Iconic Fort Worth Gem: Historic Bob R. Simpson Building Hits the Market – Ready for a Bold New Chapter!

The Bob R. Simpson Building, a crown jewel of Fort Worth's historic downtown, is officially up for sale. Nestled at 110 W. Seventh St., this 11-story marvel spans 101,390 square feet on a .23-acre lot. Marketed by JLL without a public price tag, its 2025 Tarrant Appraisal District valuation sits at $13.6 million, hinting at its premium appeal.

 

What makes this property a standout? Its downtown zoning opens doors to endless possibilities. Buyers could revamp it as modern offices, convert it into chic apartments, or transform it into a bustling hotel. JLL's Ryan Matthews notes, "The next owner can gut the interiors and reimagine it entirely – stick with offices or pivot to hospitality or residential vibes."

 

Built in 1910 for the First National Bank of Fort Worth, the tower boasts a rich history. Renovated in 2005 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, it was once called the Baker Building. Renamed in honor of Bob R. Simpson, former XTO Energy CEO and Texas Rangers co-owner, after XTO's 2003 purchase.

 

Exxon Mobil acquired XTO in 2010, using the space for offices until relocating 1,600 employees to Houston in 2017. Enter Icon Lodging in 2022, snapping it up with plans for a $33 million, 149-key Residence Inn. Construction was eyed for March 2024, and Icon's site still tags it as "under development."

 

This isn't just a building; it's a piece of Fort Worth's soul, blending timeless architecture with modern potential. Whether preserving its office heritage or flipping it into a vibrant residential or hospitality hub, the Simpson Building promises to redefine downtown's skyline. Visionary investors, this is your cue – seize a slice of history and shape its future.