Residential high-rises often lack unique character and a sense of place. However, the Brava Tower in downtown Houston breaks the mold with its exceptional design that pays homage to the rich history of the location. Developed by Hines and designed by MaRS Culture and Munoz + Albin Architecture & Planning, Brava stands tall as a 46-story building that combines modern luxury with a nod to the past.
A Story Behind the Design
Kelie Mayfield, the principal of MaRS, believes that a concept only resonates if it has a compelling story behind it. For Brava, the interiors were influenced by the tower's previous owner, The Houston Chronicle. Mayfield and her team carefully crafted a narrative that infuses the physicality of the newspaper and the stories it held within its pages.
Located in the vibrant arts district, Brava stands out with its unique shape, a slim rectangle angled diagonally to the street. Munoz + Albin, the building architect, ingeniously rotated the structure by 45 degrees to maximize breathtaking views for its 373 rental units. The developer's headquarters, Hines, being just across the street, required Brava to be a remarkable showpiece with distinctive offerings.
Reflecting the Surroundings in Design
Jorge Munoz, principal of Munoz + Albin Architecture, explains that the design of Brava was an innovative solution born out of the constraints of the site. The rounded corners and the bowed vertical edge of the curtain wall give the tower a distinctive boat-like shape that stands in harmony with the surrounding environment. The interior design seamlessly complements the exterior, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
Inspired by Newspapers
MaRS took the challenge of integrating the structural columns and turned it into an opportunity to infuse the interiors with the spirit of a newspaper. Undulating plaster walls inspired by newspaper folds served as a backdrop, guiding visitors through the space and creating a sense of movement, much like a choreography performed in the nearby theaters.
The structural columns, which are visible throughout the tower, are embossed with front-page headlines from The Houston Chronicle dating back to 1908. These headlines serve as a constant reminder of the building's historical roots and its connection to the rich journalistic heritage of Houston.
Local Art and Luxury
In addition to its newspaper-inspired interiors, Brava showcases the work of local artists, adding an extra touch of luxury and artistic flair to the public spaces. From the stunning motor-court entrance with limestone walls to the resident lounge and the penthouse floor corridor, every detail has been carefully curated to create a captivating and inspiring environment.
The tower also boasts an array of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness room, and a sky lounge with a terrace on the 46th floor. These spaces provide residents with opportunities for relaxation, socializing, and enjoying the breathtaking views that Brava has to offer.
With its blend of newspaper history and modern luxury, Brava Tower stands as a testament to the importance of incorporating a sense of place into contemporary architectural design. By paying homage to the past and embracing the local arts scene, Brava has become a true jewel in Houston's downtown skyline.
Image Source: Caption: In the lobby of Brava, a 373-unit rental tower in Houston by MaRS Culture and Munoz + Albin Architecture & Planning, a custom fluorescent-tube fixture spells out Libertas perfundet omnia luce, Latin for Freedom will flood all things with light, referring to freedom of the press and the building’s site, which once belonged to The Houston Chronicle.
