Gazing up at this towering structure, have you ever considered the story of the Kinder Morgan Building? This building stands at 1001 Louisiana Street. It dominates downtown Houston. Let’s delve into its past and present.
The Kinder Morgan Building is not just another skyscraper. It is a 502-foot tall office building. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, it first opened in 1965. Initially, it was known as the Tenneco Building. The Tennessee Gas Transmission Company built it as their Houston headquarters.
Edward C. Bassett, from Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, designed the building. His Bauhaus style made it the first modern skyscraper in Houston. It even surpassed the ornate Neils Esperson building in height.
Notice how all four sides of the Kinder Morgan Building are exposed to the sun. Downtown Houston’s diagonal street grid causes this. To combat heat and glare, the windows are recessed. This design feature is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
For many years, the letters T-E-N-N-E-C-O graced the top of the building. This was during Tenneco’s ownership. However, El Paso Corporation purchased Tenneco in 1996. They removed the letters. A long stock ticker was installed to add visual appeal.
In 2012, Kinder Morgan acquired El Paso Corporation. They moved their headquarters here in 2013. Thus, the building became the Kinder Morgan Building.
Between 2008 and 2012, the building underwent a complete renovation. The main lobby was relocated to Level 1. Entrances were added on Louisiana Street and Travis Street. Level 2 now houses conference rooms. Office spaces occupy levels 3 through 29. Executive offices are located on levels 30, 31, and 32.
The Kinder Morgan Building boasts 1,144,000 square feet of Class A office space. It connects to the downtown tunnel system. Numerous Metro bus stops are conveniently located nearby.
Inside, you will find tunnel retail options. These include Which Wich, District 7, and Blackwater Coffee Roasters. There is also The Health Club at Travis Place. Interior artwork from the Glassell School at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston adorns the lobby.
The Kinder Morgan Building also features efficient floor plans. Sprinklers in each office space are controlled by a remote fire command station. This gives firefighters control over various fire, security, and HVAC points. A 24/7 manned security detail ensures safety. Perimeter and internal surveillance are maintained by remote control cameras and intercoms.
From many floors, you can enjoy spectacular views of downtown Houston. The Kinder Morgan Building provides convenient access to major thoroughfares. These include I-45, I-10, State Hwy 59, Allen Parkway, and Memorial Drive.
Building services operate Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The building is closed on major holidays. These holidays include New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day. It also closes on Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
The Kinder Morgan Building stands as a testament to Houston’s architectural evolution. Its history reflects corporate changes. Its design balances aesthetics with functionality. As you continue your tour, remember the Kinder Morgan Building. It is a significant landmark in Houston’s skyline.