john staub

River Oaks, Estate of the Day

Filed under: Estates

As commenter Spectacular Bid pointed out last year on a different home, architect John Staub was one of the top architects for wealthy families in Dallas and Houston in the early to mid 20th century. Today's home in the River Oaks area of Houston shows off a bit of Staub's appeal. This home was designed by the Houston architect in 1933. Staub reversed the front and rear elevations to insure private arrivals. The home has a Tudor/Jacobean style but manages to avoid the slightly Disneyfied appearance that some Tudor aspirants can get. A two-story addition was done by architect P.M. Frost in the 1970s, expanding the interior space while keeping the home's street-side facade.

The reception parlor features carved golden oak wood paneling reportedly rescued by a New Orleans antiquities dealer and re-assembled here. A sky-painted ceiling with cherubs completes the Napoleonic theme. The original entry foyer was designed by Staub and has a wrought iron balustrade and banister. The living room with its bay window alcove and plaster moldings is also a Staub creation. The master bedroom has a fireplace with carved marble mantel and surround. The media room which could also serve as a guest suite has a ceiling-mounted retractable projection screen and projector and a built-in kitchenette with beverage fridge. The grounds include a croquet court, koi pond, sculpted shrubs and marble statuary well positioned in graceful courtyard spaces. This elegant home is listed at $9.5 million with Martha Turner Properties.

Gallery: River Oaks