Complex, controversial, and prolific, Howard Barnstone was a central figure in the world of 20th-century modern architecture. Recognized as Houston’s foremost modern architect in the 1950s, Barnstone came to prominence for his designs with partner Preston M. Bolton, which transposed the rigorous and austere architectural practices of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe to the hot, steamy coastal plain of Texas.

Join Barrie Scardino Bradley, Stephen Fox and Michelangelo Sabatino for an online conversation and look at their recently published book, Making Houston Modern: The Life and Architecture of Howard Barnstone (University of Texas Press).

Making Houston Modern explores the provocative architect’s life and work, not only through the lens of his architectural practice, but also by delving into his personal life, class identity and connections to the artists, critics, collectors and museum directors who forged Houston’s distinctive culture in the postwar era.

The presentation will be followed by a Q&A with the authors.

Preservation Houston is presenting this event in partnership with Architecture Center Houston and Houston Mod.

Event format

This event will be presented via Zoom. Registrants will receive additional information, including a link to join the event, the morning of September 15.

Ordering the book

Making Houston Modern can be purchased through Brazos Bookstore (order online or call 713-523-0701)

Registration and pricing

This event is free and open to the public. Please consider becoming a Preservation Houston member or making a donation when you register to support our future programming.

Preservation Houston is presenting this event as part of the Bart Truxillo Program Series, which honors the memory of pioneer preservationist and PH co-founder Bart Truxillo. The Bart Truxillo Program Series is made possible by the generous contributions of Preservation Houston's members and friends.