"We had almost no photographic or other documentation of the original building, which was massively altered during a 1950s renovation," says Jeff Gerber, CEO of lead design firm PGAL and principal-in-charge on the project. "It was also challenging to introduce modern technology, sustainability, accessibility, life safety and security features without sacrificing historic integrity."

Restoration included reopening the six-story rotunda, reinstallation of the cupola and reopening the original double stairways at the upper levels.

This project also won an award of merit in the specialty contracting category.

Key Players

Owner: Harris County, Texas

General Contractor: Vaughn Construction, Houston

Lead Design: PGAL, Houston

Structural: Walter P Moore, Houston

MEP: Jacobs Carter & Burgess, Houston

Submitted by PGAL and Vaughn Construction