Help Repair Cottage 313

Cottage 313 is a historic home in the heart of East Downtown Houston. Built in 1930, the house was not only a family home, but also a local grocery store (Alvarado Grocery). The Alvarado family provided fresh food and homemade Mexican treats to the neighborhood for almost three (3) decades. The house was once my private residence but was converted to a rental and micro-event venue. 

 

The house is 91 years old and in constant need of repair.

 

I purchased the home in 2010 with the dream of saving it to preserve a small piece of Houston East-end history. I have opened the home up to guests in the hopes of sharing it's story to inspire others. I do not want developers to take this home and level it for more "McMansions" in the neighborhood. 

 

When Covid-19 hit, private rentals stopped completely for over 6 months. It was a hard expense to carry, but somehow, I was able to pull through. The costs to repair the home have more than doubled this year due to cost of materials skyrocketing.  The extra purchases needed to provide additional Covid-19 cleaning/safety protocols also add to monthly expenses. I have some amazing contractors that provide exceptional cleaning, management, and landscaping work for the home.  I want to keep them on my team as long as possible.

 

I have a dream of opening this home up for small events again; such as private weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, family reunions, artist showcases, and an arts market. I'd like to partner with Our Lady of Guadalupe Church on their annual fundraisers. I'd like to bring the community back to the neighborhood. I want others to make amazing memories at this home, which is so full of love and warmth.

This home has been a beacon of light since 1930. Please help us keep it repaired. 

 

Upkeep is constant for a 90+  year old home. We are constantly replacing damaged wood, painting, caulking/sealing, power washing and laying new landscape. On top of these everyday repairs, in 2021 Storm Uri devastated the garden and Hurricane Nicholas took out our 8' security fence on one side. Both costs to repair have been more than we expected.  

 

Please consider a small donation to help us repair and keep this historic home open to East End guests. 

Thank you for supporting Cottage 313 and helping preserve this historic home for future generations to enjoy!

Miranda