A home recently listed for sale in a quiet cul-de-sac of the Mahncke Park neighborhood was built by H.C. Thorman, the renowned builder who left his indelible mark on the historic neighborhoods of Olmos Park and Monticello Park.
During San Antonio’s golden age of architecture, Thorman was considered one of the city’s most prolific developers, averaging 30 to 40 homes annually through the ’20s and ’30s. He specialized in building dwellings for the city’s well-heeled set, who required a life of opulence despite the onset of the Great Depression. In Thorman’s own words , he constructed “dandy homes” that were “built substantially” and boasted “every modern convenience,” the Express-News reported, quoting one of his advertisements. But he also constructed numerous homes for the working class that powered the burgeoning city’s economy. However, the recently listed Mahncke Park house is of the dandy variety — and it comes with a $729,000 price tag.
The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home was built in 1935 in the Spanish-Mediterranean style that was all the rage — and still is — in San Antonio. Exquisite architectural details throughout the house include elaborate carvings, imported crystal chandeliers and original plaster moldings.
From the curb, the 2,200-square-foot residence projects an abundance of Old World opulence thanks to its arched doors and windows along with its thick stone walls. The arched doorways also continue as an elegant motif throughout the structure, retaining its Mediterranean flavor.
An elaborately carved relief on the living room fireplace appears to depict children at play or on their way to a market.
The primary suite features its own sitting room, ample walk-in closet and an en suite bath complete with a soaking tub.
Outside, a courtyard fountain is set against the backdrop of a spacious backyard.
Dandy, indeed.
This home is listed by Michaela Ayden with Phyllis Browning Co.
All photos and listing info via Realtor.com.
Every house has a story, and our mission is to tell San Antonio’s story through the lens of our community’s historic and colorful homes. The San Antonio Current’s real estate features are not ads, and are strictly operated through our editorial department. But we love public input. Do you know of a unique San Antonio home that we should highlight? Let us know, and email skoithan@sacurrent.com.
