Southern Pacific Passenger Depot    |    Wharton, Texas

The 1914 Southern Pacific Passenger Depot in Wharton, Texas is typical of depots constructed by the Southern Pacific Transportation Company in the first quarter of the 20th century. The Spanish-bungalow style depot features a distinctive clay tile roof and deep overhangs, as well as brick bearing walls and plaster detailing. Adhering to Texas Historical Commission guidelines, Stern and Bucek’s renovation addressed changes made to the depot by restoring its exterior and interior to the original appearance. Now used by the Colorado Valley Transit Authority as an office and central hub for local bus service, the restored depot also houses a train museum. The Railway Park, adjacent to the depot, was also restored to its original 1916 configuration. The project was funded and administered through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Transportation Enhancement Program.

• Adaptive Reuse
• Historic Preservation Award, Preservation Texas, 2010
  Honor Award, Renovation/Restoration, Houston Chapter AIA, 2008