Join the Columbia Club of South Texas for an evening with

Architecture Professor Gwendolyn Wright at the iconic Julia Ideson Building. 

"A Legacy of Modern Realities and Imaginaries"
Certain broad architectural and urbanization shifts have defined American cities during the 20th century: urban regulations v. a Free-market, diverse new housing prototypes and residential separations, commercial branding, modern infrastructure improvements, design that takes account of particular natural environments. The talk will explore how Houston fits into these patterns and where its distinctive patterns deviated from them. 

Professor Wright focuses on American architecture and urbanism from the late-nineteenth century to present day. She was the first woman to receive tenure at GSAPP and also works with the history and art history departments. Since 2003, Professor Wright has hosted the popular PBS television series, "History Detectives".

About the venue - In the heart of the city, the historic Julia Ideson Building's distinctive and elegant Spanish architecture stands out among the glass contemporary buildings that surround it. As you enter into this 1926 structure, it takes you back to a Houston that once was. The sophisticated grandeur and history of the building can be felt as you walk the reflective Spanish-brick floors, through the grand staircase, the Tudor Gallery surrounded by large marble pillars, the Reading Room with its original wooden fixtures, a one-of-a-kind exhibit room showing some of the Library's archival collection, and then as you look up to the breathtakingly gold and vibrant colored wood flowers on the ceiling.  

Free street parking is available after 6:00 pm. 

Donna MacPhee '89CC, P:17CC, Vice President, Alumni Relations and President, Columbia Alumni Association, will also be in attendance. 

Thank you to our event partners: 

Event timeline: 

6:00 p.m. to 6:20 p.m. Registration begins
6:20 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Program begins
6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Professor Wright speaks
7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Q&A
7:15 p.m. Program ends