BEACHTOWN SEASIDE RESIDENCE
Architect Michael Imber

This Beachfront home in Beachtown was inspired by architect Michael Imber’s childhood memories of Galveston’s rich architectural past.
 
A common trait of all coastal houses in the 19th Century was the simple wood construction which was often colorfully articulated, each element taking on a different shade or hue.  The interiors of these houses, whether elaborate or simple, were just as expressive of the building’s nature: wood sheathing meant to give the building lateral strength was expressed at times simply as painted one-by boards, but more often it was elaborated as v-groove or bead board with its many variations; wood floors were clean and simple-sometimes natural, sometimes painted.  Coastal buildings were a product of their environment and were all reflective of the climate, staying cool with tall triple-hung windows, high ceilings, cross ventilation and sleeping porches, all designed to take advantage of cooling breezes.
 
This house has become more than an inspiration—it has become the model of a home at Beachtown—designed for our modern lifestyles, filled with light, fresh sea breezes and charm.  In the end it is simple things celebrated: a simple life, a simple home, the sea.