Under the oak canopies, over the streets of Houston, there is a jewel.
On my way to a run the other night, I was astounded by an architectural wonder. The lighting, the collaboration of styles, and the poise was amazing. To an architecture buff and student I thought it a mirage; an oasis in the desert of urban tract development.
The doorway is showcased as the "Piece De Resistance", which is highlighted by two flood lights. With only basic lighting, the doorway juxtaposes the rest of the house, which acts as a rose colored brick backdrop from which this gem shines (The base of the doorway is the same color as the house).
Classic Ionic columns set inside of a Federal frame with Doric style columns says Ancient Greece. The six panel traditional door, is set under a classic transom that in this picture lies in the shadows along with two sidelights set aside the beautiful muted hue jade green door. The transom mimics the shape of the semicircular arch in the pre-vestibule framework, that emphasizes the symmetry of this entrance, a staple of Greek ingenuity.
Let us call it a Greek Revival. Plato, Socrates, Zeus, and Athena would all be made proud by this stunning reproduction. It was clearly thought out, executed perfectly, and makes a seamless fit within the surrounding neighborhood. Not only is it architecturally philosophical, but it is also a good neighbor, and we can call that southern hospitality. This makes one wonder, where are the architects that designed this, and why do they not enlighten Houston with this magnificent ideal that they have for classical architecture.
