One of only a handful of spec homes designed by prominent Houston architect Birdsall Briscoe, this 1931 home has been owned by a number of notable Houstonians, including the late Jack Valenti, a former special assistant to President Johnson and the longtime president of the Motion Picture Association of America.

The 4,427-square-foot home has been carefully remodeled and enlarged over the years to suit today’s preferences without destroying its original charm. A front enclosure with electronic gates

provides privacy in the River Oaks neighborhood setting.

An addition to the home created a large master bedroom suite on the main floor and a three-room guest apartment above. After additions to the original three-bedroom floor plan with separate nanny quarters, the home now offers five bedrooms and 4 1/2 bathrooms.

Original details are particularly prevalent in the entry hall and formal living and dining room.