A Spanish Colonial-style home recently listed for sale in the Monte Vista Historic District comes with a historical tie to the only example of actual Spanish Colonial residential architecture that remains in Texas.
The residence, recently listed for just shy of $1.3 million, was built in 1924 by architect Harvey Smith, known not just for his design of Brackenridge Park's Sunken Garden Theater but also his restoration of downtown's centuries-old Spanish Governor’s Palace.
Smith built the 3,845-square-foot home for Gerald E. Melliff, then one of the nation's best-known lumber tycoons, according to a 1924 issue of American Lumberman.
The three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath dwelling has received thoughtful updates since then, including vaulted ceilings and an open floor plan kitchen, its property listing shows. The space also brings the outdoors in with a sun room and loggia downstairs and an upstairs sleeping porch.
A library features a wall of built-in bookcases with a mounted desk and an en suite bathroom.
Outside, a spa, fountain, outdoor kitchen area and house-spanning wood deck seem ideal for entertaining. Overnight visitors can stay in the two-story guest house, complete with separate entry and parking.
Lush, flowering plants fill the shaded back and side yards thanks to a full irrigation system that is internet connected and remote controlled, according to the listing. The front yard is xeriscaped with native plants selected to require little maintenance and withstand the Texas heat.
Ornate chandeliers and window furnishings come with the property, and additional furnishings are available for purchase, the listing notes.
This home is listed by Jeanie Travis with Nix Realty Company.
