COTE DE TEXAS: The West University Home Tour - 2011

The West University Home Tour - 2011

+After being on hiatus for several years, the West University Home Tour is finally back!   The 2011 tour, benefiting the West University Elementary School and chaired by Holly Cauble and co chaired by Carlin Morstead, is this Sunday, May 1, from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm.  House stalkers take note: seven of West U’s most interesting houses will be open to the public.   This is one of the better tours in Houston since the houses are chosen because they are wonderfully decorated as opposed to being just the biggest or the newest house in the neighborhood.  Most houses this year are either  owned by interior designers – or were decorated by one of Houston’s premier designers.    I’m partial to the West U Home Tour because I live here and have attended it many times.   One year the tour was particularly costly for me.  After going through a beautiful Kurt Aichler house that had all white slipcovers, I came back home and of course, hated my fabrics.   The following day, I sent all my upholstery out to be covered in white linen slipcovers too – and I’ve never looked back.     I know I’m not the only one who takes inspiration from this tour – just listen to what the people next to you are saying!  

As you might imagine,  I was thrilled when Holly asked me to take pictures of all the houses – it was like giving me a free pass for major house stalking!!    Today, I’m just going to show one room from each house – sort of a teaser to get you motivated to come out this Sunday.  After the tour is over, several of the homeowners are allowing me to show their entire house for those readers who don’t live in Houston.    Enjoy!!

 

 

1.  Sally and Mark Wheat – 2642 Tangley.

 

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The first house is no stranger to Cote de Texas readers.   Ever since I first showcased this house, Sally’s kitchen has inspired countless kitchen remodelings.   The first time I went to Sally’s house it was all Belgian and French inspired with lots of gray and linen.  I was slightly amazed to see how much the house has changed since then.  Sally has completely redecorated her downstairs, using such mid century iconic pieces such as Milo Baughman dining room chairs and a Serge Mouille inspired lighting fixture in the living room.   The changes are striking and so fresh for today.  The only room that remains unchanged is her famous gray kitchen!!

 

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Yes, this is Sally Wheat’s newly decorated living room.   David Hicks fabric covers two Parson styled chairs and a Serge Mouille light fixture replaces a table lamp.  I’m crazy over the art work of Queen Elizabeth – it really sets the tone for the entire house.  If you are inspired by Sally’s kitchen – now is your chance to see it live and in person!!

 

 

2. Linda and Bob Walker – 2931 Albans

 

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The Walker’s house stunning steel window and front door set this stucco house apart and hint at the sophisticated design that is inside.   The house is filled with a lifetime collection of antique furniture and accessories.  Flowing from the front door is a center hall that runs throughout the house and ends at the spacious family room.  A large garden that doubles as an outside room lets light flow throughout the first level.   The breakfast room sits in a window filled space that becomes part of the garden.  It is across from the totally remodeled kitchen.  Linda’s sister Ann Andrews helped with the interiors.  My favorite room is the dining room which doubles as the library.   This multipurpose space has floor to ceiling bookcases which create a welcoming atmosphere.    The house has great ideas for empty nesters to incorporate into their own home.

 

 

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The family room in greens and blues is an eclectic mix of antiques and contemporary pieces.   The gorgeous fireplace is 18th century French and the rug is 21st century Jonathan Adler.

 

 

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A Rose Tarlow print covers the sofa in the second seating area of the elegant family room.  I really loved this house – it’s so elegant and pretty and bright!

 

 

3.  Mary Jane and Mike Gallagher – 2631 Barbara Lane.

 

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The Gallagher’s ivy clad house is an original to this street, built in the 1930s.   The house is filled with beautiful antique furniture and large, oversized accessories that become focal points.   Mary Jane is an interior designer and she favors a sparse European look in lieu of the English cluttered look.  The rooms flow together visually and aesthetically.   Though the house is quite stunning on its own,  it’s the newly built guest house casita in the back yard that steals the show and is worth the price of admission!  Designed by Houston great, Kurt Aichler, the casita features a dramatic, two story dining room which overlooks the gardens and the main house.  I have a feeling that everyone is going to rush home to see if they can build a casita like this in their own backyard!  Not to be missed!!

 

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Mary Jane’s living room is sparingly furnished – she lets the accessories, like the oversized concrete statue, take center stage.   A study in browns and white, this color scheme runs throughout the downstairs and even into the casita.  I am in LOVE with that painting!!!

 

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I just love this house.  Here, is the other side of the living room.  I soooo wish I could show you the casita too!   It’s fabulous!!

 

 

 

4.  Mary Lynn and Dave Mannon- 2708 Pemberton

 

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This house is located on the one of the prettiest boulevards in West University, a reminder of a more gracious time when large houses were built on estate sized lots.  The Mannon’s house was totally restored by architect Kirby Mears, while designer Eleanor Cummings has created its magazine-worthy interiors.   It’s colors are in soothing grays and creams which act as a backdrop to a beautiful collection of antiques.  Despite its graciousness, the house is a family home to four young children and reaffirms that kids and antiques can co-inhabit.   This house is creating a lot of buzz as no pre-tour pictures are available.   I’m so sorry there aren’t interior pictures, but everyone has told me this house is a knock-out.

 

 

 

5.  Margaret Ann and Chad McEver – 3928 Marlowe St.

 

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Margaret Ann, interior designer, and her husband Chad bought this 1992 rather typical West U house and turned it into something quite special.   She added a front entry hall where there was none and put in a steel front door that completely updates the façade for the new century.   The kitchen was totally remodeled as was the master bathroom.   The house is decorated with touches of Mid Century modern mixed in with European antiques.  I loved touring this house and looking at all the touches McEver has added.   Everywhere you turn, there are ideas to take home to update a house.   Margaret is a great talent – she’s young, but her portfolio is already incredible.

 

 

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Margaret installed this steel door and placed antique wood doors inside for privacy, when needed.  These steel doors makes such a huge difference to the exterior and interior both.  They are stunning!

 

 

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The living room is a nod to Hollywood glam.  Filled with contemporary art work and a collection of chairs from different eras, it sets the tone for the rest of the house.   Bring a pad to write down all the ideas you could incorporate if you are looking to update a builder’s West U home from the 90s.  This house is filled with them!

 

 

6.  Laurie and John Pearson – 3415 Albans

 

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The Pearson's house, located on a double lot, is the largest house on the tour.  Laurie, an interior designer, moved here with her husband and children from New Orleans after the devastation of Katrina.   Today, they are completely settled into their new life in West University.    The front door opens to a two story entry with a gracious winding staircase.   The public rooms are dressy with luscious silk taffeta curtains and an array of beautiful fabrics.    The spacious house has a nice spread-out feel to it, something that is quite rare for the typical town sized lots in West. U.   The remodeled family room and kitchen, done in a deep taupe,  overlooks a southern styled screened in porch and swimming pool.   The master bedroom is especially beautiful in all cream and ivory with hints of celadon.    The house is wonderfully decorated with an amazing attention to detail, there is so much to see here and admire.

 

 

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The living room, though dressy, is inviting and warm.   Laurie has an unerring eye for detail – note the sofa with its scalloped trim and nailheads.  The curtains are luscious silk taffeta.  Here, and throughout the house, color is found in contemporary art work and in the area rug.

 

 

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Looking at the other side of the living room, a piano sits in an attached niche.  Everything is so beautiful – there is elegance everywhere your eye falls. 

 

 

7.  Heidi Dugan – 2735 Arbuckle Street

 

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Popular Houston real estate agent Heidi Dugan wanted her new stucco house to have a decidedly Provencal atmosphere.  Judging from the façade alone, Heidi got the French inspired look she wanted.  Interior Designer Ginger Barber used authentic architectural elements such as antique lanterns and shutters, wood beams, and European floors to create this European aesthetic.    The interiors are beautifully furnished with an array of casually slipcovered linens mixed with elegant antique furniture and accessories.   The standout is the back yard by Thompson Hanson with its limestone fountain, swimming pool and dining area.   This becomes an extra room and will, no doubt, be a favorite on the tour.   

 

 

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  I couldn’t decide which room to show you from Heidi’s house – each one is prettier than the next.  But – her dining room is especially beautiful with its crystal chandelier and trumeau.  I love the fabric on the chairs and all the gilt!  Soooo gorgeous.  You are going to love, love, love this house!!!! 

 

I hope you have enjoyed seeing a glimpse of all the houses.  I am just dying to show you all the rooms!   Each house is prettier than the next and each has so many ideas to take home with you!   Look here in the coming weeks for more pictures of these houses.  If you are in Houston, be sure to attend this Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm.  

 

$25 advance tickets are available at Rice Epicurean Markets Information Desk, Antiques & Interiors on Dunlavy, ABEJAS and the West University Elementary School office.

Tickets will be sold at all seven homes on the day of the tour for $30.

For more information, contact:  hollycauble@yahoo.com or carlinmorstead@yahoo.com

 

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  And finally, in other words, I just got word today, that fellow blogger Brooke Giannetti and her husband, architect Steve Giannetti’s book “Patina Style” is now available for pre-orders.  I feel so proud, like a mother hen!  Brooke’s blog Velvet and Linen is one of my personal favorite – a go to each time she posts.  Her lifestyle is so beautiful – her houses are gorgeous, her children are adorable and their business is successful.  But of course!  The two of them, Brooke and Steve, are such a talented pair.  If you want to preorder Patina Style, just click on the picture which will take to the Amazon web site.   Wow.  If the cover is any indication of what the book is going to look like…  I mean, what a gorgeous cover!!

 

To preorder, click below on the written “patina style” to the right of the picture:

 

42 comments :

  1. I'm so excited to see the rest of these homes! If I lived in Houston, I would be there in a heartbeat. This neighborhood reminds me so much of Highland Park where I grew up.

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  2. Wish I could be in Houston this weekend! Will look forward to more pictures!

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  3. If only plane tickets were not so expensive! I seriously might be tempted to fly down just to see these incredible homes. Can't wait to see more pictures.

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  4. Joni - What is your email address? I can't seem to find on your site. Thanks!

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  5. I think flying to see these homes would be a very exciting time- I can't think of a better way to spend the day-but I will live the experience through you! They all look gorgeous! I can't wait to see the rest of your photos!!

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  6. OMG - I SO wish I could jump on a plane and come to Houston for this tour!! So looking forward to the posts to follow.

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  7. Lovely houses! Can't wait to see the rest of the pictures.

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  8. That was so not nice Joni!! Teasing us like that! I couldn't wait I had to google Margaret Ann McEver. I found pictures of her house but I still can't wait to see the pictures you took. I'm hoping she's one who agreed to let you show their entire house!

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  9. One, you're MEAN! I want to see more please!!! I'm totally upset I can't be on this tour and I want to know one thing....what kind of neighborhood do you live in???? I can't wait to see more!

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  10. Wow, now this is a house tour. Wish I could join you.

    Today I am blogging about the San Francisco Decorator Showcase that opens Saturday. Only, one house, well mansion, but holy cow the designers did an amazing job. Not to mention the priceless views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

    xo,
    cristin

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  11. So many show houses right now, Kips Bay in New York, the San Francisco Show House and in Houston, wish I could do the grand tour!

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  12. Gosh Joni;
    So wish I were in Houston to see these little pretties!
    I will have to live through you on this tour!
    Thanks:)
    L.

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  13. I think I need to move to Houston!
    I hope you are going to show more pictures after the tour...
    Joni, thank you so so much for sharing our book with your very loyal readers. I think of you more as a sister hen than a mother hen! And since I now own hens, I know what I'm talking about LOL!
    Seriously Joni, you have been a wonderful friend from the start. I (we!) can't thank you enough.

    xo xo
    Brooke

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  14. Wished I lived in Houston (or close by). These houses are beyond fabulous! Can hardly wait until you post with more photos!

    Karen T.

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  15. Joni, I so enjoyed this! As you know, I grew up in Houston...just off of Memorial Drive. West University was always my most favorite neighborhood. Your pictures took me back and made me want to come for a visit! So inspiring and beautiful! Thank you so much for enhancing my Friday morning!

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  16. got my tickets! thanks for the preview...maybe I'll see you there! hosting a brunch for friends before we all go to the tour; the Wheats home is first on our list!

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  17. Looking forward to a stream of your blog post with all the interiors. 2708 Pemberton peaks my interest the most, can't wait!

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  18. Oh, I LOVE house tours! If I could live in Houston for just one day, it would be this Sunday!

    I'll be waiting anxiously for your future posts on this tour.

    House #6 . . . what a dream!

    Jennifer

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  19. This was my cup of coffee this morning! I can't wait to see the interiors! Thanks Joni!

    Sue

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  20. Yay Joni- thanks for the sneak peek!! I just can't wait to see Heidi's home.

    I pre-ordered Brooke's book right when she posted about it and am excited to see it in a few months.
    Happy Friday to you!
    T

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  21. I can't wait to see the rest of these homes ! Don't make us wait too long... please ! Thanks for the tip about Brooke's book, got mine ordered !

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  22. Joni I am just amazed at these gorgeous homes! The works of art in each are outstanding!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

    Last few days to Come and enter my very Fashionable Giveaway from the French Basketeer!

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  23. I wish Virginia wasn't so far from Houston-I'd love to tour the homes. I can't wait to see your pictures.
    Lisa

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  24. Joni I can't wait to see more! They certainly picked the perfect person for the job.... You tease you! I wish your house was featured on the tour, but then I suppose you wouldn't be able to photograph everybody else's *winks*

    I'm sorry but I could just cry over Sally Wheats house! Am I the only one? I really loved it before *sniffle sniffle* OK sorry bout the Debbie downer business (and insulting any possible Debbies *winks*) but I really was taken aback.

    I really loved the juxtaposition of the old weathered doors behind the steel ones at the McEver house.

    And I have a feeling I'll want everything AND the house at Heidi Dugans! Love that dining room! So beautiful!

    Also can't wait for Brooke and Steve's book! Isn't that cover dreamy?! Vanna

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  25. Joni,

    Thanks so much for the heads up on the Houston Tour....wouldn't miss it...driving in from Baton Rouge for a weekend of "sweet inspiration" from the gorgeous houses you've tantalized us with! New to blogging and throughly enjoying yours!

    Mairlyn

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  26. There is something about the Margaret Ann home that has me coming back for a second look. The steel entry door and warm wooden interior privacy doors, I've not seen anything quite like it. I love seeing all of the artwork in the homes as well. This would be so fun to see in person.

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  27. Oh, to be able to get to this tour!!!! What a dream! Thank you so much for these pics BUT, I am DYING to see the rest!!!! I will be on pins and needles waiting:):) XO, Pinky

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  28. Wow! I am loving some of these homes... that dining room chandelier in Heidi's house is really spectacular... definitely my favorite!
    Can't wait to see more!

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  29. The suspense is killing me Joni! I can't wait to hear how it went today. Honestly your readers are going to start flying in for this event! I think you should host a tour. ;-))))))

    xo

    Jennifer

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  30. I toured these homes this weekend and all are lovely. The house with interiors by Eleanor Cummings was such a stand out. You can really tell when a master's hand has been through a space. It had such subtle sophistication. Great tour!

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  31. Can not wait to see your pics you too!! It was such a great tour!! But the Pemberton house stole the show in my opinion!!! I even had dreams about that house last night!!!
    I thought I saw you yesterday in one of the houses but was not sure- we you wearing a cute Lilly Pulitzer top with white pants?

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  32. Spectacular choices!
    Absolutely love both Laurie Anne and the Pearson's homes--great blend of old, quirky, new and traditional. Love the Meredith Pardue paintings that the Pearson's have in the house. I'm a big fan of her work :)

    Wish I could attend!

    Andrea

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  33. Oops, Margaret Anne :)

    Lovely, lovely, lovely.

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  34. I agree with Amanda-- the Pemberton House was absolutely fabulous. Could have moved in tomorrow.
    Sure hope you are able to post images of that house!
    All the world should see it. So tasteful and serene.

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  35. Oh my gosh! House #6 is to-die-for gorgeous!! Awesome!
    Wish I could go!

    Katie Flynn
    Acreativeinterior.com

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  36. Joni,

    So beautiful! This post is stunning!

    Now, I'm also so excited about Brooke's and Steve's Book! It will be amazing!

    Have a Happy Day!

    xo

    Luciane at HomeBunch.com

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  37. The living room in Mary Jane's house is to die for! The zebra rug is stunning. So lovely and inviting.

    Can't wait to see the other houses.

    Genevieve

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  38. Please, thank the homeowners for all of us! A great big Merci beaucoup to you too, Joni!
    -linda,ny

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  39. Wow, Joni! Beautiful home. Can't wait to see more!
    Teresa
    xoxo

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  40. Nice blog that is i like the cycle tour because its totally depend to you that how much beauty are you created in this tour you can stay every where you want new york to knoxville also must visit this site and buy online tickets to the bus tour...

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