The Iconic Bell Tower of Houston: A Study in Architectural History

In the vibrant Montrose neighborhood of Houston, Texas, a world-class art museum stands out as a beacon of cultural significance - The Menil Collection. As an aficionado of documentary photography, Leonid Furmansky has spent countless hours capturing the essence of urban landscapes and architectural masterpieces. Among his many subjects is the enigmatic Bell Tower at 800 Bell Street.

Located in the heart of downtown Houston, this 44-story skyscraper has been an ongoing fascination for Furmansky due to its unique design and rich history. Built by Welton Becket and Associates, Golemon & Rolfe Associates, and George Pierce-Abel B., the tower was originally designed as the Humble Building for ExxonMobil in the early 1950s.

Over the years, the building has undergone various transformations, including a rebranding effort that introduced an inverted surface along its edges and top, evoking the crown of Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza. Despite these changes, the tower's angular profile remains iconic, with deep shades protecting the interior offices from the intense Houston sun.

Furmansky's photographs capture the building's intricate details, from its imposing façade to its dramatic angles. His work has been featured in renowned publications such as the New York Times, Divisare, Texas Architect, Dwell, and ArchDaily.

As a photographer driven to document structures that represent the way we live, Furmansky sees the Bell Tower as an important piece of Houston's architectural history. The tower's evolution over the years serves as a testament to the city's growth and development.

The building's current owner, Shorenstein Properties, has plans to redevelop its 1,300,000 rentable square feet, promising modern amenities and a reworked subterranean level. While these changes may alter the tower's appearance, they cannot diminish its significance as a landmark in Houston's urban landscape.

For Furmansky, the Bell Tower represents a study in architectural history, with its unique design and fascinating transformations making it an enduring subject of fascination. As he continues to document the city's structures, this iconic bell tower remains a beacon of artistic expression and cultural significance.

Bell tower houston