USA
HH the Aga Khan and Houston Mayor John Whitmire open Ismaili Center, Houston as new cultural and architectural landmark for USA: November 6th, In a landmark moment for Houston’s cultural landscape, Mayor John Whitmire formally inaugurated the Ismaili Center, Houston. His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the Imam of the global Shia Ismaili Muslim community, attended the ceremony alongside civic, cultural and international community leaders. Designed to foster dialogue, culture and shared human values, the Center becomes the nation’s first Ismaili civic and cultural complex.
Located on an 11-acre site overlooking Buffalo Bayou Park, the Center marks a major milestone for both the Ismaili community and the city of Houston. The design integrates architectural excellence with expansive landscape architecture, offering a serene environment that welcomes both Ismaili congregants and the wider public. In addition, the Center will host public programs, community events and collaborative initiatives that strengthen civic engagement.
Prominently positioned at Allen Parkway and Montrose Boulevard, the Center fulfills a long-envisioned plan by the late His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. The project, which began with the land purchase in 2006, came to life under the leadership of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V.
The complex features over nine acres of gardens, courtyards, tree-lined promenades and reflective water elements. A grand fountain marks the main entry, while the luminous five-storey structure serves as a serene civic sanctuary rooted in the Ismaili ethos of harmony among people, place and nature.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V highlighted the Center’s inclusive mission: “This building may be called an Ismaili Center, but it is not here for Ismailis only. It is for all Houstonians to use; a place open to all who seek knowledge, reflection and dialogue.”
Designed by acclaimed architect Farshid Moussavi and landscape architect Thomas Woltz, the 150,000-square-foot Center becomes the seventh of its kind worldwide. Project partners, including AKT II, DLR Group and McCarthy, collaborated closely to ensure a unified and high-craft execution.
The Center is poised to support Houston’s nonprofit and cultural sectors, offering spaces for lectures, performances, community gatherings and educational programs. Welcome events for local partners and neighbors are scheduled for December 12 and 13.
As Houston continues to rise as a cultural capital of the American South, the Ismaili Center, Houston adds a defining new layer to that reputation. It stands among renowned neighbors such as The Menil Collection, Rothko Chapel, Asia Society Texas, the Cistern and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Furthermore, it elevates the city’s legacy of embracing art, culture and global dialogue.
Mayor Whitmire praised its significance, saying, “The Ismaili Center truly reflects the best of Houston’s spirit: our diversity, our compassion and our commitment to community.”
More than a place of worship or art, the Center symbolizes openness. It invites communities to converge, learn from one another and celebrate shared values. Ultimately, it offers a space where people can imagine a more connected and compassionate world.
Globally, Ismaili Centers promote pluralism, intellectual engagement and shared humanity. The Houston Center continues this tradition with programming in education, arts, music, performance and intercultural dialogue. Visitors will find exhibitions, a black box theatre, function rooms, a café, classrooms and a Jamatkhana forming the spiritual heart of the complex—supported largely by volunteers.
