Legendary Developer Gerald Hines’ Stunning River Oaks Mansion Hits the Market, Carrying a $34.5 Million Asking Price
The Skyline Changer Passed Away in 2020
BY Shelby Hodge // 03.10.21Gerald Hines' 17,000 sq.ft. River Oaks home hits the Houston real estate market for a record $34.5 million. (Photo by Sonya Bertolino)
When Barbara and Gerald D. Hines tapped renowned architect Robert A.M. Stern in the early 1990s to design their lavish home on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, they envisioned a grand Italian style villa for which it appears that little expense was spared. The result was a stunning 17,000 square foot dwelling which they christened Adagio.
The founder of the behemoth international development firm Hines passed away last August at age 95 and on Tuesday the 4.5 acre property at 2920 Lazy Lane went on the market for $34.5 million. That makes it the most expensive house listing in Houston with the closest contenders weighing in at $29.9 million and $29.5 million.
Those who have been fortunate enough to experience the Hines hospitality can attest to the grandeur of the estate with its palace-like interiors and decor fit for royalty. The antique- and art-filled living room, for example, features Venetian plastered walls, an abundance of gilt trim, and columns with Egyptian-inspired pilasters. The study, lavishly paneled in burgundy-stained mahogany, features a leather tile floor. The opulent master bath is a fantasy in white with yards of white drapery and an oversized marble soaking tub.
The two-story 3,000 square foot atrium with swimming pool and fountains was always a point of interest for guests. As with the pool, the tennis court was further evidence of Gerald Hines’ dedication to exercise while the elaborate gardens and terrace reflected Barbara Hines’ appreciation of nature’s beauty.
“When we traveled, what we enjoyed most of all was combining outdoor life with indoor life, as you do in the south of France or Italy,” Barbara Hines tells the Wall Street Journal. “We decided we would do a beautiful patio and combine the best of Italy with the Houston weather.”
The Tuscan-influenced residence has five bedrooms, 11 full baths and one half-bath, a four-car garage, an adjoining guest apartment and an efficiency as well as a separate caretakers residence.
SHOP
The property is listed by Douglas Elliman Texas licensed associates Cathy Cagle and Patricia Reed.
For an even closer look inside the Hines mansion, click thru the photo gallery below:
_md.jpeg)
_md.jpeg)
