Building History

The Law Offices of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels & Friend are located in the historic Dickson and Siewerssen Building at 800 Commerce Street. Part of Houston's original Produce Row along Buffalo Bayou, the building served as the original Hogan-Allnoch Dry Goods store and warehouse. Purchased by the law firm's partners in 1970, the building was renovated for office space close to the downtown courthouses and as a part of a revitalization effort in Houston.

The structure was completely gutted and only the original brick masonry, heavily timbered second floor and oak ceiling rafters remained. In keeping with an early Texas federal style, the architectural group of Crain, Anderson and Reynolds designed the striking interiors, including 22-foot ceilings and majestic doors made of Honduras mahogany crowned with a lone star. The firm moved its offices into the building in January 1975.

The renovation efforts received high acclaim and were recognized by the Houston Municipal Arts Commission and the Houston Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.