Farewell To A Brutalist Icon: The Demolition Of Farish Hall And The Rise Of UH's Centennial Plaza

The Stephen Power Farish Hall, a staple of the University of Houston (UH) campus for over five decades, is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation, marking the end of an era for the College of Education. As of late 2025 and into the current date of December 15, 2025, the demolition of this iconic Brutalist structure is in full swing, paving the way for the ambitious $35 million Centennial Plaza project that promises to reshape the heart of the university.

This major development is more than just a building removal; it’s a pivotal moment in UH’s history, symbolizing a shift from the mid-century architectural style to a modern, pedestrian-focused campus core. The removal of Farish Hall, which has served as the academic home for countless educators, counselors, and researchers, is a necessary step in realizing the university’s long-term vision for enhanced student life and campus connectivity.

The End of an Era: Farish Hall's History, Architecture, and Demolition Timeline

Stephen P. Farish Hall was completed and first opened its doors around 1970, becoming the dedicated home for the University of Houston's College of Education. For over 50 years, the building was central to the lives of students and faculty focused on educational leadership, psychology, and curriculum development.

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A Controversial Architectural Legacy

The building itself was a prominent example of Brutalist architecture, a style characterized by its massive, monolithic, and unadorned concrete forms. While divisive—often described as imposing or uninviting—this architectural style is now recognized as a significant part of the campus’s mid-century design history. The raw concrete exterior of Farish Hall stood in stark contrast to newer, more modern buildings, making its presence on the Cullen Family Plaza area unmistakable.

• Building Name: Stephen Power Farish Hall
• Primary Occupant: University of Houston College of Education
• Year Completed: Circa 1970
• Architectural Style: Brutalist
• Demolition Start Date: Monday, November 24, 2025
• Expected Demolition Completion: January 15, 2026
• Future Use of Site: Centennial Plaza (Greenspace)

The Demolition and Relocation

The decision to demolish Farish Hall was made after a study concluded that a significant re-investment in the aging structure was not sensible, given its position and the university's evolving campus plan. The demolition, which commenced in late November 2025, is a key component of the Centennial Construction Project, a massive undertaking designed to transform the campus core.

Prior to the start of demolition, the College of Education was successfully relocated. The college's offices, including those for the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, were moved to McElhinney Hall. Classes, however, are now held throughout various other university buildings, ensuring minimal disruption to academic operations.

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The Future Takes Shape: Introducing the Centennial Plaza Project

The space vacated by the demolition of Stephen P. Farish Hall is not destined to remain empty. It is the centerpiece of the $35 million Centennial Plaza initiative, a significant campus transformation project. This initiative is designed to create a vibrant, green, and modern central hub for the UH community, enhancing the overall student experience.

Key Components of the Centennial Project

The Centennial Construction Project encompasses several major developments beyond the creation of the Centennial Plaza itself. These developments are aimed at improving infrastructure, student housing, and campus aesthetics, aligning with the university's growth trajectory as one of the largest institutions in Texas.

• Centennial Plaza: This new greenspace will replace Farish Hall, offering meeting areas, planting, and open spaces for students to gather and relax. It will serve as a pedestrian-friendly core, greatly improving the visual appeal and functionality of the main campus area.
• Centennial Hall (New Residential Building): A new residential building is planned as part of the project, which will be named Centennial Hall. This addition will significantly boost on-campus housing capacity, addressing the needs of a rapidly growing student body.
• Dining Commons: A new Dining Commons facility is included in the plans, set to provide modern and expanded culinary options for students, faculty, and staff.
• University Drive Expansion: The overall project also includes the expansion and modification of University Drive, a key thoroughfare, to improve traffic flow and campus accessibility.

The College of Education's home, though initially planned to be replaced with a new dedicated building, has seen a shift in strategy. While the demolition proceeds to make way for the plaza, the university has backtracked on immediate plans for a direct replacement building, opting instead for the strategic dispersal of departments and classes across the campus, with offices centralized in McElhinney Hall.

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The Legacy and Nostalgia of Stephen P. Farish Hall

For decades, Farish Hall was more than just a concrete structure; it was a place of learning, community, and memory for thousands of University of Houston alumni. The news of its demolition has been met with mixed reactions, highlighting the deep-rooted connection many have to the building.

Alumni Memories and Mixed Reactions

Alumni and former students recall the building with a sense of nostalgia, sharing fond memories of classes, study sessions, and even unique events held within its walls. The Brutalist architecture, while often criticized, was a constant backdrop to their academic careers, making the building a memorable landmark. Some view the demolition as a necessary and positive modernization, while others mourn the loss of a historic and architecturally significant structure.

The transition is being overseen by leaders like Dean Robert H. McPherson, Ph.D., who guides the College of Education through this period of significant change. The focus remains on maintaining the college's high standards and strong academic programs while adapting to the new campus layout. The College of Education is now leveraging spaces across the university, ensuring that the legacy of excellence established in Farish Hall continues in its new, decentralized locations.

The completion of the Centennial Plaza and the associated construction projects will fundamentally change the University of Houston’s landscape. As the dust settles from the Farish Hall demolition, a new green heart will emerge, promising a more connected, modern, and aesthetically pleasing campus environment for the next generation of Cougars.