When my husband, David, and I sold our little bungalow in the Heights to raise our kids in the suburbs, I made him promise that one day we’d move back inside the Loop. We both grew up in Houston and have always loved the energy of city life – the restaurants, culture, and constant hum. Years later, with our youngest in high school, David kept that promise, and we found the perfect property near Rice Village to build what would become our dream home.
Starting from Scratch
The existing house on the lot had to come down, but rather than doing a standard demolition, we partnered with Habitat for Humanity to deconstruct it. This allowed materials to be reused, which felt like the right way to begin, a sustainable choice that also gave something back to the community.
Designing For How We Live
Because city lots can be tight, we knew every inch had to work hard. I collaborated closely with architectural designer Chris Wyrick of Wyrick Residential Design and builder Brian Silver of BAS Concepts to create a home that felt spacious, light-filled, and connected. One of our earliest decisions was to skip a breakfast nook and instead open the kitchen to a large covered veranda. Expansive sliding doors blur the line between indoors and out, making the space ideal for Houston’s climate and for entertaining family and friends.
Inside, unlacquered brass accents and vivid quartzite countertops set the tone for the home’s palette of blues, greens, and warm neutrals. Natural limestone floors add texture and warmth, while custom millwork and tailored drapery bring refinement without feeling formal. Our primary suite serves as a true retreat, complete with a steam shower, air-jetted tub, and hand-painted cabinetry that still make me smile every day.
Recognition and Gratitude
This home was such a labor of love, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see it recognized this year. It received two ASID Ruby Awards (Large New Construction and Dining Room), an Honorable Mention in the PaperCity Design Awards for the kitchen, and was a finalist in the GHBA Prism Awards for Front Elevation, Kitchen, and Bath.
It’s always special when others appreciate the work that goes into creating something so personal. But for us, the greatest reward is getting to live in a space that reflects who we are and how we love to gather, with open doors, good food, and people we care about close by.
