Party Pad Up for Grabs: Magnificent Houston Megamansion Heads to Auction – Realtor.com News

(Realtor.com)
One of Houston‘s most iconic socialite couples, John Thrash and Becca Cason Thrash, are auctioning off their lavish home later this month. It marks the first time the expansive estate has been up for sale.
John Thrash is the CEO of energy company eCORP International, while his wife is well known for her philanthropic work and knack for throwing a showstopping soiree.
Indeed, almost as esteemed as the custom home itself, is the impressive roster of A-listers who have visited the party pad over the years.
From George Clooney and Anna Wintour to Presidents George H.W. Bush and Barack Obama, the guest lists for the Thrash’s legendary fundraising events have included some of the the biggest names in Hollywood, sports, and politics.
In 1994, the Thrash family purchased the opulent, 18,113-square-foot residence, which was constructed in 1965.
“The house was originally built by architect Preston Bolton, and when [the Thrashes] purchased the property, they did a full reimagination and tripled its size,” says listing agent Jay Monroe, of Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty – Central Houston Brokerage. “It still has a Mexican hacienda-brick feel, combined with a modern, black-steel and glass addition.”
(Realtor.com)
(Realtor.com)
The home is set for a “no-reserve” auction. The listing’s guide price is set at $19.5 million.
“We are starting to see more types of auctions, because it eliminates long wait times for sales,” Monroe says. “The couple who own the house live part-time in Paris and are big philanthropists. … Business has taken them to Europe now, which is why they have decided to sell.”
(Realtor.com)
(Realtor.com)
The contemporary home’s layout was created for large-scale parties.
An enormous kitchen has enough space for caterers; and a dramatic, open dining room has exposed-brick walls and a glass, atrium-like ceiling.
Despite all the glass and light, the showpiece home’s setting is “super private” and “very secluded,” Monroe notes.
“Even though the house is 18,000 square feet, it does not have a lot of rooms,” he says. “There are a lot of expansive, open spaces inside.”
(Realtor.com)
(Realtor.com)
Offering a nod to the designs of I.M. Pei, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the massive home’s stylish interior features granite, slate, oak, and expanses of glass, according to the listing.
Wood-coffered ceilings, seven fireplaces, numerous built-ins, and even a 44-foot pool are all part of the standout space.
(Realtor.com)
(Realtor.com)
An astonishing, two-story primary suite features a built-in bed, enormous walk-in closets, and multiple levels from which to enjoy pristine views of the private backyard. And for anyone who fears heights, the floor might be a bit daunting.
“One of the most interesting features is the superstrong, glass floor in the primary suite,” Monroe says.
Located on 3.6 acres, the property also boasts a separate guesthouse.
Bidding in the no-reserve auction is scheduled from May 18-23, via Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions’ online marketplace, allowing buyers from around the world to participate remotely.
Kellie Speed has more than 20 years' experience writing for a variety of publications, including Haute Living, U.S. Veterans magazine, DiverseAbility, and JustLuxe. She can be reached at kkspeed@aol.com.

source