2024 EAST MONTROSE HOME TOUR and ART WALK
The East Montrose Civic Association will host its 14th Biennial Home Tour and Art Walk on Saturday, October 26, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. East Montrose, referred to as “the Heart of Houston,” was platted in the early 1900’s – back in the days when Houston’s population numbered fewer than 300,000 and the GH&SA Railway ran down Montrose Blvd.
During the 1960s, East Montrose became a center for the counterculture and hippie communes, and in 1970, the home of Anderson Fair, one of the oldest music venues in continuous operation in the United States. Today a diverse mix of people and architecture, this pedestrian-friendly area exhibits a variety of architectural styles. These houses have original build dates starting in the early 1900s. Tour goers can get a glimpse of how the architecture has been transformed over the years, with results of unique renovations that are characteristic of this distinctive, eclectic neighborhood.
Local restaurants Midtown Bar & Grill, Xiaolong Dumpling, Fusion Eats and Boheme will offer delectable tastings to guests.
615 Welch
Begin your tour at this charming 1910 Craftsman home, where classic architectural beauty meets timeless craftsmanship. From its original woodwork and built-in cabinetry to the inviting front porch, this home captures the essence of early 20th-century design. Period details like transom windows, original pine wood flooring, vintage light fixtures, and stained-glass windows have been lovingly preserved, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this era. The current owners, who acquired the property in 2020, recently added a spacious master bathroom and custom closets, enhancing the home’s functionality while maintaining its historic character. The new bathroom boasts vintage-inspired fixtures and tile work that complement the Craftsman aesthetic. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful design, this Craftsman gem is a standout on the tour, embodying the craftsmanship and elegance of a bygone era.
2020 Crocker
The childhood home of Nell Stewart, who lived there for a century and meticulously documented the neighborhood’s transformation from the early 1900s through the counterculture 70s to today, is undergoing a remarkable restoration. After Nell sold the house in 2021, a young couple, now with a daughter, embarked on the journey of restoring it to its original splendor.
Previously featured as a work-in-progress on our 2022 tour, the renovation has made impressive strides. It serves as a prime example of how historic homes can be thoughtfully preserved and revived. If you’re fascinated by the art of historic home renovation and the stories behind classic properties, this house is a must-see!
609 Welch
A charming residence located in the heart of Houston’s vibrant Montrose neighborhood. Built in 1900, this historic gem has gracefully stood the test of time, embodying over a century of character and elegance. The current owners, who acquired the property in 2021, have thoughtfully renovated key elements of the home, including a stunning staircase and refinished hardwood floors. The residence retains its original 10-foot ceilings, exquisite moldings, and distinctive tin ceilings in the kitchen, seamlessly blending classic details with modern updates.
1909 Taft
An updated version of a classic Houston bungalow, 1909 appears to have been built around 1918-1919. At 1206 square feet, the original house was comprised of 2 public rooms, a kitchen in the back, and two bedrooms that shared a bath. Around 1997, a sunroom/laundry room/bathroom was added to the kitchen. The current owner bought the house in 2000 and performed a do-it-yourself cosmetic interior renovation around 2009. In 2019, a major renovation was undertaken, doubling the size of the house to 3000 sq. feet, creating a modified open plan for the interior public spaces, and adding a perpendicular wing to the back of the house for a primary suite, primary bath, and office. A pool, deck, outdoor shower, and seating area were installed to take advantage of the L-shape of the finished house and the utility easement in the back received a small makeover to provide some green space. A main goal of the renovation was keeping the original bungalow vibe as much as possible while allowing for more modern living.
608 Peden
Nestled in the heart of Montrose, Houston, this charming 1920s home is a true gem. As you approach, you’ll be greeted by a serene fish and turtle pond, adding a touch of tranquility to the front yard. The property is graced by two majestic oak trees, each over a century old, providing ample shade and a sense of timeless beauty. Recently remodeled, the inside of the house boasts a delightful blend of mid-century modern, contemporary, and vintage designs and accents, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. This home perfectly marries historic charm with modern elegance, making it a standout in the neighborhood.
Also visit the working studios of ten local artist studios, all within comfortable strolling distance. You’ll be invited in to the space where artists get their inspiration, and you’ll see where and how their crafts come to life.
- Art League Houston – Exhibitions with Beili Liu and Kathy Vargas
- Cindy Shung – Artist in residence at Anderson Fair – 2007 Grant St
- Joan Son & Kim Renteria – Paper Art, Origami & Glass Art – 904 Welch
- Sylvia Riff & Rebecca Nolen – Abstract Paintings, Watercolors – 903 Welch
- Constance Braden – Books & Drawings – 920 Damon Ct.
- Koelsch Gallery – Boutique Art Gallery – 1020 Peden
- HTX FRAMES – Custom Framing & Gallery – 315 Willard
- Julian Sierra – Paintings – 2117 Stanford
- Bayou Rob – Small Sculptures & Other Oddities – 419 Willard
- Bryan Haworth – Watercolor Paintings – 2107 Morgan
- Ula Vayner – Georgian photography – 111 Fargo, Unit C
Plan to spend the day, browse neighborhood shops, and stay for lunch or dinner at many local restaurants. Also, Anderson Fair, 2007 Grant at Welch, will be open with the opportunity to see inside this iconic music venue.
East Montrose is in the 77006 Zip Code and lies within the boundaries of Montrose, West Gray, Genesee, and Fairview. Drive or bicycle over, and look for the Home Tour signs.
Day-of-Tour tickets are $25 and available only at 615 Welch St during the tour. The Art Walk is free.
Contact: Mary Quinn at 281-630-4487; pastpresident.emca@gmail.com
Previous Tours
