Book Signing:

Houston Deco: Modernistic Architecture of the Texas Coast

Photographed and written by
Jim Parsons and David Bush

Foreword by
Madeleine McDermott Hamm

George R. Brown
Convention Center, Hall B
September 19, 2008, 2:00 p.m.

In the 1920s, as Houston was beginning its transition from medium-sized Southern city to major American metropolis, local business and civic leaders made a conscious decision to create a new image for their community. For many, modernistic architecture symbolized their best hopes for Houston's future. As the Roaring Twenties gave way to the Great Depression, Art Deco zigzags and Art Moderne streamlining reshaped the city's stores and skyscrapers, factories and apartment buildings. Modernistic design was a major force in Houston architecture through the post-World War II building boom. As the style fell from fashion, buildings were altered or demolished, and modernistic architecture vanished from many parts of the city.

Houston Deco documents Houston's surviving Art Deco and Art Moderne architecture in beautiful color photographs. Images showcase the fine detailing on these frequently overlooked buildings. From downtown landmarks to East End industrial sites, Houston Deco captures the grace and beauty of these innovative designs. Jim Parsons and David Bush have documented historic buildings across the city for the Greater Houston Preservation Alliance. This book grew out of the organization's efforts to focus attention on continuing threats to the historic River Oaks and Alabama theaters and River Oaks Shopping Center.

Jim Parsons is a freelance writer, editor, photographer and a volunteer for Greater Houston Preservation Alliance.

David Bush is Director of Programs and Information for Greater Houston Preservation Alliance.

Madeleine McDermott Hamm is a freelance design writer and antiques dealer, and former Houston Chronicle Home Design Editor.