editor Posted September 19, 2007 Share Posted September 19, 2007 I received an e-mail a while ago from a Frances Harvey who had her wedding at the top of the Esperson buildings in 1992. Apparently, it was shows on KHOU. She was good enough to share her wedding photos with us so we can get a rare view of this Houston architectural landmark. http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment.jpeg http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment-1.jpeg http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment-2.jpeg http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment-3.jpeg http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment-4.jpeg http://www.houstonarchitecture.info/HAI/Temp/mime-attachment-5.jpeg 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
musicman Posted September 19, 2007 Share Posted September 19, 2007 wow! that is a view! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeebus Posted September 19, 2007 Share Posted September 19, 2007 1992?? More like 1982!!Sadly, the only outfit from those pictures that is still fashionable is the groom's tux. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bkjones98 Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 1992?? More like 1982!!Sadly, the only outfit from those pictures that is still fashionable is the groom's tux.LOL, I totally agree. If those are from 1999, I'm going to cry. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
editor Posted September 20, 2007 Author Share Posted September 20, 2007 1992?? More like 1982!!Sadly, the only outfit from those pictures that is still fashionable is the groom's tux.This woman was nice enough to share with us the most important moment in her life, and that's all you can say? Geez. What a jerk. Think before you post. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sevfiv Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 how cool - gives a nice perspective since everything looks so tiny from the ground.thanks to Frances for sharing them 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
EastEnd Susan Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 I've always wondered what the top of the Esperson looked like up close. Great pics. Thanks for posting. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Montrose1100 Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 Lovely! Does she or her husban or anyone in the family have ties to the Espersons? Or did they just pay to have it there? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jeebus Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 This woman was nice enough to share with us the most important moment in her life, and that's all you can say? Geez. What a jerk. Think before you post. I did think. I changed "father" to "groom". But here, since this is what you really wanted: Oh wow, great pictures! Thanks for sharing! I bet the view was spectacular! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bachanon Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 yes, thank you for sharing frances harvey. i thoroughly enjoyed the pictures. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MidtownCoog Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 I have a good view of the top from my office. It always looks "spooky" to me at night when it's all lit up.Boo! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vertigo58 Posted September 20, 2007 Share Posted September 20, 2007 They are rare photos and nice and appreciated. Elevator going down please: Now I must ask Do divorces take place in the basement? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
editor Posted July 12, 2008 Author Share Posted July 12, 2008 Subject: The Esperson Buildings Location : Downtown Houston Date: January, 2008 Photographer: Wayne Lorentz One of the city's best examples of classical architecture may also qualify as the city's most haunted. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Talbot Posted August 6, 2008 Share Posted August 6, 2008 This building is one of my favorites in Houston. I think its a fantastic looking building. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Pumapayam Posted August 6, 2008 Share Posted August 6, 2008 (edited) This building is one of my favorites in Houston. I think its a fantastic looking building.Is that the building used for the Neo Classical icon in the profile post status? Edited August 6, 2008 by Pumapayam 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted August 6, 2008 Share Posted August 6, 2008 Is that the building used for the Neo Classical icon in the profile post status?That'd be it. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jax Posted August 5, 2012 Share Posted August 5, 2012 I got to go up on the roof of the Esperson building last week. I actually work there but I just figured out how to get access to the roof. It was pretty awesome. Here are some photos. Downtown Houston View from Esperson Roof by J-a-x, on Flickr Dowotnwon Houston looking East - Esperson Roof by J-a-x, on Flickr Downtown Houston View from Esperson Roof 2 by J-a-x, on Flickr Houston Skyline from Esperson Building (closeup) by J-a-x, on Flickr Esperson Building Roof Details by J-a-x, on Flickr 8 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kylejack Posted August 5, 2012 Share Posted August 5, 2012 A pic I snapped of it from Reliant Energy Plaza. Will try to eliminate the reflections next time. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
little frau Posted August 5, 2012 Share Posted August 5, 2012 Great photos, thanks for posting. And, I think the reflection in that second shot is kinda neat. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LTAWACS Posted August 6, 2012 Share Posted August 6, 2012 Awesome pics. Thanks for posting!! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
kylejack Posted August 14, 2012 Share Posted August 14, 2012 Is that access-controlled, Jax, or could anyone get out there? I saw someone standing out there on Friday. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LTAWACS Posted August 14, 2012 Share Posted August 14, 2012 Do tell. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BaylorGuy05 Posted August 15, 2012 Share Posted August 15, 2012 I appraised Esperson last year and we were allowed to go up. Yes, it is access controlled for insurance reasons. As someone who loves our skyline and downtown it was a great experience to see the city from there! The pic below is my favorite from the visit. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
i_am_jim Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 The Neils -- Esperson Building is the only complete example of Italian Renaissance architecture in Downtown Houston. Designed by theater architect John Eberson, the Esperson building was built in 1927. It's elaborately detailed with massive columns, great urns, terraces, and a grand tempietto at the top, similar to one built in the courtyard of San Pietro in Rome in 1502. It was the tallest building in Houston until the Gulf Building was built two years later. Neils Esperson's wife Mellie Esperson had the building constructed for her husband, Niels, a real estate and oil tycoon, and his name is carved on the side of the building, above the entrance, in large letters. 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 I remember reading something that it was haunted by a maintenance man that was killed in an elevator accident. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
i_am_jim Posted January 22, 2013 Share Posted January 22, 2013 I'm not aware of the maintenance man but there have been reported sightings Mellie Esperson herself in the building as well as a feeling of her presence in the hallways 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rsb320 Posted January 23, 2013 Share Posted January 23, 2013 I think I was mistaken. Someone's grandfather worked there as a maintenance man and had ghost stories. I know the ghost at Spaghetti Warehouse is supposed to be the wife of the pharmacist that worked there, who fell down the elevator shaft. She's still looking for him. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lockmat Posted September 8, 2013 Share Posted September 8, 2013 (edited) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj98XGxChFIhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zj98XGxChFI Edited September 8, 2013 by lockmat 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nate99 Posted May 6, 2014 Share Posted May 6, 2014 They just shifted their construction walls around to reveal the escalators from the tunnel up to the lobby.  They are reconfiguring the space in front of Schlotzky's now with new temporary walls up in front of it. The two Asian food places reopened with a more food court-esque design, perhaps they will be adding more slots in where that seating used to be.  4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mollusk Posted May 6, 2014 Share Posted May 6, 2014 The plaid terrazzo really grew on me over the years.  I can't figure out why they decided to draw an arc into it, much less an arc of white that is going to look really grubby really fast under all those dining tables. Dang kids. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HoustonBoy Posted May 6, 2014 Share Posted May 6, 2014 They should line all walls underground with faux brick. The whole system looks creepy and way too industrial. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 19, 2014 Share Posted September 19, 2014 (edited) Had a day off of work last week and decided to get a closer look at the grand tempietto of the Esperson buildings. Here is what I saw: Old mail chute Gulf building These old loudspeakers surrounded the entire balcony perimeter. Anyone know what they were for? Nice views.. Beautiful urns... The grand tempietto... Hope you enjoyed! Edited September 20, 2014 by Howard Huge 7 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Montrose1100 Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Old Air raid speakers maybe? You lucky dog! Thanks for sharing. 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mollusk Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Wow. Â Very cool. Â Who did you have to bribe to get out on the upper deck? Â 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Old Air raid speakers maybe? You lucky dog! Thanks for sharing.Thats one theory!Maybe they played music? Or told the time? Or played bells like a clock tower?Id really like to know. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Wow. Very cool. Who did you have to bribe to get out on the upper deck?No one, I "snuck" up there!I got a workout too because the elevator will only take you to floor 17 unless you have a card key.Does anyone know what companies occupy the upper "access only" floors?Also, I know these buildings are haunted. I have to say I felt an EXTREMELY eerie presence walking in the staircases and hallways. There was no one else there but I definitely "felt" someone or something watching me. It was pretty scary. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mollusk Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Once upon a time, years ago, there was a small law firm on one of the way upper floors. Â IDK who is there now. Â Â As for the speakers, IIRC they once played some simulated carillon music on the hour. Â I think I even heard it recently, for the first time in forever. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigFootsSocks Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 No one, I "snuck" up there! I got a workout too because the elevator will only take you to floor 17 unless you have a card key. Does anyone know what companies occupy the upper "access only" floors? Also, I know these buildings are haunted. I have to say I felt an EXTREMELY eerie presence walking in the staircases and hallways. There was no one else there but I definitely "felt" someone or something watching me. It was pretty scary. It was the NSA 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 It was the NSA Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
txn4art Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Once upon a time, years ago, there was a small law firm on one of the way upper floors.  IDK who is there now.   As for the speakers, IIRC they once played some simulated carillon music on the hour.  I think I even heard it recently, for the first time in forever. I'm amazed that it still exists! If memory serves correctly, there was the famous Westminster chime on the hour, followed by a repeated bell note striking the hour. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 I always thought that Westminster chime came from a church in downtown? 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nativehoustonion Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 Great pictures it's a beautiful building. Cannot believe you got up there.  1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
txn4art Posted September 20, 2014 Share Posted September 20, 2014 I always thought that Westminster chime came from a church in downtown?It's been decades since I've spent any time out-of-doors in downtown Houston and the sound of the chimes seem to float over high over the city. Back then, the only churches that were truly considered as being "downtown" were Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Christ Church Cathedral, First Methodist Church and Annunciation Catholic Church. For a variety of reasons, church bells usually don't sound every hour. 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
little frau Posted September 21, 2014 Share Posted September 21, 2014 Thank you so much! 2 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tumbleweed_Tx Posted September 22, 2014 Share Posted September 22, 2014 FMC does the "Big Ben" tune every hour 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
txn4art Posted September 23, 2014 Share Posted September 23, 2014 (edited) FMC does the "Big Ben" tune every hour Wow...that must be a distraction during Sunday services, weddings, funerals, etc.! Edited September 23, 2014 by txn4art 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Howard Huge Posted September 23, 2014 Share Posted September 23, 2014 FMC does the "Big Ben" tune every hourI knew it 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
samagon Posted December 16, 2015 Share Posted December 16, 2015 (edited) Shot on my phone yesterday at lunch. Sorry for the quality! Edited December 16, 2015 by samagon 3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cspwal Posted December 16, 2015 Share Posted December 16, 2015 Are you sorry the quality is so good? Â Nice photo! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Highrise Tower Posted September 21, 2019 Share Posted September 21, 2019 https://www.arch-con.com/division/kelsey-seybold-esperson-clinic/ Quote Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in the Downtown Tunnels, beneath the Niels and Millie Esperson Buildings, will be the first primary care clinic located in the Tunnels. This will be the second Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in Houston’s downtown area. Arch-Con will be renovating the 2,640-square-foot space, which includes a lobby, reception area, two exam rooms, a storage room, IT room, and an employee break room. The clinic will offer regular outpatient services. The location will give people who work west of Main Street easy access to a Kelsey-Seybold provider. Photo I took on Friday. 7 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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