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Kelvin Group

4916 Kelvin Drive
  • Architect
  • Year Built
    1959
  • Building Type
    Commercial
  • Neighborhood
    Rice University
  • Quadrant
    SW
  • Status
    Still With Us

Graphic designer Jim Glass developed this office studio complex in 1959 as a collaborative center for designers and artists.  Known as the Kelvin Group, the concept proved popular, so a second floor was added increasing the studio count to 12, plus an apartment. Shared spaces include a conference room, mail desk, kitchen bar, library, darkroom and photography studio.  Most spaces have north-facing windows and high sloping beamed ceilings. The studios open to a large central courtyard still complete with most of the original landscape elements including a koi pond.