An evening of architectural brilliance and innovation unfolded at the Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment’s dedication of Richardson Memorial Hall and the Dean’s Advisory Council Awards Gala.

Following a four-year renovation led by Trapolin-Peer Architects and Broadmoor Construction, the historic Richardson Memorial Hall on Tulane’s Uptown campus was ready for architecture students and faculty — and on this night, a party debut. The building, home to the School of Architecture, stands as a symbol of the school’s evolution — from its first courses in 1894 under the Professor William Woodward to its modern programs in Architecture, Historic Preservation, Design, Real Estate Development and Landscape Architecture + Engineering.

The dedication on April 24 drew a distinguished crowd, including Tulane President Michael Fitts, Tulane Architecture Dean Iñaki Alday, donors, faculty, alumni and students.

The celebration continued with the Dean’s Advisory Council Awards Gala, at which architectural luminaries Errol Barron and Robert Ivy, along with civic leaders New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson and former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, were honored for their contributions to design and community.

Blue, white and green balloons — echoing Newcomb-Tulane College colors — adorned the building’s interior where guests also enjoyed dinner from Joel Catering and danced in the Favrot Lobby to Grammy-nominated The Rumble.

Event chair was Eric Aukee with co-chairs David Thompson, Wells Megalli and Jamie Bush.

Fun Fact:
Tulane School of Architecture is now known as the Tulane School of Architecture and Built Environment, reflecting its expanding leadership in interdisciplinary design, research and innovation beyond the foundation of architecture.