The coveted River Oaks enclave sprung up in Houston in the early 1920s and has, in the century since, become a local landmark and one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods. This timeless residence of some 9,096 square feet is perfectly at home in these environs, a bastion of elegance and enduring classicism.
Houston, Texas | Kellie Geitner, Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty
A sprightly front yard with enchanting colorful landscaping, tall leafy trees, and lush lawn provides a fittingly beguiling introduction. The façade hints at a dedication to tradition with its regal stone path, august columns, tall stately windows, and mansard-inspired roofline. The interiors are spacious and filled with light, beginning in an airy foyer with numerous windows and wide-plank white oak floors in a subtle natural hue. The flow to the living and entertaining spaces is open and effortless, and the overall feel is lofty and voluminous—ideal for gathering with a crowd. The chic living room is a sophisticated space anchored by a distinctive stone fireplace crowned by an antique smoked mirror. Sliding doors of textured glass create privacy in the study or office, which is outfitted with custom built-ins and a brass and glass Hallworth Maven chandelier. The formal dining room is a striking space with eye-catching hand-painted Porter Teleo wallpaper and a dazzling Hermès chandelier. Nearby is a handsome wet bar—a welcome amenity for consummate entertaining—with a beverage chiller, waterfall-edge Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, leather shelving, and abundant additional designer detailing. The adjoining wine room is equipped with uncommon leather “hammocks.”
The relaxed heart of the home, however, is the inviting kitchen and family room, an expansive space with a marble-framed fireplace, stylish built-ins, mirrored walls, and a delightful breakfast nook cleverly tucked into a curtained alcove. Chefs will appreciate the truly superior nature of the kitchen, which boasts prized rare appliances from L’Atelier and Gaggenau, floating shelves and cabinets composed of glass and brass, and a marble-topped island with counter seating. Sliding glass doors open to the idyllic backyard, making indoor-outdoor entertaining a breeze. Alfresco living is equally soigné and comfortable thanks to a summer kitchen with a built-in grill, a refreshing heated and cooled swimming pool, and a dignified brick fireplace.
A glamorous stairway rises to the private quarters on the upper levels, with an elevator providing a quick and convenient alternative. The owner’s suite is a serene space of rest and relaxation, generous in scale and full of light. It is accompanied by dual marble baths—each with a spacious glass-enclosed shower and one with two marble vanities and a soaking tub—as well as a roomy coffee bar with a refrigerator. Each of the three guest bedrooms is uniquely stylish and joined by an en suite bath. Also secluded on this level, the media room is a study in soothing organic green and includes automatic shades and built-in speakers.
On the uppermost floor is a voluminous, versatile game room, two of its walls lined with built-in storage. With its wet bar and en suite bath, it could also easily serve as additional sleeping quarters. Given that the estate enjoys effortless access to fashionable shops, eclectic restaurants, luxurious spas, lively cultural venues, and the Rienzi outpost of Houston’s Museum of Fine Arts, frequent visitors are practically guaranteed.
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