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Thompson Lofts Thompson Lofts, a project of Cynthia and George Mitchell and Mitchell Historic Properties, are contemporary, yet classic lofts in this historic 1877 building. Original heart pine floors, soaring 14-ft. wood ceilings, exposed brick, balconies overlooking The Strand and views of Galveston Harbor through energy-efficient insulated 10-ft windows await future residents of the new Thompson Lofts in the heart of The Historic Downtown Strand District. Built in 1877, the first tenant of the building was R.F.George, a wholesale druggist. In 1878, George combined his business with T.C.Thompson and J.J. Schott. The building housed wholesale drugs until the turn of the century. Later it housed a ship chandlery and retail grocery business. In 1992 the building was purchased by George Mitchell. The Thompson renovation is our “Signature Loft” this year, the dream loft that will win your heart. |
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THIS YEAR’S "WORK IN PROGRESS” In 1920 Clark Thompson, the son-in-law of W.L. Moody, Jr., bought out the Fellman Dry Goods Co. and added this building to its existing complex. (The building just east of the Marion House is the 1906 Fellman Dry Goods Co. Building.) The 1920 Marion Building has just undergone a renovation of spectacular dimensions. Additions included another floor for the penthouse loft, balconies, parking and a complete exterior and interior facelift. The Marion building now houses 20 lofts and the completion date is slated for late 2008. This building is being showcased as our “work in progress” this year. It will be open for tours. |
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The Nathan Building Originally built in 1949, this building exemplified the sleek look of late modernistic retail architecture. Its planar front was veneered in limestone slabs and pierced by thin horizontal window slots. The recent renovation of this unoccupied building has been breath-taking. The newly placed “historic brick” is only one of the new pieces of architecture that will catch your attention. The addition of balconies and large windows has given this building character and beauty not seen in the original retail façade. The developer and designer for the Nathan Building have made one of these beautiful lofts their home. Join us as we look inside the walls of one of the newest historic building renovations. |
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The Brownstones The Brownstones on Postoffice Street are a new in-field project that has been built on the edge of Historic Downtown. These six all brick and stone town homes are built in the Federalist style to compliment the surrounding architecture. One homeowner, Mary, is on tour this year. Mary was our “work-in-progress last year as she focused on the eco-friendly building of her home. Step inside her home to see the latest in earth-friendly design, appliances, a/c systems, countertops and cabinets. |
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St. Germain Place This icon of Postoffice Street was built in 1898 by Galveston-born architect, George B. Stowe and originally named the Ikelheimer & Co. Building. The corner tower with its conical cap is a vestige of Victorian picturesque ness. Two beautiful homes at the St. Germain are featured on this Lofts Tour. A woman who finds Galveston is the perfect respite for her stressful life will open her loft home this year. With stress and deadlines awaiting her at work daily, this resident finds living in Downtown Galveston to be her “wellness spring”. Rejuvenating both body and spirit, she finds her gym, good restaurants and coffeehouses all within a short walk. Even though there is night life a block away, she spends her free time reading and enjoying the tranquility of her loft. Her home décor reflects two generations of furnishings; her own Asian influenced décor blends richly with furniture passed down from her father. The second home at St. Germain Place belongs to the owners of galveston.com. Lee and Jim purchased their loft, overlooking the courtyard, after touring it on last year’s Lofts Tour. Their contemporary furnishings, including a baby grand piano, find a unique harmony with the back-drop of the building’s old world charm. Jim and Lee take full advantage of their perfect home location, walking to work, their favorite restaurants and their favorite night-life spots. |
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The Clarke and Courts Building The Strand Lofts, located in the Clarke & Courts Building, is a Nicholas Clayton design. This building was built in 1890 and at the time was the tallest building downtown. The Strand Lofts are featuring two lofts this year. The first loft is located on the fifth floor with its fabulous view of the entire city. Mikel, the owner of the retail and design store, Nests, lives happily there with his partner Michael and their Pomeranian, Nigel. Mikel is a much sought after designer for many of the Galveston and Houston loft projects. And this year, we peek inside his home to see his choices for personal décor. Fun, colorful and eclectic only begins to describe this loft. Let us just say, “Expect the unexpected”. Next is Bob, who has furnished his home with antiques from the wonderful “Big House” Antique store in Downtown Galveston. The warmth of wall tapestries and rich wood accent the loft’s feeling of welcome to friends. A gourmet chef for healthy eating and devout wine enthusiast, Bob can often be found in the kitchen wining and dining his friends with his favorite dishes and tempting them with his best wines. |
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Jackson Square Luxury Loft Condiminiums This architectural treasure was designed by William Ward Watkin, the first professor of architecture at Rice University. The Italian Mediterranean style building offers newly renovated and landscaped luxury loft condominiums and is listed on the Texas Historical Register. In the grand foyer hangs a magnificent chandelier (circa 1923) and an impressive winding marble staircase (grand scale). Amenities include hardwood floors, high ceilings, balconies, large arched French windows, granite counters, new stainless steel appliances, high end cabinetry, pool & hot tub, and beautifully appointed two story courtyard. The model, loft #200 displays this historical gem beautifully. Enjoy the good life. |