Houston House and Home - Index

Houston House and Home - houstonhouseandhome - Index

The kitchen on the second floor in the heart of the home has to be highly functional. “I probably have at least two dinner parties a month,” says
Sandy. Cabinets extend to the ceiling for extra storage. The gas range came in handy when electricity was out after Hurricane Ike. The decorative
light fixture of Mexican tin lights was made by Zocalo, a Heights shop that moved to San Miguel de Allende.
houses. The screened porch is stabilized with X-braces made of thick aircraft
cable to brace for lateral wind loads. “Nothing moved in this
house,” Sandy says. “It was solid as a rock.”
She and Dave did lose electricity for about a week after Ike. They were
able to stay relatively comfortable because breezes from the screened
porch and cross-ventilation through the loft kept them cool without the
menace of bugs or mosquitoes. They were able to cook meals on the
kitchen’s gas stove.
Not only do the environmental features serve the Steitzes well, the loft,
as other homes The ODD Group builds, takes into consideration longterm
family and cultural needs. It includes an elevator for those with limited
mobility. Downstairs, a separate living suite with mini kitchen and
full bathroom can serve either as living quarters for extended family
members or as office space.
“This house is perfect for us,” Sandy says. After nine houses, she won’t
be moving again, she says. “This is it.”
RIGHT: A handmade rocking horse that Sandy has owned for years
takes on an iconic presence in the bar area. On collecting folk art, she
says, “I have always loved unique, different pieces that aren’t expensive.”
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