Houston Mod recognizes and celebrates William F. Cody and his Texas connection with a presentation by the authors of a new book that chronicles his career.

Of the architects who made Palm Springs a crucible of midcentury American modernism, William F. Cody (1916-1978) was one of the most prolific, diverse, and iconic. Directing a practice ranging from residences to commercial centers and industrial complexes to master plans, Cody's designs are so recognizable that they provide a visual shorthand for what is widely hailed as "Desert Modern."

This richly illustrated monograph, Master of the Midcentury: The Architecture of William F. Cody, which brings together photographs, original renderings and drawings of extant and now-lost structures, will be available for purchase. The co-authors of the authoritative new resource will discuss his life and work. Cody's Texas connection will also be discussed.

Co-Authors

Catherine Cody is the third daughter of William Cody. In 2006, she became steward of her father's papers. Her background is in residential building and design. 

Jo Lauria is a curator, writer and educator who received her curatorial training at Los Angeles County Musuem of Art. She is a specialist in the fields of design, craft, and decorative arts, with particular emphasis on objects and environments that define the California lifestyle and culture.

Don Choi, PhD, is an architectural historian and a professor at California Polytechnic State University, where he teaches courses in architectural history and theory. He has a connection to Houston, as his MArch is from Rice University.

Joining the co-authors will be David Bucek, FAIA, of Stern and Bucek Architects. He serves on the boards of Houston Mod and Architecture Center Houston Foundation. He is the Chair of the Houston Archeological and Historical Commission. 

Please note new date November 9, 2022
Doors open at 6:00 pm, lecture begins at 6:30
Reception & book signing to follow 

Tickets available through matchouston.org

Free admission when a new Houston Mod membership is purchased through Match (Docomomo US membership can be added on for $45)

$10 for members of Docomomo US, Houston Mod, AIA Houston Historic Resources Committee, and Preservation Houston

$15 non-members

This event is co-sponsored by Houston Mod, Docomomo US, AIA Houston Historic Resources Committee, and Preservation Houston.