. This feature encapsulates the essence of Artisan Alley, symbolizing the fusion of creativity, innovation, and the harmonious integration of diverse elements, much like the intricate organization of an animal cell.
