Historic Houston Kirby Mansion Sold to New Developer
The 36-room Midtown mansion has new ownership, leaving neighbors wondering if it will become a restaurant or offices.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Commercial
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OBB Texas Properties LLC acquired the historic Kirby Mansion in Midtown Houston on October 1, 2026. The 36-room property, located at 2000 Smith St., currently lacks any formal historic designation, raising questions about its future development.
Why it matters
Because previous owners never sought historic status for the property, the new buyer faces few regulatory barriers in repurposing the site. The potential conversion of this century-old landmark into a commercial hotel, office, or restaurant could significantly change the character of the surrounding block.
The property contains 36 rooms and was transformed into its current form in 1926. While it previously served as a Red Cross headquarters for 30 years, it currently carries no official historic protection.
The players
OBB Texas Properties LLC
The new owner of the Kirby Mansion that has recently obtained permits for alcohol and retail hemp sales at the site.
Preservation Houston
A local non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of Houston's historic architecture that plans to meet with the new owners.
James Ruskin Bailey
The architect responsible for the 1926 transformation of the Kirby Mansion.
The details
The mansion was originally constructed in the 1890s before being rebuilt by architect James Ruskin Bailey in 1926. The new owner, OBB Texas Properties LLC, recently secured permits allowing for the retail sale of hemp products and alcohol at the address. Preservation Houston has indicated plans to engage with the developer to discuss potential preservation efforts for the site.
Timeline
1890s: The original house was built for J.S. Price.
1926: Architect James Ruskin Bailey transformed the mansion.
2018: Ricardo Weitz purchased the property.
March and April 2026: Permits for alcohol and hemp sales were obtained.
October 1, 2026: OBB Texas Properties LLC completed the purchase of the mansion.
The Home Front
The Kirby Mansion sale follows a long-standing trend in Houston where historic residential properties are redeveloped without the protections afforded by formal historic designations. This transition reflects the ongoing pressure on Midtown real estate as older homes are repurposed for commercial use.
Homeowners in Midtown should monitor city permit filings for the 2000 Smith St. address to see if the proposed restaurant or hotel plans move forward. If you live nearby, check with your local neighborhood association for any upcoming zoning or public planning meetings regarding this block.
The takeaway
The sale highlights how quickly architectural history can shift when a building lacks official designation. Neighbors can track potential commercial impacts by watching for new construction or renovation signage posted at the property site.
Further reading
Learn more about local real estate trends by browsing our Commercial section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chron.
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Should cities strictly protect historic buildings from demolition even if they lack formal landmark status?
