Introduction to a Legendary Home
Some houses in Houston are icons, while others are absolute legends. The historic River Oaks mansion at 4019 Inverness Drive is one such legend. Completed in 1959, this house has been dubbed LEGEND, and with good reason. It is a metaphor for a Houston that has mostly vanished, with its intertwined architectural and ancestral provenance dating back to the early 20th century.
A Rich History
The house was designed for the Howe-Briscoe family by Birdsall Parmenas Briscoe, FAIA. The original owner, Dorothy Virginia Trone Howe, was the widow of Knox Briscoe Howe, Briscoe’s cousin, who shared his Briscoe-Harris lineage. Today, decades later, the house is looking for its next owner. Listed for $15 million, this expansive 8,443-square-foot River Oaks manse boasts six bedrooms, seven full baths, and three half baths.
Restoration and Renovation
In 2021, Suzanne Duin-Stewart, founder and owner of Maison Maison Design, and her husband Michael Stewart fell in love with 4019 Inverness Drive. They underwent a masterful four-year restoration of the house, which was completed in 2025. The restoration preserved the original flooring, doors, millwork, sash windows, and more, while also refreshing the formal living spaces and adding a gourmet kitchen, temperature-controlled wine cellar, and office nook.
Features and Amenities
The house features beautifully designed bluestone patios, a summer kitchen, and a three-car garage that was rebuilt to house a ground-floor exercise room and half-bath. The guest quarters include two en-suite bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a living/dining area. The amenities, features, and finish-outs are endless, making this house a rare gem in the heart of River Oaks.
Preserving History
Preservation was key when it came to restoring this important piece of Houston history. Duin-Stewart’s goal was to fully restore the home while being mindful of preserving as many original features as possible. She paid respect to the original homeowner, Dorothy Knox Houghton, and ensured that there is something in every room that serves as a tribute to her and the history of LEGEND.
A New Chapter
Purchasing 4019 Inverness is more than just buying a beautiful River Oaks home; it’s the rare opportunity to be part of Houston’s rich history and heritage. Duin-Stewart is now ready to pass on the legacy of LEGEND to its next owner, allowing them to pick up where the Howe/Houghton and Duin/Stewart families left off. As she prepares to move on to her next project, she reflects on the experience of restoring LEGEND, saying, "It is hard to leave LEGEND, but this has always been my passion — restoring homes."
Conclusion
The LEGEND house at 4019 Inverness Drive is a true Houston landmark, offering a unique chance to own a piece of the city’s history. With its stunning architecture, beautifully restored features, and rich heritage, this house is a rare find in the heart of River Oaks. As the house looks for its next owner, it is clear that LEGEND will continue to be a symbol of Houston’s legendary past, while also embracing its future.
