From The Archives

This historic home was built in 1910 by esteemed architect Charles Page for Fannie Badger Bailey and her husband, Dr. Edward Bailey, next door to her parents’ home (the Walter H. Badger House, 4112 Speedway). The Craftsman architecture of this home resembles the building style begun by architects Greene & Greene of Pasadena, California during the Arts and Crafts era in the early 1900s. Their influence on architect Charles Page is seen in the form of the building with its broad porches, series of gable roofs, deep projecting eaves with exposed rafter tails and porte cochere. The home exemplifies the Craftsman ideal in its use of local materials such as the river rocks on the chimneys and porch columns, the structural timberwork and the interior long leaf wood paneling, beams and flooring. Open porches, casement windows and warm natural shades of green and brown harmonize with the outdoor landscape. The Bailey-Houston House was designated a City of Austin Historic Landmark in 1987 and has been beautifully restored by the current owners/architect.

Located on an oversized lot, this one-story bungalow features spacious formal living and dining rooms with long leaf pine paneling and exposed beams, original built-in bookcases, a river rock fireplace (non-functioning, coal burning) and both oak hardwood and pine floors. The enlarged kitchen has stainless steel countertops, a tile backsplash, and an original built-in cupboard. The large master suite at the front of the home includes another river rock fireplace, a charming enclosed sleeping porch and a fabulous private bath with original blue and white tile work and fixtures, bathtub and separate shower. Three additional bedrooms and a full bath are located at the rear of the home. This flexible floor plan can be adapted for many uses. A detached guest cottage overlooking the garden was recently built which includes a full kitchen and bath. Native landscaping, tall shady pecan trees and a stone wall surround the property.