From a modern urban oasis to a vintage-inspired retreat, all aspects of city life are on display in the Downtown Houston Home Tour, presented by the Houston Downtown Management District. Set for Saturday, March 30, it showcases individual homes in five Downtown properties, redefining what it means to live in the city core.
Forget the concept of tiny apartments in uninspiring high-rises. The spaces on display here vibrate with personality, energy and the joyful je ne sais quoi that is Houston.
All visitors must begin their exploration of these stunning enclaves by checking in at Heritage Texas Properties in the W.L. Foley Building at 214 Travis St. For those who don’t wish to walk from home to home, Greenlink, a circulator operated by the Downtown District with METRO, will provide free transportation between participating properties.
On the itinerary are 500 Crawford, Bayou Lofts, Block 334, Catalyst, St. Germain, and the W.L. Foley Building. Giving just a taste of what visitors can expect, at Bayou Lofts, they can check out the impeccable style of Ruth and Jack Elvig, who’ve blended pieces of the past with 21st century amenities to create a space that’s personal, welcoming and timeless. A grandfather clock stands against their home’s exposed brick walls, hand hardwood floors help enhance the personality of their bold decorating, which features touches such as a tiger-striped settee, oriental rugs, plush leather ottomans, and a charming wooden rocking chair.
Over at Catalyst lies the sleek, urban style that defines the home of Keith Alkek and Rachel Meidl. Bright whites and grays, accented with pops of black run throughout the home, accented by light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. The pair have earthy touches like wood vases and bowls placed on surfaces throughout the home, and leather, fabric, and metal furniture give the space a slick, contemporary vibe.
Dan Tidwell and Jamie Mize’s home in the Foley building shows off the pair’s love of art, with whimsical, colorful paintings throughout.
Ticket holders can enjoy special offers all weekend long at area bars and restaurants including Birraporetti’s Downtown, Bovine & Barley, Craft Beer Cellar, Coterie, Dean’s Downtown, House of Blues Restaurant & Bar, Houston Watch Company, Kanaloa, La Calle, La Fisheria, The Lake House, Local Foods Downtown, and Xochi.
Parking is available for $5 at One Market Square Garage at 800 Preston St. Tour attendees must pick up a voucher at Heritage Texas Properties to receive the preferred rate. Additional garage and lot options can be found at www.downtownhoustonparking.org.
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The Downtown Houston Home Tour runs Saturday, March 30, from 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 on the day of the tour, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County. For details and updates, see Live Downtown Houston or Visit Downtown Houston's Facebook page.
Cozy confines at Block 334.
