The Humble Building, vacant for years, has been redeveloped as two Marriott hotels and apartments. (Photo by Jim Parsons) Photo gallery from this project >


The south end of Main Street was still a residential area in 1921 when the Humble Oil Company’s new headquarters opened at the corner of Dallas Avenue. The building was expanded in 1936 and 1940, and went through more changes after the oil company moved out in 1962.

The Humble Building had been vacant for a decade when Housing Horizons LLC and Leddy Ventures LP embarked on its $70 million redevelopment. Through a cooperative effort with the City of Houston Department of Planning and Development and the Main Street-Market Square Redevelopment Authority, preservation covenants are in place and this local landmark has been renovated in keeping with national standards.

To preserve the building’s architectural integrity, SpawGlass Construction refurbished original rose marble and granite detailing, brass elevator doors and mail slots, and 80-year-old windows. Parts of the metal cornice were recreated and chemically aged to match the original. The Humble Building now contains 82 apartments and Marriott Residence Inn and Courtyard by Marriott hotels.

The Humble Building is bringing new life to the south end of Main Street while preserving the historic character of downtown Houston. The cooperative effort that made this project possible provides an important example for developers, preservationists and our elected officials.

Photo gallery from this project
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Project team for the Humble Building:
City of Houston Department of Planning and Development
Main Street/Market Square Redevelopment Authority
Veazey (masonry)
Tobin & Rooney Plastering
Sigma Granite and Marble
Listo Drywall
Systems Painters
Spectra Flooring
HBC Engineering (testing)
Way Engineering (HVAC and plumbing)