Future of historic apartment complex near Rice University uncertain

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The future is uncertain for a unique building in the Houston area. With a new owner, residents are being told to leave, and the neighborhood is wondering what plans are in the works.

One block south of Rice University sits a small piece of history Sarah Long calls home.

"It's really close to campus, and it's just beautiful; it's a small complex," Long said.

The gardenia tree may be partially hiding the building's name but there's no hiding the history, the charm behind The Josephine.

The U-shaped two story building and its glass block windows are characteristic of a different era.

"It's a beautiful building, built in the 30's, art deco. I mean it's really gorgeous," Long said.

"I think it's a really important part of our neighborhood," neighbor Robert Nelson said.

But perhaps not for much longer. Residents showed us this letter announcing the sale of the Josephine to Tricon, a local architectural firm known for its Inner Loop townhomes. Residents were given 69 days notice to move out.

Margaret Wallace Brown with the city of Houston says she was saddened to hear that yet another historical gem could be on the chopping block.

"The owner could have chosen to make it a protected landmark and therefore the historical commission would have purview of it, but because they didn't there's nothing the city could do," Brown said.

That decision is leaving Long with no other option but to look for a new place.

We reached out to Tricon and were told they aren't yet sure what they plan to do with the property. We'll keep you posted.