HSLBA Home Tour 2015

Click Here to Order Tickets On-Line

April 11-12, 2015  (Noon - 5:00 PM)

Tour of homes in the Clear Lake Area

The Houston Symphony League Bay Area’s 14th Annual Day by the Bay Home Tour is Saturday and Sunday, April 11-12 from noon-5PM both days. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the doors of the homes. A pre tour party will be held on Friday, April 10 with tickets at $75/person—ticket includes pre tour party and all the homes. There are seven homes on the tour.

Two of the homes are historic: Windemere, the stately magnificent red brick English Tudor mansion that lies almost hidden by trees between the Hilton Hotel and Bal Harbour tennis courts is house #1. While not furnished, its structure is reminiscent of the times in which it was built in the 1929-30’s. It has beautiful stained glass windows, a grand entry, incredible woodwork, and a solarium. It is like many water-facing homes— front to back. Bay Area Museum is also historic and has one of only three Texas Historic Markers. The structure has original wood-slat floors in the chapel and Fletcher Hall, and memorabilia from rice farming to the space age. Both of these properties are available for events.

Two homes in Seabrook are contemporary homes on waterfronts. Filled with windows for views of the bay, they also have decks and patios for outdoor living. One has the unique features of a wildlife sanctuary salt pond and a copper-ionized pool that needs no chemicals or salt. A leisurely stroll on the grounds is an escape from the stress of everyday.

Three homes are in Brook Forest and are unusual renovations. They are filled with heirlooms, art collections, ecletic styles, glass/ceramic collections, antiques, leaded-glass windows, and one is a nature lover’s home with wildlife out the window. The landscaped patios and pools are “escapes” for indulging, even in Houston heat!



 

Pre-tour Party Home (16410 Brook Forest, Houston)

A pre-tour party will kick-off the home tour on Friday, April 10 (6:30 PM - 8:30 PM). Tickets are $75 per person, which includes the tour.

Tickets for the tour are $15/$20 at the door for viewing all seven structures.  They may be purchased on-line and may be purchased from:

  Arlan's (4614 NASA Rd. 1, Seabrook)
  Casanova's downfall (4630 NASA Pkwy., Seabrook)
  Adelaide's (14870 Space Center Blvd., Houston)
  Nassau Postal (957 E. NASA Pkwy., Houston)
  Mediterraneo Market and Café (18033 Upper Bay Rd., Nassau Bay)
  Vintage Revival (18073 Upper Bay Rd., Nassau Bay)
  Unexpected Interiors (613 E. Main St., League City)
  Bon Appetit (18027 Point Lookout Dr., Nassau Bay)
  Upper Bay Frame (2450 E. Main St., Ste. D, League City)

 

 

Tour Homes

  

#1 Windemere (123 Lakeside Ln, Houston): A well-kept secret in the area due to its almost hidden location behind trees between the Hilton Hotel and Bal Harbour tennis courts, the 1929-30’s mansion was built by the chief engineer of Hughes Tool, who became the Vice President and General Manager. Windemere has survived many hurricanes and has much that is still original because the Bal Harbour Association has kept it in time. The stained glass windows, grand entry wall and stairway, and plaster ceilings relate back to the same era as the West Mansion, and the woodwork may have been done by the same skilled craftsmen. It is used for special events now and is well worth the time to see this beautiful home.

#2 Bay Area Museum (5000 NASA Road, Pasadena): “The Little White Church” at the back of Clear Lake Park is a small museum that chronicles the unique history of the area from rice farming to the space age. The structure bears one of three Texas Historic Markers and was the oldest building in Webster. Originally, the Webster Presbyterian Church was constructed in 1900 by volunteers after the great Galveston hurricane when the original church was destroyed. The church was moved from Webster in two pieces in 1981. Most of it is original and has been faithfully restored. It has a chapel and Fletcher Hall, and can be rented for special events. A project of the Lunar Rendezvous, the church and grounds are meticulously maintained. Photographers use the grounds as a setting for photo shoots. Plaques and entry tiles recognize the contribution of Bay Area residents to restore and maintain this property.

#3 Seabrook (502 E Meyer, Seabrook): A custom-built home much like the owners’ previous home in Kemah. Built on Galveston Bay, it has views that remind them of their favorite pastime—sailing on their sailboat. The home is made of easy-care materials though incorporating beautiful hardwood floors and elegant touches, like a Murphy bed and a special Quilt room. One might call the home a contemporary “beach elegance”. The decks offer an expansive view of the bay, yet the owners can walk to their small dock and head out to sea again.
 
 

#4 Seabrook (4710 Hamblen Ct, Seabrook): Unique features that few homeowners can enjoy—a private beach, views of Galveston Bay from almost every room, a wildlife sanctuary salt pond, a copper-ionized pool that needs no chemicals or salt. The home has many windows, balconies, and decks for all to enjoy the views. One homeowner is a retired Naval officer and this home reflects his love of ships and submarines. Home is multi-level due to many additions since its original construction in 1972.

#5 Brook Forest (16310 Brook Forest, Houston): A sophisticated renovation that might be called “Cosmopolitan Chic”. Owners are nature lovers and have a “never will be interrupted” view of the bayou where they enjoy watching the wildlife. One homeowner, in the fashion industry, mixes styles and materials in her own style—and it works throughout the home to make it truly one of a kind. Multiple renovations and updates reflect combining his and her tastes to make an elegant, yet very comfortable home. Recently, four small bedrooms were converted into a huge closet and dressing room and a lady’s salon where Tia Mia jewelry is created.

#6 Brook Forest (15706 Craighurst Dr, Houston): Built in 1978, current owners have continually updated it since they purchased it. The style is New Orleans French and relies on one of the homeowner’s eye for details as in gathering family pieces and combining them with various collections. The living area opens out onto a beautifully landscaped patio and pool area that is even “Houston year round”. The leaded glass windows and traditional items add that New Orleans French feel.

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#7 Brook Forest (15719 Falmouth, Houston): The home is filled with pieces bought at auction in Houston and brought from travels. An art collection is exceptional with several paintings, drawings from the 16th century, and sculpture. The master bedroom and bath are extravagant, and the bath door opens to the pool area, which is perfect for privacy and parties. There’s an oasis feel to the backyard, though the home is surrounded on three sides. Owners are DIY’ers and have redone the kitchen and other parts of the home.