Williams Tower

Williams Tower is perhaps the most iconic piece of real estate in Houston. The towering monolith can be seen from almost anywhere in Houston. I have even seen it from as far away as Sugar Land. The building sits in the Galleria area, one of the hottest real estate areas in the city. It was even named as one of America's Favorite Structures by the American Institute of Architects.

But what is the history of this famous building? The building was designed by John Burgee Architects, an architect firm based out of New York. It was completed in December of the year 1982. At the time of its construction is was considered the tallest skyscraper in the world outside of a central business district. The original name of the building was Transco Tower, after Transco Energy Company, the building's first major tenant. Many Houstonians still fondly refer to it as Transco Tower. I know I still do.

Williams Tower was named "Skyscraper of the Century" by Texas Monthly magazine in its 1999 issue. At night, a 7,000 watt beacon, positioned at the building's apex, sweeps across the city. It is said that on a clear night, the light can be seen from as far as 40 miles away. This classic building is one of my favorite pieces of real estate in the entire state of Texas.