University of Houston - University Center Transformation

The University Center (UC) is undergoing a complete renovation of approximately 160,000 gross square feet to transform the facility into the central focal point of the campus. The renovation efforts address dining spaces; deferred maintenance and code compliance issues; renew all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems; enclosing the existing arbor space and developing it into a visually rich, lively, and multi-faceted central space; adding a mixture of lounge spaces throughout; and offering modern conveniences to students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

The renovated indoor arbor will be the “see and be seen” space in the complex. A stepped-down lounge space will allow students to gather informally or view videos on a large feature wall.

Through this transformation, the University Center will become the campus’ venue of choice for all significant events, offering financial, functional, and aesthetic benefits to this Tier-1 University.

Two additions will expand the University Center by 146,393 gross square feet. The addition on the north will house student organization space, administrative space, student government offices, and a 60-seat senate chamber, and the addition on the east will house additional meeting space, dining facilities, and a new 450-seat multipurpose theatre, which is being designed to accommodate movies, step shows, lectures, and small musical productions.

Schuler Shook and JaffeHolden are collaborating with WHR on the theatre and television studio, as well as on the development of an outdoor plaza and indoor arbor space.  The outdoor plaza is being designed to minimize noise to surrounding buildings by strategically placing speakers in the plaza and allowing it to be open on two sides.