The De Santos Gallery serves as a vessel for bringing current photographic works from around the world to Houston. The building responds to the site’s orientation. Natural light is allowed in the building and can be controlled as needed. As the entrance to the gallery is approached, the building begins to reveal its content. This is purposely done to gradually awaken the intellectual curiosity of the visitor.
Once inside, the visitor gets a glimpse of the reflection pool in the sculpture garden. Working space is provided in a private studio on the second floor. The third floor houses a loft and rest area, while the terrace is used for relaxation and outdoor portrait photography. Although display and work spaces are interconnected and opened to each other, the upper two floors can work independently from the gallery allowing both areas to be operated by different tenants.