University of Houston Central Plant

The project added three new 2,500-ton chillers and replaced four existing cooling towers with high-efficiency 5,000-ton ceramic cooling towers. An additional 5,000-ton tower was included to handle the new capacity. The expansion also introduced 3,000 square feet of administrative office space, topped with rooftop photovoltaics to support university sustainability goals.

Rather than conceal the facility, the design team chose to highlight its educational potential. The plant’s new addition, constructed with aluminum and glass, offers full visibility into the system’s inner workings and is prominently located near the library and a new pedestrian plaza.

The cooling towers are housed in masonry-clad concrete structures that match surrounding architecture. Their open sides allow falling water to produce a visible and audible rain effect, enhancing the site’s public presence while maintaining performance and transparency.