Library of the Future — A tour Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library
An architecture tour of the completed Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library will offer real-world insights into how design can help libraries transform into hubs for cutting-edge technology and multi-disciplinary creativity. The tour will look at how embracing new media and diverse community needs inspires, uplifts, and answers the question of how to bridge traditional and innovative programs to foster collaboration. Once a forgotten post office site, the Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library is a vibrant, art-filled public gathering space with a café, flexible meeting areas, private study rooms, and a variety of seating. In addition to housing traditional book stacks and cozy reading areas for all ages, the library features innovative spaces for collaboration and interaction, including a maker lab, audio/visual and podcast recording spaces, and TECHLink services.
About the Speakers
Fernando Brave, FAIA, RID, LEED AP
Principal
BRAVE/architecture
As Founder and Principal of BRAVE/architecture, Fernando, a registered architect and LEED Accredited Professional, directs the firm and its work. His varied professional experience ranges from projects for individuals, community renovations, to large institutional projects for clients such as the YMCA of Greater Houston and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. He has also been a key player in large masterplanning and development projects both in the United States and abroad. As Principal-in-Charge and Lead Designer,Fernando has final review and oversight of all design.
Fernando has lectured on Green Architecture amongst other topics and contributed to multiple publications. His work has been featured in Architectural Record, Texas Architect, The Houston Chronicle, The Dallas Morning News, the Houston Architectural Guide, American School & University Magazine, and numerous other publications. Additionally, he has received many awards, including several private competitions, Honor Awardsfrom the Houston American Institute of Architects, Texas Society of Architects, American Society of Interior Designers, and the Houston Chronicle, among many others. As a team member, he also supported AIA National Award for Religious Architecture and the Associated General Contractors APEX Award-winning projects.
Prior to moving to Houston in 1987, Fernando completed a six-year undergraduate architecture program atthe Universidad de Belgrano in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he briefly taught design studio and architectural history. He then graduated from the University of Houston with a Master of Architecture in 1988. Fernando was elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects in 2012 in recognitionof his advancement of the profession through his outstanding practice. Fernando has traveled extensively through Europe and the Americas. He also continues to be a part of numerous boards, including the City of Houston Planning Commission, the Rice Design Alliance, the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission, the AIA Houston, and the Houston Chamber Orchestra.
Peter Ho, AIA
Associate Principal
BRAVE/architecture
As an Associate Principal, Peter’s focus includes overseeing all phases of design and construction on projects ranging from civic facilities, commercial spaces, interior renovations, and masterplanning. Peter, a registered architect, has been a key player in the firm’s success for almost two decades as a major design team contributor and production studio leader. He enjoys the challenge of space programming and creating concept renderings. This technical proficiency in design software and graphic visualization allows Peter to leverage histalents in managing and producing quick conceptual models, presentation-quality renderings, and virtual reality immersion.
From concept to reality, some of Peter’s award-winning projects include the Dr. Shannon WalkerNeighborhood Library, Houston Zoo Headquarters, and ReCenter—all of which have collected numerous accolades. He graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Architecture in 2007 and continues to serve as a mentor for emerging design professionals. He even finds teaching opportunities within theintricacies of construction detailing, manufacturing, and installations. Most notably, Peter is an assertive listener, a skilled technical thinker, and an empathic problem-solver.
Parking information
Surface lot and street parking available.
