Davis Building (Dallas, Texas)
| Company type | Building |
|---|---|
| Industry | Real estate |
| Founded | 1925 |
| Headquarters | Dallas , United States |
| Products | Residential apartments, commercial space |
The Drakestone—previously known as the Davis Building—is a 20-floor skyscraper located in downtown Dallas, with a height of 323 feet (98 meters).
History
Republic National Bank commenced operations in early 1926, hosting its inaugural open house on February 15. Architect Charles D. Hill died shortly before the building's completion. By 1954, the bank had moved to the larger Republic National Bank Building at 300 North Ervay Street, leaving the Main Street premises in December of that year. Subsequently, in June, the structure at 1309 Main Street was renamed following its purchase by chairman Wirt Davis, along with Percy Davis, Charles Sammons, and H. Harrison.
In January 1967, proposals were made to update the building's interior and transform the lower four floors into an air-conditioned shopping arcade, enhancing tunnel access to One Main Place and The Renaissance Tower; nevertheless, these modernization efforts were never fully realized.
Due to financial challenges, lenders foreclosed on The Davis Building in August 1986, acquiring it for $18.5 million. The property was partially utilized as a filming site for the 1991 film Touch and Die, featuring Martin Sheen.
Hamilton Properties took ownership in 1997 with intentions to convert the building into residential lofts. By March 2002, construction financing was obtained and renovation work commenced. The cupola was illuminated again in 2003 for the first time since 1954, and the building reopened containing 183 loft apartments—representing the only renovation project that achieved success.
In May 2011, The Bascom Group became the new owner of The Davis Building.
The Drakestone holds status as a Dallas Landmark and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.
See also
External links
- Commercial buildings completed in 1925
- Residential skyscrapers in Dallas
- National Register of Historic Places in Dallas
- Bank buildings on the National Register of Historic Places in Texas
- Dallas Landmarks
- Individually listed contributing properties to historic districts on the National Register in Texas
- 1925 establishments in Texas