Historic Kirby Mansion Sold to New Ownership
OBB Texas Properties LLC has acquired the 36-room Midtown Houston mansion.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Commercial
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OBB Texas Properties LLC completed its purchase of the historic Kirby Mansion in Midtown Houston on October 1, 2026. The 36-room property, located at 2000 Smith St., was previously held by Ricardo Weitz.
Why it matters
The sale signals a potential new chapter for the century-old estate, which lacks any official historic protections. Local preservationists are seeking discussions with the new owners to determine if the building will be adapted for commercial or hospitality use.
The Kirby Mansion features 36 rooms and was transformed into its current architectural form by James Ruskin Bailey in 1926. The property occupies a portion of a city block in Midtown Houston.
The players
OBB Texas Properties LLC
This is the entity that recently acquired the Kirby Mansion.
Preservation Houston
This organization works to promote the preservation of historic architecture and neighborhoods in the Houston area.
James Ruskin Bailey
He was the architect responsible for the 1926 transformation of the Kirby Mansion.
The details
While the mansion remains a notable local landmark, it currently holds no state, local, or federal historic designation. Affiliated companies recently secured permits to sell alcohol and retail hemp products at the site earlier in 2026.
Timeline
The original house was built for J.S. Price during the 1890s.
Architect James Ruskin Bailey transformed the mansion in 1926.
Ricardo Weitz purchased the property in 2018.
Permits for alcohol and hemp product sales were obtained in March and April 2026.
OBB Texas Properties LLC acquired the mansion on October 1, 2026.
Culture Shift
The sale follows the pattern set by the adaptive reuse of historic commercial properties in urban centers by repurposing a large estate for modern commercial operations. This transition reflects a broader trend of integrating legacy structures into the evolving business landscape of downtown areas.
The property's lack of historic designation means that future renovations or site changes could proceed without the oversight typical of protected landmarks. Residents and local businesses may see the site transition into a commercial destination like a hotel or restaurant.
The takeaway
The Kirby Mansion sale highlights the vulnerability of unprotected historic properties to modern commercial development. Stakeholders in Houston continue to monitor how such legacy sites are adapted to meet the demands of the current market.
Further reading
For more information on market developments, visit the Houston Commercial section.
Live Poll
Should cities strictly protect historic buildings from demolition even if they lack formal landmark status?
