As the City of Houston pursues a series of initiatives aimed at convincing more of its residents to settle in the downtown core, several corporations have also decided to make the move to more central areas of the sprawling Texan metropolis, while others are consolidating their presence in the financial district by expanding their headquarters. In 2013 the American multinational energy corporation Chevron, which employs several thousands in the Houston area, unveiled their plan for a new tower to be built at the corner of Louisiana and Pease Streets, thus adding 158,000 square metres of office space to the company's downtown campus.

1600 Lousiana, to the left, would be Chevron's third edifice in downtown Houston, image via HOK

Designed by American firm HOK, the new tower is known as 1600 Louisiana in reference to its location along Louisiana Street which is immediately adjacent to Chevron's two existing properties. At 52 storeys and 262 metres in height, it could become Houston's third tallest building if completed by 2018, as currently scheduled. However, the recent economic downturn experienced by the energy sector might significantly delay the completion of the building, which currently plans to start construction in September 2016.

Outdoor common area at 1600 Lousiana, image via HOK

The new tower would also add several amenities intended for the employees working in the complex, including indoor and outdoor common areas on the podium's rooftop, a fitness club, and additional parking at its base. The podium will physically connect with Chevron's tower at 1500 Louisiana Street, further expanding the existing pedestrian plaza along that same street. Similar to the existing towers, 1600 Louisiana will be wrapped in a light-blue glass with aluminum accents to highlight the tower's contours.

Ground level of 1600 Lousiana, image via HOK

While the future of this development remains uncertain, additional images and information can be found in our Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Visit the associated Forum thread where you can post your photos or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.