Lunch and Learn: The Art of Terra Cotta and Color
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026 | NOON-1:30 PM
MCFARLAND-MCBEE HOUSE | 3805 RED RIVER STREET
$24 MEMBERS (Partner/$100 annually or $10 monthly +) | $30 FOR OTHERS
Pre-registration is required, and closes at noon on Friday, October 23. Lunch included in registration price; 1 CE learning unit available for AIA and IDCEC professionals. Registration fees are non-refundable, and support our nonprofit's work year-round.
From the Bishop's Palace in Galveston to the UT Austin campus, some of our region's most iconic buildings are adorned with terra cotta clay tile. Ludowici has provided tile for these and countless other distinctive projects, drawing on a history dating back 400 years to the Ludovici family of Rome. Their descendants eventually brought their expertly crafted tiles to the U.S., forming the Ludowici Roofing Tile Company in Chicago in 1893 (and advertising their wares at that year's Chicago World Exposition). Ludowici has been a leader in architectural terra cotta clay tile design and manufacturing ever since.
On October 30, Ludowici presents The Art of Terra Cotta and Color, exploring the unique qualities of this traditional building material, including examples of its use locally, an overview of its manufacturing process, and the natural variation in clay tile plus glazing techniques to achieve desired colors. Participants will learn about the color selection and matching process for historic profiles through case studies comparing the original tiles to the new terra cotta replacements, and have the chance to view samples of this beautiful material in person.
This presentation will interest architects, designers, and homeowners working with projects involving terra cotta tiles, and others interested in learning more about its qualities and use.
Event Details
This event takes place indoors in the JuanRaymon Rubio Community Room. The session includes lunch, provided courtesy of Ludowici, and offers 1 CE learning unit for AIA and IDCEC professionals.
PARKING
Our small parking lot will be closed for this event. Guests are asked to find street parking in the neighborhood, typically available along 38th and 39th Streets on either side of the McFarland-McBee House. Please adhere to public right-of-way parking rules and be respectful of neighbors. Walking, biking, public transit, and ridesharing are always encouraged! The McFarland-McBee House has a bike rack available for use, as well as an ADA parking spot.
Questions? Contact Learning & Engagement Manager Bridget Gayle Ground.