About the Hemi Hideout
Seven miles west of the outskirts of Houston lies Texas' best kept secret, John Hovas' Hemi Hideout. The Hemi Hideout is a 21,700 sq. ft. Heavy Timberframe, scissor arched masterpiece that is the largest of its type in Texas. It's octagon shaped copula rises to a height of 54 feet. The Amish inspired structure uses mortise and tenon joinery and all timber pieces are secured with oak dowels, eliminating the need for bolts, nails or glue. The massive building incorporated many environmentally friendly features. All of the Douglas Fir timber was harvested from sustainable forests. R-38 rated structural insulated panels were used for the walls and roof, and geothermal heating and air-conditioning, make this building extremely energy efficient.
The Hemi Hideout is a direct reflection of a lifelong dream fulfilled by owner John Hovas. It all started at age 16, with his love for the Dodge and Plymouth muscle cars of the 1960's and early 70's. Today, the venue is filled with 24 of the most desirable Mopars on earth, Icons from an era of Rock'n'Roll. Over 600 vintage porcelain and neon signs, all from days gone by, that date back as far as the early 1900's. Also featured in the venue, are many various pieces of memorabilia, antique tractors and motorcycles, all restored to their original factory glory.
“Never stop chasing a Dream”
-John Hovas
This Texas sized mancave, is complete with a 1950's style diner, soda fountain and state of the art kitchen. There is a beautifully appointed , large yet cozy, living area with a grand fireplace. There are six large screen TV's, strategically located throughout the facility, both inside and outdoors to enjoy. Throughout the building there is a current line array sound system, second to none, complete with staging for live entertainment. Outside there is a large outdoor Bar-B-Que pavilion, complete with a western style bar and an outdoor fireplace.
Surrounding this outstanding structure and all of its unique interior features, is a professionally designed and beautifully appointed landscape scheme. Large mature pecan and weeping willow trees, and a multi leveled water feature, set the tone around the Hemi Hideout. The water feature is filled with many different varieties of fish, frogs, water lilies and exotic bog plants from around the world. The Hemi Hideout is certainly a dream come true!
A very special honorable mention to three individuals in particular, for their tireless efforts and the pursuit of perfection during the entire construction of this project.
Bill Seitz – Project coordinator / artistic contributions
Don Looney – Structural and landscape architecture
Shelly Gates – Interior and
exterior decorating
