This English Tudor Revival apartment building constructed in Mahncke Park in 1936 characterizes typical features of this residential style popular in American neighborhoods between 1890 and 1940.
The steeply-pitched roof with prominent front and cross gables would likely have demonstrated decorative half-timbering before its modern renovation.
The black or dark brown painted vergeboards and wood trim of half-timbering would have provided a contrasting ornament to a white stucco cladding under the roof, recalling a type of construction typical of the Elizabethan period.
Another feature that evokes the romantic image of a 16th century English manor house is the extended roofline of the front gable, which drops to pronounce an arched entryway into the building's main porch.
The building's rough limestone veneer is a final romantic touch; while integrating a local San Antonio material, the look of heavy stone evokes the memory of a medieval fortified building.
Although we do not know if the additional gable covering the second entrance just to the left of the main entry is original, I do think that this feature and the iron railings and grills enhance the historical character of the building.
S-curves, curling fern fronds, heart shapes, and diamond-pattern grills protect and ornament the windows, doors and side drive of the building. In the first floor apartment, the character of the medieval manor is continued with the rock fireplace, now painted red, and with the iron wall sconces.
One could imagine replacing the electric light bulbs with more atmospheric tapered candles. The apartments still maintain their original hardwood floors and French doors.
The staircase to the second floor is constructed with real oak treads, a treasure to find in present times due to the decreased availability of hardwood and its tremendous durability.
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