Architecture, Interior Design, Commercial
The Light Building
Originally constructed around 1909 by local attorney Henry Terrell—son of prominent San Antonio businessman Edwin H. Terrell—this three-story Renaissance Revival building holds a rich place in San Antonio’s architectural history. It originally served as a small hotel with commercial storefronts at street level and housed the San Antonio YWCA between 1910 and 1915.
FPC was first engaged to conduct a feasibility study, assessing the building’s condition and exploring opportunities to reprogram the ground floor for retail use while preparing the upper levels for office lease space. The study evolved into a full historic rehabilitation effort.
Our work included selective demolition, exterior masonry restoration, full replacement of the building’s windows and roof, and the installation of a new elevator and upgraded MEP systems. Structural reinforcements were added where needed, and the original fire escapes were replaced to meet current codes. The interior was fully renovated to a “white box” condition, including the addition of base building amenities such as restrooms, janitor/mechanical closets, and utility spaces.
To pursue Historic Tax Credits, the project was developed in close coordination with the Texas Historical Commission (THC). FPC worked hand-in-hand with both the client and THC to ensure the rehabilitation respected the building’s historic character while addressing modern needs.