Preservation Houston’s Good Brick Tour
Introduction to the Tour
Preservation Houston’s 2025 Good Brick Tour is set to kick off on Saturday, November 8, and Sunday, November 9, offering Houstonians a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich architectural heritage. The tour, now in its 12th year, celebrates excellence in historic preservation and gives participants a glimpse into the stories, craftsmanship, and design details of some of Houston’s most treasured places.
The Significance of the Tour
“Preservation Houston’s Good Brick Tour celebrates not only the homes and landmarks themselves, but the stories of the people who care for them,” said Jennifer Kapral, executive director of Preservation Houston. “Each stop on the tour reminds us that preserving our city’s history is an act of community, one that connects Houston’s past, present, and future.” This year, event chairs Pei-Lin Chong and Mariam Hejazi, along with over 150 volunteers, invite the public into four homes that showcase the distinctive styles that contribute to the architectural vernacular of the Bayou City.
Featured Locations
Valenti-Dissen House
The Valenti-Dissen House, located at 1507 Alamo Street in the First Ward, is a Craftsman bungalow built in 1921 by Sicilian immigrant and grocer Jacob Valenti. The house reflects the First Ward’s early diversity and has welcomed a mix of tenants over the decades, including members of Houston’s Greek community. After a careful restoration guided by Grayform Architecture, the home was awarded a 2024 Good Brick Award. Homeowner Pei-Lin Chong notes, “The house was originally a two-bedroom, one-bath home and served as a rental for close to 100 years before I bought it in 2021. I’m actually the first homeowner to ever live here, which makes it even more special.”
William Henry Lighthouse House
The William Henry Lighthouse House, located at 2018 Kane Street in the Old Sixth Ward, is a two-story Classical Revival residence built in 1906 for brick maker William H. Lighthouse. The home features honey-colored brick, stone trim, and a soaring double-height portico. After a one-story addition was made to provide accessible living space, the project was honored with a 2025 Good Brick Award. Homeowner Jason Johnson comments, “The brick interior walls are what make this home truly stand out — strong and full of character. Paired with the historic exterior walls, which are three bricks thick, and thoughtful modern updates, it’s a space I hope visitors appreciate for both its design and its story.”
Anderson Todd House
The Anderson Todd House, located at 9 Shadowlawn in the Museum District, is a steel-framed pavilion designed by architect Anderson Todd for his family in 1961. The house balances privacy and openness through a series of courtyards and light-filled spaces. The steel-framed, brick-and-glass pavilion is organized around a black-walnut-paneled core and features polished terrazzo floors and exposed columns. Homeowner Emily Todd notes, “Our house was a wonderful house for children. There was so little furniture that we could bicycle indoors. It continues to be a wonderful house as an adult, equally comfortable for a quiet dinner or a lively cocktail party.”
Style in Steel Townhomes
The Style in Steel Townhomes, located at 4156, 4158, and 4160 Meyerwood Drive in the Southwest Loop, are three townhomes designed by Wilson, Morris, Crain & Anderson in 1968. The houses debuted at the 1969 National Association of Home Builders’ exposition, showcasing the versatility of steel in residential design. The current owners of the central townhouse undertook a meticulous restoration, reversing years of alterations to reveal the clarity of the original design, and earned a 2024 Good Brick Award. Homeowners Philip and Mandy LeBlanc comment, “My favorite space in the house is the front courtyard, which the entire house is designed around. It’s magical the way light filters in and casts patterns on the walls throughout the day.”
Tickets and Proceeds
Advance tickets for the tour are $25 online through Thursday, November 6, and $30 at the door during the tour weekend. Single-site admission will also be available for $10 per location. The tour will take place from 12-5 pm on both days. Proceeds from the tour will support Preservation Houston’s advocacy and educational programs.
Conclusion
The 2025 Good Brick Tour offers a unique opportunity for Houstonians to explore the city’s rich architectural heritage and learn about the stories and people behind some of its most treasured places. With its diverse range of locations and styles, the tour is a must-attend event for anyone interested in history, architecture, and community. By attending the tour, participants will not only gain a deeper appreciation for Houston’s past but also support the preservation of its historic buildings for future generations.
