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Vernacular Architecture and the Building Arts in Houston


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Vernacular Architecture and the Building Arts in Houston: The Gulf Coast Connection

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Houston Public Library, Central Library

500 McKinney, Houston, Texas 77002

Houston's architectural pedigree is largely known for its modern face, breathtaking scale and well-known individual architects, designers and builders. Yet, historical and contemporary expressions of vernacular architecture in Houston speak to the community-based cultural diversity that has always characterized the city. Spanish, Mexican, African American, German and Anglo influences, among others, shape the city and its home-grown architecture. This fertile combination of cultures is very much in keeping with the rich mix encountered along the Gulf Coast. Over the course of decades, new communities have come to Houston and contributed their knowledge of building traditions to our local skill base and way of life.

Vernacular Architecture and the Building Arts in Houston: The Gulf Coast Connection explores this alternate perspective on Houston’s built environment and features presentations at Houston Public Library on the multicultural roots of Houston’s vernacular styles, live demonstrations of traditional building arts by artisans at The Heritage Society, and a reception for participants and the public at the Architecture Center Houston. All programs are free and open to the public.

Vernacular Architecture and the Building Arts in Houston kicks off at 10 am at the Houston Central Library with a series of talks on the topic by noted local and national folklorists, historic preservation specialists, architects and architectural historians. Participants include Margaret Culbertson, Stephen Fox, Gregory Free, Carl Lindahl. Barry Norwood, Michelangelo Sabatino and John Michael Vlach. Audience interaction with speakers is encouraged. Schedule and bios attached.

At noon, across the street, in the courtyard of The Heritage Society, a number of skilled artisans will demonstrate building crafts such as ornamental ironwork, specialty plastering for architectural interiors, fancy brick masonry and fine carpentry and woodworking. These live demonstrations will continue until 4 p.m.

At 4 p.m. AIA-Houston will host a reception for all participants and the public at the Architecture Center Houston at 315 Capitol, Suite 120. There will be music and food reflecting the Gulf Coast theme of the programs.

I hope it's comfort food.

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