News broke this week that an office building in Houston designed by I. M. Pei sold at a bankruptcy auction for $27 million. The 11-story building, completed in 1980, features a striking glass-enclosed atrium. TwentyFour25, its official name that refers to its numeral address along West Loop Street, is a 285,000-square-foot office building. For many years it housed department store Stage Stores, the retail conglomerate that owned now-shuttered brands such as Bealls, Goodys, Gordmans, Peebles, and Palais Royal. Positioned in the heart of Houstons premier retail district, TwentyFour25 is close to the Galleriathe largest mall in Texas. The surrounding area is more than just a retail paradise, over 2,000 companies and more than 11 percent of Houstons total office space are concentrated in the area.The Pei-designed commercial building filed for bankruptcy in December 2023. Hilco Real Estate Sales (HRE), was engaged by Galleria 2425 Trustee, Jones Murray, to manage the sale of the property. It was put up for auction in May with a tight bidding period that lasted just 30 days. In addition to its glass-enclosed atrium, TwentyFour25 boasts expansive windows with views out toward the Houston skyline. Building amenities include, a fitness center on-site cafe, and a multi-level parking garage.The building recently underwent renovations. In its listing HRE said the upgrades pay homage to Peis visionary work. They include the new fitness center and lounges, as well as new signage throughout and a revamped reception area and courtyard. La G Studio, a design and branding agency, was tapped to create a visual identity for it that aligns with the buildings architectural significance and its future purpose, whatever that may be.