Constructed in 1961 by Architect William Dukes as his family home, with Jack Peterson serving as lead draftsman, this San Antonio residence stands as a rare example of highly progressive modern design in South Texas. Peterson, who had worked with O’Neil Ford’s office, assisted Dukes in developing the home’s distinctive space-frame structure. Despite Dukes’ prolific work in Mid-century Modern residential, church and school design, the home was unusually advanced for the area.
After passing through multiple owners and withstanding investor-led alterations that stripped original details and introduced lower-quality materials, the home was left in severe disrepair. Another owner with architectural interest attempted restoration but stopped work because costs exceeded the market values of the neighborhood.
In 2020, Craig McMahon, AIA, and his interior designer spouse Molly McMahon purchased the home with the intention of making it their family residence. The home underwent a full renovation and restoration during the COVID pandemic, which created severe material shortages and logistical challenges.
Today, however, the home reflects the original architectural vision while accommodating contemporary living. It has hosted professional architectural events and design award programs, highlighting its successful revival.
A Family Affair
The home strongly resembles Los Angeles Case Study Architecture, evoking the work of architects, like Charles and Ray Eames, John Entenza, Richard Neutra and Eero Saarinen. Given McMahon’s experience living in Los Angeles and studying these precedents, encountering a comparable design in South Texas was unexpected. With its space-frame roof, extensive glass connections and open layout, the home stood out and deserved preservation.
The restoration demanded intensive research, creative problem-solving and hands-on effort. Original construction drawings by William Dukes were discovered onsite and preserved with assistance from the local AIA. These documents proved essential in guiding the restoration, particularly as major portions of the home—the bedroom wing and kitchen—had been demolished.
The home required complete rebuilding of utilities, windows and structural components. Custom wood window and door frames were milled onsite using salvaged Douglas fir. Direct-glazed insulated glass provided a cost-effective solution for large window spans. Foundation cuts had to be made to replace sewer lines.
The entire McMahon family became deeply involved. They established a temporary workshop onsite, producing cabinetry, millwork and finishes themselves. IKEA cabinetry systems were adapted with custom wood cladding to match the original design intent. Craig and Molly’s son and daughter, Rachel McMahon, managing director of the Austin School of Furniture, spent six months recreating interior woodwork and custom staining the unique wood design.
Original elements were carefully restored or replicated. The carved front door was recreated, and Beaumont Mood ceramic light fixtures were refurbished. Lost cement-asbestos, or cemesto, exterior panels were recreated onsite to match the original aesthetic. The team developed a custom method of casting thin concrete panels but unexpected environmental factors—even birds staining wet panels while curing—created obstacles.
COVID-era shortages required constant sourcing of available materials nationwide. Appliances, fixtures, and finishes were secured through extensive research and persistence.
Design Adjustments
Because of early stages and missing original documentation at first, certain layout decisions were made independently. The primary bedroom was relocated to the rear for privacy, aligning with Dukes’ design philosophy for the home. The kitchen, originally enclosed, was redesigned as an open space.
Additional glazing was introduced in the loft to enhance natural light while maintaining privacy—consistent with the home’s original principles.
The restoration took three years and required balancing historical accuracy with modern functionality. It required significant time, effort and personal investment. Acting as both architect and contractor allowed cost savings while collaboration with skilled tradespeople ensured high-quality execution.
Ultimately, the 2,450-square-foot project stands as a testament to the value of preserving architecturally significant work. The McMahons’ efforts reflect a broader principle: Meaningful architecture can endure when recognized and restored by those willing to invest in its legacy.
PHOTOS: Craig McMahon unless otherwise noted
Retrofit Team
Architect and Contractor: Craig McMahon Architects
Framer/Trim: Henry Hernandez, (210) 493-9181
Concrete: Israel Espinosa, (210) 663-4559
Specialized Trim: Supercarps Inc., (210) 882-7676
Materials
Doors and Windows: Milgard Windows and Doors and ETO Doors
Door Hardware: Emtek
Paint/Stains: Sherwin-Williams, Valspar and PPG
Refrigerator, Oven, Microwave and Dishwasher: Bosch
Washer and Dryer: LG
Toilets and Bathtub: Kohler
Shower/Tub, Lavatory and Kitchen Fixtures: Hansgrohe
Lighting Controls: Caseta by Lutron
HVAC: LG Heat Pump
Cabinetry: IKEA
Design Recognition
2026 Best in American Living Awards, Gold Award
2025 AIA San Antonio People and Place Awards, Design Award Winner
2025 San Antonio AIA Residential Design Awards, Finalist
2025 Golden Nugget Design Awards, Silver Award
2025 Preservation San Antonio Design Awards, Honor Award
2025 Texas Tech University College of Architecture Design Awards, Merit Award
2025 Qualified Remodeler Master Design Awards, Gold Award
