Renowned Architects to Discuss New Book on Tradition and Modern Design

Curtis & Windham Architects to present "Building on Tradition" at Charleston Library Society event

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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In partnership with Drayton Hall, the Charleston Library Society is hosting an event featuring William Curtis and Russell Windham of the acclaimed architecture firm Curtis & Windham. The event will highlight the duo's newly released compendium "Building on Tradition", which showcases their work translating historical elements into modern living spaces, particularly in Houston's River Oaks neighborhood.

Why it matters

Curtis & Windham Architects are renowned for their ability to seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary design, making them highly sought-after in the industry. This event provides a unique opportunity for the public to learn about their design philosophy and creative process as they present their latest publication.

The details

The event will take place on March 20th from 10:30-11:30am at the Charleston Library Society. Tickets are priced at $10-$15. If unable to attend, copies of "Building on Tradition" can be purchased through Buxton Books. The book is a follow-up to the firm's previous monograph "A Vision of Place", which was published in 2017.

  • The event will take place on March 20, 2026 from 10:30-11:30am.
  • The Charleston Show, of which this event is a precursor, will run from March 19-22, 2026.

The players

William Curtis

A founding co-principal of Curtis & Windham Architects, Curtis began collaborating with partner Russell Windham in 1992 after relocating to Houston. He is a graduate of the University of Texas and has lectured at various architectural schools. Curtis is a founding member of the Texas Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art and received the organization's highest honor, the Arthur Ross Award, in 1999.

Russell Windham

A co-founder of Curtis & Windham Architects along with Bill Curtis. The Houston-based firm has received consecutive Palladio Awards and multiple John Staub Awards. Windham is a graduate of Texas Tech and has served as the President of the Texas Chapter of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art and the Chairman of the Board of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.

Drayton Hall

A historic estate that is partnering with the Charleston Library Society to host the event featuring Curtis & Windham Architects.

Charleston Library Society

The organization hosting the event with Curtis & Windham Architects as a precursor to the upcoming Charleston Show.

The Charleston Show

An annual antique show in its fifth year that features a collection of antiques, contemporary design, fine art, and jewelry. The Thursday evening Preview Party on March 19th benefits the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust.

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What’s next

The Thursday evening Preview Party on March 19th for the Charleston Show will benefit the Drayton Hall Preservation Trust, providing an opportunity to support the collections and preservation of the historic estate, as well as a chance for a first look at the antique show's offerings.

The takeaway

Curtis & Windham Architects have established themselves as leaders in blending traditional and contemporary design, as evidenced by their acclaimed work transforming Houston's River Oaks neighborhood. This event offers a unique chance for the public to learn directly from the firm's principals about their design philosophy and creative process.