Project Resolution

EXXon Production and Research Facility in Houston, Texas, is a corporate renovation where the client was interested in creating a dynamic street identity while providing a much needed passenger drop off .The existing lawn and street parking limited both views

and access to the new main entrance, making it difficult for visitors to find their way into the building.

The renovated entry connects the street to the building. It was designed to be highly functional and reflect the building architecture. A beautiful ceremonial auto court, new main entry, waiting terraces, the preservation of nineteen 40" caliper Overcup Oaks, and lush landscaping were the primary features of the project.

 

Role of the Landscape Architect 

As the primary consultant the design team worked closely with the client to develop a landscape that would serve as a ceremonial entry and drop off for visitors and provide an escape for their employees. The planting and hardscape materials were designed to

accentuate the building architecture. It was very important .to the landscape architect that the new development appears to be part of the original 1950 era building. Terracotta concrete unit payers matching the red brick of the building were utilized for the entry drive and charcoal colored pavers were introduced to reflect the horizontal lines of the architecture. This horizontality was further strengthened by extending the bands with beds of Bicolor African Iris. The iris bands were then terminated by 10" caliper Willow Oaks. Limestone paving was utilized at the auto court to coordinate with the limestone on the building. Black slate pavers and limestone planters were designed to produce a strong connection to the front door. Handicapped accesses were detailed with stainless steel handrails. Small gathering terraces flank both sides of the main entry providing a garden setting for visitors and employees. These terraces, surrounded by lush, ornamental plantings, were carefully placed under the existing Overcup Oaks so that they might appear as an original element of the building.

 

Special Factors

Nineteen existing Overcup Oaks, among the largest to be, found in Harris County, were of great importance in the development of a design. The landscape architect worked diligently to protect these trees from the new construction. Great attention was given to existing grades, required drainage and construction detailing, in order to not disturb the root structure and to preserve these trees.

Other challenges included the accommodation of existing circulation from parking areas, new ADA access into the building, and designing a passenger drop off area that is in harmony with a nearly fifty year old building.

 

Project Significance

The landscape architect worked closely with the client group to develop the concept of an entry court that was both highly functional and worked well with the existir\9 architecture. It was also the client's desire to construct a space that would provide a new, updated

building identity for their employees, clients, as well as the general public.