Houston’s Beer Can House is now a nationally preserved landmark. The house is famous for its unusual cover of more than 50,000 beer cans. It is found in the Rice Military neighborhood. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has given it a special place. The Beer Can House joins 18 other cultural sites in the Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios network. This group is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The network was created to protect America’s art and creative places.
The Beer Can House stands out in Houston. In a city with many old buildings, its design is truly unique. The house is a small bungalow. It is one of the few of its kind in the area. Most homes nearby are modern townhouses. The Beer Can House, with its bright cans, catches the eye of everyone who sees it.
John Milkovisch started the project in 1968. He grew tired of mowing his yard. To change things, he began to cover his house with found objects. He added marbles, rocks, and pieces of metal. Soon, he started to attach his used aluminum beer cans to the walls. Over 18 years, he transformed his home into a piece of art. His work turned the house into what people now call the “Beer Can House.”
The design includes many fun features. There are giant wind chimes made of cans. Metal garlands hang from the walls. Shimmering curtains of cans give the house a sparkle. Even the mailbox is decorated with beer cans. These details make the home a true work of art. The creative use of cans shows the artist’s playful side.
After John Milkovisch and his wife Mary passed away, the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art took over the house. They restored it and have cared for it since 2001. Today, visitors can walk around and see the art on the outside. They can also look inside at the decorated rooms. The building tells the story of one man’s creative spirit.
The news of the landmark designation is a big honor. The Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios network now includes many different sites. These sites range from a dog-friendly sculpture park in Vermont to a three-story limestone log cabin in Kansas. There is even a site built by an artist woman that is the oldest of its kind in the country. HAHS Director Valerie Balint said the group shows the rich art legacy of the United States.
Jack Massing, director of the Orange Show Center, said he is very proud of the Beer Can House. He told the press, “We are honored to be accepted into the Historic Artists’ Homes and Studios network.” He added that this landmark status shows the deep cultural and artistic value of the house. Massing said the house is a space that celebrates creativity and community. He believes that being part of this group will help more people learn about the home. It will also help protect the house for future generations.
The Beer Can House is more than just a quirky attraction. It is a reminder that art can be found in everyday life. Its design shows the power of creative thinking. The house brings together art, history, and community spirit in one small building. Now, with its new landmark status, the home will be safe for many years to come.
This recognition is good news for Houston and for lovers of art. It shows that even the most unusual ideas can become important parts of our cultural heritage. The story of the Beer Can House is one of passion and creativity. As the house is preserved, its colorful past and playful design will continue to inspire visitors from near and far.