This week I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Museum of Fine Arts press briefing to preview the new building of the Glassell School of Art that will officially open its doors to the public this Sunday, May 20th.

According to Gary Tinterow, Director of the Museum of Fine Arts, this project intends to create a new must-see destination for the city and I couldn´t agree more.

The new building's splendid and modern architecture, combined with the unique design of the plaza and the spectacular view from the roof garden, will allow visitors to enjoy this harmonious new outdoor space in the city while surrounded by art.

Today I share with you three things you should know about this new outdoor area in the city so you can enjoy an amazing visit.

What you'll find and the exact location:

The new development is divided into three areas:

• Glassell School of Art by Steven Holl Architects

• BBVA Compass Roof Garden by Steven Holl Architects

• The Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza by Deborah Nevins & Associates

The new Glassell School of Art building is located across the street from the Museum of Fine Arts, next to the Cullen Sculpture Garden. The good news is that this project also included a new underground parking lot that you can access from 5101 Montrose Blvd.

Activities to enjoy:

Glassell School of Art

The Glassell School of Art at the MFAH has been committed to the art education of future generations for over 40 years and is the only art school in the United States that is museum-affiliated.

The school offers classes to students ages 3 and up as well as to adults and will begin classes at the new building on June 4th. Their popular summer programs for kids will also be offered at the new building this year, which in conjunction with the museum, provides kids with a full art immersion experience.

The new building's creative energy is contagious thanks to the 36 studios surrounded by large windows allowing in plenty of natural light, the exhibit gallery and the auditorium featuring green accent chairs. And right in the center, the imposing concrete steps represent the building's heart, giving students the perfect common space to socialize and portray their work.

The Brown Foundation, Inc. Plaza

The Brown Foundation, Inc Plaza is located right outside of the new Glassell School of Art building. Built with the intention to be the continuation of the Cullen Sculpture Garden, the plaza offers visitors a fun fountain for kids to play in, shaded areas, and a new amphitheater where you can enjoy music and outdoor shows.

The plaza's rock stars are the spectacular sculptures from two of my favorite artists: Song of Strength by Spanish sculptor Eduardo Chillida and Cloud Column by the Bombay born British sculptor, Anish Kapoor. Both are stunning!

Also, be ready to find the most delicious handcrafted frozen pops in Houston from Popston. Don't forget to try their new Cloud Column frozen pop – it’s delicious! You can follow him on Instagram @popstontx

BBVA Compass Roof Garden

My favorite part of the plaza's design is how it extends up to the Roof Garden thanks to the sloping roofline on one side of the building that makes it possible to walk up the 150 outdoor steps to get to the beautiful terrace.

Thanks to the splendid 360-degree views of the city from the Roof Garden, I'm sure it'll become one of Houston's favorite photo-shoot spots.

The Campus Project completion date:

This is just the first phase of the campus project that is estimated to be completed in 2020; thus, we can still expect to see construction in progress. The second phase will consist of two more buildings as well as improved sidewalks, lighting, public plazas, reflecting pools and gardens.

So now you know. Dare to explore your artistic side by registering for a class at the new Glassell School of art or spend a fun afternoon enjoying this fantastic outdoor space surrounded by art from two grand artists, Eduardo Chillida and Anish Kapoor.

Glassell School of Art