The Turney Home was designed by one of the Southwest’s most sought-after architects, Henry C. Trost. Trost worked in the early 1900s, designing over 300 buildings through his architecture firm Trost and Trost. He did the majority of his work in El Paso, creating iconic landmarks like El Paso High School and the Paso del Norte Hotel. In 1908, the Turney’s hired Trost to design their home. Trost was known for his ability to blend different styles into a single project, which was perfect for clients like the Turneys. The Turney Home was a custom design by Trost; it reflected their eclectic taste, including styles such as the Neo-Classical Greek Revival columns, Art Deco stained glass, and the Victorian staircase. .

William Ward Turney (1861-1939) was born in Marshall, TX. He worked as an attorney & cattleman before serving as a Texas House Representative (1893-97) and later a state Senator (1897-1903.) He would continue practicing law in El Paso.

Iva Guthrie Turney (1872-1960) was born in Sweet Home, Lavaca, TX. She was a school teacher before her marriage in 1892. Iva continued to manage her family's cattle ranch until her death.