American General Building: AIA 25 Year Award

The Humble Building, former headquarters of the oil company

1200-1206 Nance, a preserved Victorian streetscape

1919 Decatur, the former Tabernacle Baptist Church

2012 Kane, a restored Folk Victorian cottage in the Old Sixth Ward

4610 Oak Ridge, a 1930s bungalow in Norhill

2508 Pelham, a Spanish-style house in River Oaks

Trinity Episcopal Church in Midtown

Villa Serena, the former DePelchin Faith Home at 2700 Albany

Holy Cross Chapel, a restoration of the 905 Main building

The Magnolia, an adaptive reuse of the former Post-Dispatch Building

Al Davis for leadership in preservation in Harris County

Historic Documents Preservation Project of Harris County

Houston Chronicle and Jack Sweeney: Preservation Partner in Print Award

George Strake for commitment to preservation and GHPA

JPMorgan Chase for its stewardship of the former Gulf Building



 


This Spanish-style house, one of the earliest in River Oaks, was restored and enlarged to accommodate modern living while maintaining its charm and historic character. (Photo by Janice E. Ashton) Photo gallery from this project >

Charles Oliver, architect for the River Oaks Corporation, built the Spanish-style house at 2508 Pelham Drive in 1927 for his family. Oliver's unique design was featured in national magazines, but among neighborhood residents, the massive live oak in the front yard is the home's real claim to fame. Generations have memories of climbing among the huge branches.

Despite its pedigree, the house had stood vacant for almost 20 years when the Gallaghers purchased it. The roof and windows leaked resulting in extensive water damage and rot. Working with architect Shelley Homeyer, the Gallaghers set out to enhance the home's original character by planning an addition that would double the size of the house while remaining unobtrusive.

The exterior stucco and clay tile roof were restored. Inside, original wrought iron handrails, door handles and light fixtures were restored, along with the historic tile floors. Rounded fireplaces reminiscent of Mexico were put back in working order in the living room and master bedroom. The Spanish theme was carried throughout with Saltillo tile, unique light fixtures and antique doors.

The Good Brick jury was particularly impressed that the owners recognized a treasure where others saw a tear-down. Greater Houston Preservation Alliance takes great pleasure in presenting this award to Mike and Mary Jane Gallagher.

Photo gallery from this project
Next winner: Trinity Episcopal Church

Project team for 2508 Pelham:
Shelley Homeyer (architect)


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