Preservation Houston

Home
United States
Houston, TX
Preservation Houston

Preservation Houston is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Houston's irreplaceable architectural and cultural heritage.
(1)

05/28/2026

The Garden Oaks Theater has been named to Preservation Texas' 2026 list of Texas’ Most Endangered Places following a nomination submitted by Preservation Houston.

We’re proud to see this Houston landmark recognized alongside other significant sites across the state, including Dallas City Hall, Barton Springs Bridge, Stone Fort Museum, the Old English Field Terminal, and Simon Peter Hawkins House.

Originally opened in 1947, the Garden Oaks Theater remains an important neighborhood landmark and gathering space for many Houstonians.

While the property was sold in 2025, strong community advocacy efforts led by Arthouse Houston have emerged in support of preserving and adaptively reusing the theater, including thousands of petition signatures and widespread public support.

This recognition brings statewide attention to the importance of protecting the places that shape our communities and tell Texas’ story.

Learn more about Preservation Texas’ 2026 list of Texas’ Most Endangered Places: https://www.preservationtexas.org/mep2026

05/22/2026

Where Houston gathers! 🍽️ Some places become part of the rhythm of the city.

From longtime favorites like Treebeards Restaurant and Christie's Seafood & Steaks Restaurant to El Patio, these restaurants have been the backdrop for celebrations, traditions, and everyday moments.

The kind of places that feel like Houston.

Discover the full inaugural list of Houston Legacy Restaurants: preservationhouston.org/restaurants

05/21/2026

There’s still time to experience Signs of the City: Framing Houston’s Roadside Landmarks, a photography exhibition by Molly Block that captures the details many of us pass by every day! 📸

From neon signs to hand-lettered façades, these images highlight the craftsmanship, history, and character that shape Houston’s commercial landscape.

A reminder that preservation can start with simply noticing.

📍 On view at Preservation Houston’s office through June 30
To visit, please reach out to schedule an appointment.

05/20/2026

Our winners series continues! We’re proud to recognize Jen and Vinod Pathrose for their thoughtful addition to a 1920 bungalow in Cherryhurst.

This imaginative project redefines what preservation can look like — seamlessly linking old and new through a light-filled conservatory that connects the original home to a contemporary two-story addition. While the design introduces bold elements of color, landscape, and form, it remains respectfully understated from the street, preserving the character of the historic bungalow.

Fun Fact: The sculptural stair railing was inspired by cut paper art and fabricated using CNC technology, repeating a geometric floral pattern found throughout the home.

Projects like this show how preservation can honor the past while making room for creativity and change. To see the complete list of 2026 Good Brick Award winners, please visit: preservationhouston.org/awards

05/15/2026

Houston’s food scene is shaped by the stories of the people who built it 🌎

From Kiran's to Abdallah’s Lebanese Cafe and Cafe Piquet Cuban Cuisine to Merida Restaurant, these restaurants reflect generations of culture, tradition, and resilience.

More than meals, these are stories and recipes passed down, shared, and preserved.

Explore the full inaugural list of Houston Legacy Restaurants: https://www.preservationhouston.org/restaurants

05/13/2026

Our winners series continues!

River Oaks Theatre is being recognized for its thoughtful rehabilitation, bringing Houston’s oldest historic suburban movie theater back to life while honoring its Streamline Moderne design and cinematic legacy. Built in 1939, the is one of the last remaining historic cinemas in Houston still operating as a theater, even as many of its peers have been lost or adapted for other uses.

The recent restoration carefully repaired and restored character-defining features, from the iconic boomerang marquee and neon signage to terrazzo flooring, porcelain enamel panels, and interior details designed by artist Buck Winn Jr. Modern systems and accessibility improvements were sensitively integrated, ensuring the theatre can continue welcoming audiences for generations to come.

Reopened to the public in 2024 and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, River Oaks Theatre once again serves as a vibrant cultural anchor, screening independent and classic films and hosting live performances, just as it was intended more than 80 years ago.

To see the complete list of 2026 Good Brick Award winners, please visit: preservationhouston.org/awards.

05/11/2026

Preservation Houston’s 2026 Member Reception & Meeting is almost here! An evening to connect, reflect, and celebrate preservation in one of Houston’s most meaningful historic spaces.

Located in the heart of the , the DeLuxe Theater is a powerful example of restoration and community investment. Join fellow members for drinks, light bites, and conversation, followed by updates on PH’s work and special remarks on the theater and the neighborhood it anchors.

Free for PH + Pier & Beam members
Tuesday, May 19 | 6–8 PM
DeLuxe Theater (3303 Lyons Avenue)
🔗 RSVP today: https://bit.ly/4enZRmU

05/08/2026

Houston classics, no debate! 🍔

These are the burger spots that have stood the test of time. From neighborhood staples like Lankford’s and Stanton’s City Bites to longtime favorites like Cream Burger, Bubba’s Texas Burger Shack and Champ Burger, these are the places that define Houston’s burger scene.

The kind of spots where one visit turns into a tradition.

See the full inaugural list of Houston Legacy Restaurants: https://www.preservationhouston.org/restaurants

05/07/2026

During this special open house in Houston’s Near Northside, longtime owners Esther and Hugo Cantu Sr. welcomed guests inside and shared what has made this home so meaningful over the past 20+ years.

From its historic details to the memories created within its walls, their hope is simple: that the next owners will care for it, appreciate it, and continue its story for years to come.

Moments like this remind us that preservation isn’t just about buildings. It’s about the people who live in them, the stories they hold, and the care passed from one generation to the next.

As we celebrate , we’re reminded that protecting historic places starts with connection, stewardship, and community.

05/04/2026

Come get your steps in with us! Join Preservation Houston for our upcoming Walking Tours & Architecture Walks, where we explore the stories, design, and history that shape the city we share.

Upcoming Tours:
• May 17 — Avondale Architecture Walk
• June 14 — Market Square Architecture Walk

Led by knowledgeable guides, each tour offers a deeper look at Houston’s built environment, from historic neighborhoods to the evolving downtown skyline.

Space is limited. Learn more and register at preservationhouston.org/calendar

Address

3907 Main Street
Houston, TX
7709877002

Telephone

+17135103990

Website

http://linkin.bio/preservationhouston

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Preservation Houston posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Preservation Houston:

Shortcuts

Want your organization to be the top-listed Non Profit Organization in Houston?