lee olvera

Lee Olvera is an Associate Professor of Practice in Architecture. He earned his Bachelor of Environmental Design degree from Texas A+M University and his Master of Architecture degree from the University of Texas at Austin, graduating with distinction - receiving the Henry Adams Certificate for Scholastic Achievement and the American Institute of Architects Scholastic Medal.

 

He teaches thesis level design studio, critical theory and research seminars as well as color theory. He is currently Assistant Dean for Communications and Special Projects, and Faculty Coordinator for the Graduate Research Scholars Program at the School of Architecture.

 

His current research projects include Realm, Images of an Imagined City, a collection of his drawings based on the story-telling structure developed in wordless novels of the 1920’s-1950’s; and Land, a series of drawings that explore landscape imagery as a combination of both analytical botanical drawing and romantic, pictorial vistas.

 

His current teaching focuses on the issues of craft and making as an exploration of the return to the value placed on methods of making, the how and why of designed objects, spaces and buildings.

 

His professional practice centers on the design of arts-related residential projects that investigate the typologies of house and studio, domestic and creative space. Formerly a Design Associate with Frederick Fisher and Partners, he was responsible for the design of a diverse range of projects including the Annenberg Community Beach House, the Annenberg Center and Gardens at the Retreat at Sunnylands, the Cotsen and numerous private houses. In addition to his teaching and research work, he is currently a consulting Design Partner and Art Director at NA+AA in Houston, Texas.