Historic 1890s Heights Bungalow Reimagined For 21st Century Living — Your First Look at $1.05 Million Houston House Gem
The Best of Both Worlds
BY Shelby Hodge // 05.18.22Lush gardens and decking await 717 East 21st Street in The Heights. This is no ordinary Heights bungalow. (Photo by TK Images)
I am in love with this historic Heights dwelling, circa 1890, that is oozing with modern day comfort and sensibility. Thanks to the design savvy of Kinneymorrow Architects, the bungalow at 717 East 21st Street was transformed and expanded in 2016 with three gracefully interconnected pods based on the footprint of the original house.
Embracing elements of two disparate eras, the 2,487-square-foot house combines old style clapboard siding with contemporary polished cement floors and original shiplap wood ceilings with a 20-foot Western Windows sliding glass door. The result is a compelling blend of historic and modern with the accent on clean line styling.
The open floor plan where the living area, dining and kitchen flow from one to the other bespeaks of a modern lifestyle while the shiplap front porch with turquoise rocking chairs remind of my great-grandmother’s house.
Within each of the three pods Kinneymorrow created a loft by raising the ceiling to the roof line. Each loft is accessed by ladder. The cozy spaces provide private getaways that can serve as a home office, additional storage or perhaps escape from that snoring bed partner.
The primary bedroom features an ensuite bath and polished cement flooring while original hardwood floors and ceilings have been preserved in the two secondary bedrooms.

A Heights Bungalow That Treasures the Outdoors
Interestingly, the front and side yards at 717 East 21st Street are covered in white limestone gravel, graced with planters brimming with herbs, florals and even olive trees. The juxtaposition of the pristine gravel with the lush greenery of the backyard creates a nicely defined landscape program. Expansive decking and cafe umbrellas provide outdoor entertaining areas that complement the spacious back porch which opens from the main living area.
This Heights home brings indoor and outdoor living at its very best.
This charming (can you say that if it is also contemporary?) home hit the Houston market Wednesday morning with a list price of $1.05 million. Compass’ Caroline Schlemmer has this Heights bungalow listing.
For a closer look at 717 East 21st Street, click thru the photo gallery below.