In the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas, a remarkable tale of rebirth unfolds.
The Samuel B. Kirby House, once teetering on the edge of demolition, stands today as a testament to the power of dedication and preservation.
Historical Background
Built-in 1887, the Kirby House stands as a remarkable Queen Anne Victorian and a key landmark in Little Rock’s historic preservation efforts.
It stands in the historic Quapaw Quarter, a neighborhood rich in architectural heritage and cultural significance, reflecting the city’s growth and development during the late 19th century.
A Portrait of Neglect
By the time preservationist Tony Curtis encountered it, the Kirby House was a shadow of its former self.
Facing foreclosure and slated for demolition, it had been overrun by time, and the elements.
The house stood in a fragile state, with sections of its roof missing and visible signs of damage.
The interior reflected the exterior’s decay, with peeling paint and crumbling plaster.
Only a single spindle remained of the once-grand staircase.
Tony Curtis’s Vision
Tony Curtis, a man with unwavering determination, often described as having a “steel spine took on the challenge of saving the Kirby House.
With his business partner, Jim, he boldly fought the bank and the city to prevent its demolition.
Seeing past the decay, he pursued a meticulous and authentic restoration, breathing new life into this historic gem.
A Meticulous Restoration
For 20 years, Tony Curtis and his business partner, Jim, dedicated themselves to meticulous restoration of the Samuel B. Kirby House, often recreating lost elements with astonishing accuracy.
The highest level of craftsmanship was employed, resulting in a true-to-form recreation of the Victorian Era home, complete with hand-laid tile floors, a hand-built staircase, and recreated custom trim work throughout.
Before, the tower lacked its distinctive roof, a gaping hole in the home’s silhouette.
Tony Curtis meticulously recreated the roof, based on historical photographs, restoring its crowning glory.
Entryway
The entryway, beautifully restored with rare encaustic tile floors, stands as a stunning return to glory.
After (Photo Credit: YouTube | Our Restoration Nation)
A breathtaking painted stained-glass window, depicting a scene from Greek mythology, adds a touch of artistry.
The hand-built staircase looks like it’s been there since the day the house was built.
The panel down below the staircase still has remnants of its original Lin Cresta wallpaper on it.
Front Parlor
The restored front parlor features period-appropriate mantles and carefully curated furnishings.
Portraits, some reproductions of Kirby family photos, add a personal touch to the space.
Museum-worthy furniture, originally from the Hotsy House, graces the parlor, showcasing exquisite mother-of-pearl inlay.
Dining Room
The original dining room table, painstakingly tracked down, is once again the centerpiece of this elegant space.
A stunning period-appropriate chandelier hangs above the table, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Secondary Parlor
This room showcases a striking Moroccan or Moorish style, with ebonized finishes and intricate details.
The restored bay and arched windows flood the room with natural light, a far cry from its boarded-up past.
Kitchen
The kitchen retains a utilitarian charm, featuring a beautiful double-drainboard sink.
A cherished set of china, which influenced the kitchen and dining room’s color scheme, remains with the house.
Upper Floor
The upper level of this house is a testament to the meticulous restoration that has preserved its Victorian charm.
This area features three beautifully appointed guest bedrooms, a guest bathroom, the primary suite, and a convenient laundry area.
Bathrooms
The Samuel B. Kirby House features three bathrooms, each carefully restored to maintain the home’s Victorian charm while incorporating modern conveniences.
Primary Suite and Guest Bedrooms
The primary suite is a serene retreat, carefully restored to maintain its Victorian elegance while offering modern comforts.
This home also features three guest bedrooms, each beautifully appointed, along with additional spaces such as a grand entry living room, dual parlors, a formal dining room, and a unique tower room that adds to the house’s architectural charm.
Honoring a Legacy
Now, this beautifully restored home offers a unique opportunity for someone to continue the legacy of preserving historic properties, making it a once-in-a-lifetime chance to own a piece of history.
The house is sold with its curated Victorian furniture and art, including pieces originally from the Hotsy House, further enriching its cultural significance.