RDLR Story: Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston

Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston

Location: Houston, Tx

Size: 12,900 sq ft.

Who We Are

Founded in 1982, Rey de la Reza Architects, Inc. (RDLR) is recognized throughout Texas as a community-driven architectural firm providing design excellence and outstanding project management services in the Houston area.

With a 40-year history, the firm has been involved in the design of a variety of transit, commercial, educational, urban design, residential, and renovation projects and continues to provide exceptional service to public entities including: City of Houston, Fort Bend County, Houston Airport System, METRO, HCTRA, The Harris Center, numerous ISD’s, GSA, USPS and TxDOT. Our firm is certified MWBE and Texas HUB.

40+ Awards

AIA Houston Firm of the Year

Texas Society of Architects Firm Award

Spinning Threads of Peace

The Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston (EGMH) stands as a synthesis of architectural inspiration and profound social impact. Inspired by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, the museum’s design transcends mere aesthetics, embracing the ethos of economic self-sufficiency and nonviolent protest embodied by the Charkha spinning wheel. As a significant cultural and educational landmark, EGMH is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, whose life and teachings continue to inspire generations worldwide.

In a quest for authentic inspiration, the design team embarked on a transformative journey to India. There, they immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Indian culture, absorbing the simplicity and spiritual resonance that infused Gandhi’s life. This pilgrimage served as a wellspring of creativity, infusing the museum’s design with a genuine reverence for Gandhi’s legacy. The design seamlessly integrates elements of Indian heritage with modern architectural practices, creating a space that is both reflective and forward-looking.

At the heart of the museum, a life-sized bronze statue of Gandhi presides over a Charkha, its radial spokes mirrored in the pavement joints that weave throughout the building establishing the structural grid. This central feature not only honors Gandhi’s commitment to the Charkha as a symbol of self-reliance but also serves as a visual and thematic anchor for the entire museum. Visitors are invited to reflect on the significance of the Charkha and its role in Gandhi’s vision for an independent and selfsufficient India.

Echoing Gandhi’s disdain for material excess, the museum’s exterior showcases locally sourced Texas masonry, simulated wood slats, and insulated glazing. Inside, terrazzo flooring and exposed structural elements reflect a commitment to simplicity and integrity. The lobby’s shimmering lights, reminiscent of Diwali, exude a warmth that embodies the profound symbolism of the festival—the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. This thoughtful design choice reinforces the museum’s mission to illuminate Gandhi’s teachings and their relevance to contemporary society.

With a focus on environmental stewardship, the museum’s design minimizes its carbon footprint and aims for LEED certification. During the planning and construction phases, existing trees were preserved, acting as a natural barrier against nearby highways, providing serenity for visitors, and minimizing environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability aligns with Gandhi’s principles of living harmoniously with nature and reducing one’s ecological footprint.

The Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is not merely a repository of artifacts but a dynamic educational center dedicated to telling Gandhi’s story. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations bring to life the key events and philosophies that defined Gandhi’s journey. From his early years in Porbandar to his leadership in the Indian independence movement, the museum offers a comprehensive narrative that highlights Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to nonviolence, civil disobedience, and social justice.

One of the museum’s primary objectives is to foster a deeper understanding of Gandhi’s principles among visitors of all ages. Educational programs, workshops, and lectures are designed to engage students, scholars, and the general public, encouraging them to explore the relevance of Gandhi’s teachings in addressing contemporary global challenges. By promoting values of tolerance, love, and nonviolent conflict resolution, the museum aims to inspire individuals to become agents of positive social change in their communities.

The impact of EGMH on the Houston community and beyond is multifaceted. As a cultural and educational hub, the museum serves as a gathering place for individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange ideas. Through its outreach programs, the museum collaborates with local schools, universities, and community organizations to promote the principles of nonviolence and social justice. By doing so, it contributes to the creation of a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Ultimately, the Eternal Gandhi Museum Houston is a living testament to Gandhi’s timeless message. In a world rife with division and discord, the museum stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring individuals to embrace Gandhi’s values and work towards a more peaceful and just world. Through its innovative design, educational initiatives, and community engagement, EGMH continues to honor Gandhi’s legacy, ensuring that his teachings remain a guiding light for future generations.

Firm Leadership

RDLR Architects firm Principals: Jennifer DaRos, AIA, LEED AP; Howard Merrill, AIA, LEED AP; Shane Wilson, AIA; Lorie Westrick, AIA, LEED AP; Sally Diaz, AIA, RID; and Daniel Ortiz, AIA, LEED AP.

Firm Awards

Throughout its existence, Architects has received numerous awards from our peers as well as our user groups and clients. The list that follows reflects a portion of the many accomplishments of this firm.

2024 Outstanding Diverse Organization Houston Business Journal

2024 Houston Business Journal Landmark Award Finalist, City of Houston City Hall Basement Renovation 2024 ASLA Honor Award: Planning & Analysis; Houston Resiliance Hub

Network Master Plan

Outstanding Diverse Organization Houston Business Journal 2022 Award of Merit from ENR Texas & Louisiana

UH Graduate College of Social Work 2021 ICE Award, Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Houston (ABC) Excellence in Construction Awards (EIC)

UH Graduate College of Social Work 2021 ULI Development of Distinction Award

SERJobs for Progress 2020 AIA Houston Design Award

HPD Southwest Substation 2020 TPWA Project of the Year Award

Fort Bend County Public Transportation Facility 2017 ULI Development of Distiction Award Finalist

Carnegie Vanguard High School 2014 The American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Silver Award TransportationWellborn Road Grade Separations project.

Houston Museum District Business Alliance

Carnegie Vanguard High School

AIA Colorado Award of Citation

HPD South Gessner Police Station

AIA Denver Award of Merit

HPD South Gessner Police Station

K-12 Best Project Award ENR TX Carnegie Vanguard High School

Land Institute Development of Distinction Award Houston Food Bank

AIA Public Architecture Social Impact Merit Award

Houston Food Bank

Land Institute Distinguished Development

Houston Food Bank

Society of Architects Design Award

2012 Contract Inspiration Award Houston Food Bank

2012 AIA Houston Design Award Houston Food Bank

2011 Texas Society of Architects Design Award Sam Houston Tollway NE Main Plaza

2009 Texas Construction/McGraw Hill Best of 2009 Awards Excellence Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

2009 Greater Houston Preservation Alliance Good Award-Reagan High School

2008 U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator’s Award for Excellence

2005 Texas Society of Architects FIRM AWARD

2005 AIA Houston FIRM OF THE YEAR

2004 AIA Houston Design Award - Architectural Merit METRO Texas Medical Center Transit Facility

2003 Texas Downtown Association - 2003 Awards WINNERS Public Improvement Big City - Cotswold Project Phase I, Houston

2003

Texas Construction/ Mc Graw Hill Best of 2003 Infrastructure George Bush Intercontinental Airport Terminal A/B Parking Garage

2003 Texas Construction/ McGraw Hill Best of 2003Awards of Excellence US 59 Houston Gateway

2003 National Steel Bridge Alliance (NSBA) Prize Bridge Award - US 59 Houston Gateway

2002 Golden Trowel Awards - Honor In Stone Sheltering Arms Senior Services Center

2001 American Consulting Engineers Council Engineering Excellence Award - Cotswold

2000 Community Award - Museum District Business Alliance - Bridges on US59

2000 AIA Houston Design Award - Architecture Honor Design Award - Cotswold 1999 American Planning Association Highest Honor Award - Cotswold

1999 American Planning Association - Highest Honor AwardUniversity of Houston Campus Development Plan

1999 American Planning Association - Highest Honor AwardGreen Ribbon Project

1997 NAHRO Award of Excellence - Cuney Homes

1997 NAHRO Award of Excellence - TSU/HISD Lab School

1995 Hall of Fame - University of Houston Architecture Alumni Outstanding Contributions to Architecture