Located in Houston Heights, Michael Hsu Office of Architecture and Hai Hospitality have brought new life to a 1940s gabled church by transforming it into an Asian smokehouse while still preserving the character of the original structure.

The church’s former sanctuary is now the restaurant’s main dining room. Skylights were added to bring a lighter and welcoming feeling into the space, and the church’s former entrance has been replaced by an east-facing glass wall. Exposed wooden beams from the front patio into the dining room, evoke the feeling of an old Texas dance hall.

Loro Houston has been a project Mason’s Mill & Lumber Co. has held near and dear since the build began. The project features lumber picked from our yard on both the exterior and interior and also includes special pieces used to create the furniture within. The restaurant features a bold, modern, beautiful design that has transformed the culture of west 11th street and our entire team is excited to experience both the food and the architecture in the months to come!