Years ago I fell in love with a street in the heart of Houston that dates back to the early 1900’s and is one of the very few locations in this big city where historic homes have been preserved. These elegant residences were designed by some of the foremost architects of the times…John Staub, Birdsall P. Briscoe, Alfred Finn to name a few…and became home to the then elite of Houston.
Today, the street remains a gracious oasis, a trip back in time. The houses, of course, have been updated to include conveniences suitable for today’s living, but the lovely architectural elements remain intact.
No exception is my friend’s home which she is generously allowing me to share.
From the front door
to every nook and cranny, there are traces of the past.
The incredible stair rail is Victorian dating back to the 1800’s. The home’s original owner had it disassembled from another of his locations for installation here. Its beauty sets the tone for the entire house.
Tall ceilings were characteristic of the era as is the beautiful marble fireplace surround.
Informal sunrooms were common, and this one is a cheerful and inviting space that exemplifies how tastefully color is used throughout the house.
Where neutrals keep tight areas from being too dark, there are surprising splashes of color in upholstery choices.
Though the spacious kitchen has been completely updated, it retains much of its original feel thanks to the style of the appliances and the cabinets.
Touches like the corner cabinet over the sink and the glass front cabinets do their part to add charm.
As in other of the houses on this street, the dining room was designed for entertaining. In this beautifully appointed room, it is easy to imagine elegantly clad men and women arriving by horse drawn carriage for an enchanting evening.
What is wonderful about the home today is that it not only provides glimpses into another time, but it totally reflects the warm character of the people who now live here. I give total kudos to my friend who has so lovingly decorated it, making every decision as to how it should look and feel. For all the years I have known her, she has been collecting unique pieces that are now so at home in their space. She must have known all along where they were waiting to go.
As wonderful as the house is, my favorite space is the carriage house, but that will have to wait for another day. Do come back.
Joining
Lulu's Musings 
Thank you for sharing this beautiful home! Older homes have so much charm and I love the colors that are used in the furniture. The stairs and wood work are amazing!
That Historic neighborhood has such grace, loved seeing it and that beautiful home. So glad you shared it, because I need to go back and take another look!
I love the charm of older neighborhoods and your friend’s home is very beautiful. Wonderful pictures. That stairway and it’s railing are just gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!
Beautiful photographs. Thank you for the tour if these lovely homes
I feel that I have just taken the tour!
I enjoyed the tour of this lovely home. It is beautifully decorated. I like how the owners created such a welcoming, inviting place.
Its warmth is the strength of the house.
Thanks for the tour of this most beautiful historic home….I so love the beautiful architectural elements and how the homeowner retained its beauty yet has made it come to the present….and I can’t wait to see the Carriage house!
Thank you so much for the grand tour! Beautiful, Indeed!
What a magnificent old home. Your photos how it off well.
Linda, I love old streets and homes, impossible to achieve that character in a new dwelling! I so enjoyed the tour of your friend’s beautiful home! Looking forward to the carriage house tour!
Lovely neighborhood, lovely home tour. Such thoughtful touches make a house a home.
What a beautifully decorated house. I would love to have that kitchen!
Have a great week, Linda.
So glad they preserved these homes. Your friend’s home is so so lovely. The details are all so fabulous.
What a beautiful old neighborhood!
This makes think of 46 Main Street an a desire to be back there!
Definitely the two houses have much in common.
Just stunning!!
Very well-done piece. Looking forward to living there!