The Memorial Townhouses presented an interesting design challenge: Capture magnificent views of the downtown skyline and still anchor the residences in the tradition of their surroundings within the historic Sixth Ward.

MC2 Architect's design establishes a dialogue between the high-rises of downtown and the traditional residences of the historical Sixth-Ward District. The townhouses are conceived as a series of interlocking volumes. The volumes are staggered to enhance views of downtown from the living rooms and master bedrooms. The staggering breaks up the townhouses' mass to create a scale that is more compatible with existing houses in the neighborhood.

The main facade of the townhouses is based on two sets of steel frames. The frames provide the support for floor-to-ceiling glass walls in the living rooms and master suites. The facade both maximizes the skyline view and recalls the steel and glass of the skyscrapers that the townhouses face. The steel frames also provide structural support for long roof overhangs and balconies and the lateral strength needed for the conventional wood frame construction of the townhouses.

Creating openness and light
The interior spaces are defined by two sets of intersecting shed roofs. The first set is turned toward the north, from which clerestories draw light into the studies and the family rooms. The second set, facing south provides a long roof overhang to protect the glass facade and balconies from the hot Texas sun.

The intersecting shapes create an interior that provides openness, light and free flow of movement. The dining area on the second level looks over the living room and out to the Houston skyline. The balconies on the third level float over the family areas and provide a view across them to the gardens below. Open steel staircases connect all three levels and act as conduits for natural light from skylights that washes down through all levels.