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45th Annual Mesta Park Holiday Home Tour

Home Histories

Welcome to Mesta Park: A Historic Neighborhood Full of Charm and Community

Mesta Park is a historic gem nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City, celebrated for its early 20th-century architecture and strong sense of community. Originally platted as University Addition in 1902, Mesta Park offers a glimpse into the residential life of Oklahoma’s territorial days and the architectural styles that flourished just after statehood.

By 1906, sidewalks were being laid, and construction of homes was well underway, giving the neighborhood its early foundation. By 1910, the arrival of the trolley, which ran along Western, Shartel, and NW 18th Street, connected Mesta Park to the wider city, further solidifying its place as a thriving residential area. Today, the neighborhood is known for its diverse mix of architectural styles, including Tudor Revival, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman homes, many of which have been carefully preserved, adding to the distinctive charm and character that define Mesta Park.

In 1983, Mesta Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to the neighborhood’s rich history and the enduring appeal of its well-maintained homes.

One of the most beloved traditions in Mesta Park is the annual Holiday Home Tour, an event that brings the community together while showcasing the neighborhood’s historic homes. This cherished occasion allows visitors to explore the unique architectural styles of each residence, offering a deeper understanding of the history and craftsmanship that make Mesta Park so special.

The Home Tour is not just about the houses—it’s a celebration of the neighborhood’s spirit. We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers, whose support and hard work make this event possible. Proceeds from the tour benefit the Mesta Park Neighborhood Association, supporting projects and initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents and the surrounding community as well as ensure the continued preservation of the neighborhood’s historic character.

Thank you for joining us in celebrating the 45th annual Mesta Park Holiday Home Tour. We are delighted to have you as part of this enduring tradition.

Click on the photos to learn the history of each home on the Holiday Home Tour

This stunning historic residence, built in 1910, stands as a proud example of early 20th-century architecture in Oklahoma City's Mesta Park neighborhood. Its classic gable roof design and stately Colonial Revival style reflect the timeless elegance that was so popular during that era. Spanning over 3,000 square feet, this spacious home features four well-appointed bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering ample room for comfortable living while preserving the charm and character of a bygone era.

Over the years, this home has undergone several thoughtful updates that have enhanced its beauty while respecting its historical integrity. One significant renovation took place around 1930, when modern features were added to the home, complementing its existing architecture without sacrificing its historic appeal. In 2014, another remodel updated the home, blending its classic style with more contemporary needs, ensuring it remained both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The current owner, Ms. Lauren Warkentine, purchased the home in 2019 and immediately set about reimagining its spaces. She thoughtfully remodeled the downstairs floor plan, creating a more open and inviting layout, while also expanding the upstairs hallways to improve flow and natural light. Most recently, Ms. Warkentine transformed the basement into a welcoming living space, offering even more room for relaxation and entertainment. The exterior of the home has also received a refresh, with new landscaping and a fresh coat of paint that beautifully highlights the home’s architectural details while blending harmoniously with the surrounding neighborhood.

This home stands as a testament to the evolving nature of Mesta Park, blending the charm of its historical roots with the modern comforts of today. As you explore this exquisite residence, you’ll be reminded of the beauty and craftsmanship that make Mesta Park one of Oklahoma City’s most cherished historic neighborhoods.

901 NW 16th St

The Warkentine Home
901 NW 16th Street: A Glimpse Into the Past

Step inside the historic residence of Dustin and Andrea Motley, a remarkable example of early 20th-century architecture in Oklahoma City’s Mesta Park neighborhood. Built in 1905, just a few years before Oklahoma achieved statehood, this home holds significant historical value not only for its age but also for its distinctive architectural style. The charming hip roof, typical of the era, contributes to the home’s timeless silhouette, making it a standout in the neighborhood.

With 2,321 square feet of living space, this residence features three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, offering plenty of room for comfortable family living. Inside, you'll find high ceilings, original woodwork, and period-specific details like built-in cabinetry—hallmarks of the craftsmanship typical of early 20th-century homes. These features give the home a warm, inviting character that reflects the era in which it was built.

An interesting chapter in the home’s history involves a period when it was divided into two separate residences. This adaptation, common during times of economic change and population shifts, highlights the home’s resilience and ability to evolve with the needs of its residents over the years.

In more recent times, the home earned the quirky nickname "The Haunted House," as its previous owners kept Halloween decorations up year-round, along with a striking hearse that added to the home’s memorable atmosphere.

In 2023, Dustin and Andrea Motley took on the task of restoring and renovating the property, ensuring that this historic home would continue to shine for years to come. Their full renovation reflects a growing trend in Mesta Park to preserve the unique character of these homes while modernizing them to meet today’s needs. The Motleys’ commitment to maintaining the home’s historical charm while making it functional for contemporary living helps ensure that this neighborhood treasure will continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

717 NW 16th St

The Motley Home
717 NW 16th Street: A Timeless Gem in Mesta Park

Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City’s historic Mesta Park neighborhood, Jimmie and Susan Ownbey’s custom-designed home is a perfect example of how contemporary design can harmonize with the area’s early 20th-century charm. Built in 2019, this single-story ranch spans 2,700 square feet and offers two spacious bedrooms and 1 ¾ bathrooms. The home’s thoughtful design blends modern luxury with a deep respect for the surrounding architecture, ensuring that it feels right at home alongside the historic residences that define Mesta Park.

The Ownbeys worked closely with architect Sam Gresham to create a home that would not only meet their modern lifestyle needs but also reflect the timeless character of the neighborhood. With materials and design elements chosen to honor Mesta Park’s vintage aesthetic, the home strikes a beautiful balance between the old and the new. Every detail has been carefully considered, from the sleek lines of the contemporary design to the subtle nods to the area’s architectural roots.

The property’s story also connects to the past in a meaningful way: the lot where the home now stands was once a parking area for a nearby children’s home, a poignant piece of the neighborhood’s history that adds another layer of depth to this property’s narrative.

In 2022, the Ownbeys further enhanced their home by renovating the back porch, creating an inviting outdoor space that is perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing in the fresh air. This new outdoor living area combines modern comfort with timeless appeal, offering a space that reflects the family’s love for both style and functionality.

As you explore this thoughtfully designed home, take a moment to appreciate how the Ownbeys have successfully blended contemporary design with the rich history of Mesta Park, ensuring that their home is a beautiful addition to this beloved neighborhood. We hope you enjoy discovering the many layers of history and modernity that make this property so special.

628 NW 21st St

The Ownbey Home
628 NW 21st Street: A Modern Treasure with Historic Charm

Step inside 631 NW 17th Street, a historic gem in the heart of Mesta Park that reflects the neighborhood’s timeless charm and rich history. Built in 1906 in the Prairie Foursquare style, this home is currently owned by Mallory and Ryan Carter and offers an elegant blend of preserved history and modern livability. With its original woodwork, high ceilings, and over 3,600 square feet of space, the home is as stunning today as it was over a century ago.

The story of 631 NW 17th mirrors the evolution of Mesta Park itself. Once owned by Charles V. and Minnie Topping, the home was a hub of social life in its early years. In June 1911, it hosted an elaborate luncheon with over 100 guests, filling its rooms with floral-adorned tables and lively conversation. Over the years, the house adapted to the needs of its occupants, serving as a boarding house during harder times and later hosting joyous family events, including a wedding.

By the 1970s, as Mesta Park faced significant decline, this home became a beacon of the neighborhood’s comeback. Sharen Lenhart, who purchased the property in 1972 for $15,000, invested over $6,000 in repairs, including the addition of the porch you see today. Her efforts, along with those of other urban pioneers, helped restore the beauty of Mesta Park, giving the neighborhood its former nickname: the "Comeback Neighborhood."

Visitors stepping inside today will find a home that has retained its historical integrity while evolving with the times. From its original woodwork to its beautifully preserved craftsmanship, the space reflects the elegance of its Prairie Foursquare roots. At the same time, it offers a glimpse into the lives of its many residents, from the Topping family, who helped shape early Oklahoma City, to the Lenharts, who championed its revitalization.

As you explore 631 NW 17th Street, take a moment to reflect on its journey—through eras of grandeur, challenge, and renewal. This home stands as a testament to the resilience and beauty of Mesta Park, where the past and present come together in harmony. We hope you enjoy your time here and the stories that this historic home has to tell.

631 NW 17th St

The Carter Home
631 NW 17th Street: A Story of Transformation and Resilience

Welcome to 714 NW 21st Street, a beautifully preserved two-story home of Kyle and Rhonda Hazelrigg, which perfectly balances the charm of its historic past while offering the comforts of modern living. Originally built in 1910, this 2,301-square-foot home has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a compelling story of rescue and restoration that has made it a true neighborhood treasure.

The tale of this home’s revival began in 1980 when the Fawcet family, determined to save it from demolition, purchased the property. At the time, the house had been divided into seven apartments, but the Fawcets had a vision to return it to its original glory as a single-family home. Over three years, they meticulously renovated the house, preserving its historical features while breathing new life into its spaces.

As you enter, you’ll immediately notice the spacious and open design that defines the home’s interior. The living and dining rooms, each featuring a charming fireplace, exude warmth and character. A bright and flexible “bar” space with walls of windows offers a perfect setting for a home office or creative room. The kitchen, bathed in natural light, provides ample storage and convenience, with a half-bath just nearby. Upstairs, the main suite has been thoughtfully remodeled with a new bath, while two additional bedrooms and a guest bath round out the second floor, offering comfort and style throughout.

The exterior of the home is just as inviting, with a well-manicured lawn and patio area that’s perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Set on a 7,000-square-foot lot, this home blends historic beauty with modern updates, which were added during a 2013 renovation.

Located in the heart of the Mesta Park neighborhood, the Hazelrigg home stands as a testament to the area’s rich heritage and the dedication of those who have worked to preserve it. This home’s thoughtful restoration is a beautiful example of how modern living can coexist with the timeless elegance of early 20th-century architecture. We hope you enjoy exploring this charming residence and the stories it holds within its walls.

714 NW 21st St

The Hazelrigg Home
714 NW 21st Street: A Historic Gem Revived

As part of this year’s holiday home tour, we invite you to the home of Jan and Bill Young. Take time to pause and enjoy a moment of warmth and charm at 629 NW 17th Street, a historic gem in the heart of Mesta Park. Built in 1909 by L. Levy, this home embodies the classic American Foursquare style, and its welcoming front porch is a perfect example of the architectural elegance that defines this beloved neighborhood.

The porch, with its wide stairs and spacious layout, offers a timeless invitation to sit back, relax, and take in the beauty of the surrounding streetscape. It’s easy to imagine residents over the past century gathering here to sip iced tea, greet neighbors, or watch the seasons change. The sturdy craftsmanship, subtle details, and natural flow from porch to home reflect a time when community connections were built right on the front steps.

The history of 629 NW 17th Street is as enduring as its design. Having had only four owners in over a century, the home has been lovingly maintained by each family, with the current stewards, Bill and Janet Young, ensuring that its early 20th-century charm remains intact. While visitors won’t go inside today, the spirit of the home—rooted in history and community—can be felt from the very spot where you now stand.

As you enjoy your refreshments, take a moment to appreciate the lasting beauty of this porch and its place in Mesta Park’s rich history. Whether you’re marveling at its classic architecture or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere of the tour, we’re delighted to share this special space with you.

629 NW 17th St

The Young Home
629 NW 17th Street: The Refreshment Porch

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Mesta Park Neighborhood Association is not an HOA, nor is it regulatory in nature, and dues are not mandatory. | Copyright © 2024 Mesta Park Neighborhood Association