Historically Significant Architectural Gems on the Market Now in Houston

Maybe it took the unbridled explosions of McMansions and characterless new construction in no-zone H-Town for us to appreciate the historically significant homes found in Houston. Rich in history and tradition, these architectural gems hearken back to a time when quality and craftsmanship were king, and a few of these iconic homes are on the market now … for a price.

Jeanne Marosis with John Daugherty, REALTORS just listed this fabulous River Oaks home (designed by famed architect Howard Barnstone) at 2930 Lazy Lane for an asking price of $19.5 million dollars. When it was first constructed in 1962, the original owners (entrepreneur-financier John Maher and wife Lois) shocked their neighbor, “First Lady of Texas” Ima Hogg, when a few trees were felled to make way for construction.
Renowned architect Howard Barnstone and business partner Eugene Aubrey set out to design a modern home at 2930 Lazy Lane that was later described as “an aristocrat’s tree house.” The steel and glass living room/dining room is dramatic and seems to almost be suspended among the trees, open on three sides by glass walls.
The spectacular glass-walled living room at 2930 Lazy Lane overlooks the landscaped north and east sides of the property, and has been the focus of many architectural and other published articles.
The library at 2930 Lazy Lane featured stained raised cherry wood paneling, a sculptured granite wood-burning fireplace and floor-to-ceiling book and display shelves.
Even the sophisticated guest house cottage at 2930 Lazy Lane is a stunner and overlooks a picturesque ravine. The property was sold in 1987 to oil company president Mary Ralph Lowe, who oversaw the building of this guest house, tucked into a corner incline near the huge circular drive.
In 2006 the state-of-the-art garage was completed at 2930 Lazy Lane. Richard and Ginni Mithoff acquired the 11,676-square-foot estate in 1996 and called on Bute-King Architects to add modern touches while still preserving Barnstone’s genius.
Mature landscaping takes center stage along the grounds of 2930 Lazy Lane. The topography slopes down to the bayou and is fortified by a wall of bagged cement that has long since turned to stone.
The spacious master bedroom at 2930 Lazy Lane is almost entirely made of glass. Adjacent is the 31-foot long master bath with plantation shuttered windows.
The downstairs family room at 2930 Lazy Lane is handsomely paneled with a large built-in entertainment area.
As a focal point for the front of the 2930 Lazy Lane property, the Mithoffs commissioned award-winning American sculptor Jesus Moroles to create a museum-worthy megalithic sculptural fountain. It consists of four 16.5-foot granite towers, each weighing 10,500 pounds, lending serenity and beauty to the entrance.
Blake Hillegeist of Blake Hillegeist Real Estate recently listed this John F. Staub-designed English country home at 1324 South Boulevard for $5.399 million dollars. Built in 1925, this magnificent four bedroom mansion is located in the exclusive Broadacres neighborhood.
Architect John F. Staub designed many traditionally-styled mansions in Houston between the 1920s and 1960s. His homes were noted for their attention to detail, like this magnificent property at 1324 South Boulevard. The property is located in a City of Houston historic district or has been designated a historic landmark.
In addition to designing this home at 1324 South Boulevard, architect John F. Staub also designed Bayou Bend, the 1927 mansion built for “First Lady of Texas” Ima Hogg and later donated to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in 1966.
Although built in 1925, the property at 1324 South Boulevard has been wonderfully updated with granite counter tops, a stainless steel commercial refrigerator, built in Wolf steamer and a five-burner Diva induction range.
The entry foyer at 1324 South Boulevard showcases the dramatic octagonal main stair tower.
The architectural history of this John F. Staub-designed home at 1324 South Boulevard is preserved throughout, including with the original tile flooring in this Jack and Jill bathroom between bedrooms three and four.
The 24-foot by 19-foot master bedroom at 1324 South Boulevard features a barrel plaster ceiling, original oak wood flooring (circa 1925) and windows made from century old oak that look out upon the tree tops on this mature estate.
Those who follow the designs of John F. Staub will recognize the architecture in his signature dividing screen. Significant architectural details like this have been preserved throughout this home at 1324 South Boulevard.
Nancy Almodovar with Nan and Company Properties Christie’s International Real Estate recently listed this elegant Tudor in the River Oaks area at 9 West Lane for $7.999 million dollars. This magnificent home was constructed in 1932 and includes more than 50,000 square feet of lot space in Tall Timbers.
This resort-style property at 9 West Lane features high ceilings, plenty of natural lighting, and gleaming hardwood floors.
The resort-style property at 9 West Lane offers a country club lifestyle that includes a pool, a tennis court and a putt putt golf course.
Build in 1932, this magnificent River Oaks home at 9 West Lane features a patio and deck, outdoor kitchen, outdoor fireplace and fenced back yard.
The back yard at 9 West Lane includes a private tennis court.
A third story loft at 9 West Lane features a full gym and sauna.
The 30 foot by 30 foot living room at 9 West Lane is open concept with plenty of space for rest and relaxation.
Leigh Turner with Greenwood King Properties (Kirby Office) recently listed this classic Hiram Salisbury home on a half-acre lot at 3642 Inverness in River Oaks for $5.295 million dollars. Built in 1950 in a traditional Georgian style, the home offers more than 8,800 square feet of living space.
The study at 3642 Inverness is lined with wood paneling and includes media built-ins and a gas fireplace.
The updated kitchen at 3642 Inverness features Wolf, SubZero and Thermador appliances.
The magnificent entrance to the great room at 3642 Inverness offers access to the kitchen, wet bar and library.
The property at 3642 Inverness has five full and two half baths, including this stunning master bathroom.
The Georgian-style home at 3642 Inverness features an oversized three-car garage.
This deck just off the great room makes for a serene place to relax at 3642 Inverness.
The back yard at 3642 Inverness is large enough for upgrades, including a possible swimming pool.
This magnificent great room at 3642 Inverness includes mahogany columns, a tray ceiling outlined in mahogany molding, and polished concrete floors.