HOUSTON | Development Thread II

[Owlhorn]

Word on the street is the Hines building is a go but someone leaked before they were ready to announce. I've been hearing a late 2012 groundbreaking with an early 2014 opening date set. It's the worst kept secret in town.

Also, while everyone is lamenting the potential loss of some jobs at Continental and Devon, people aren't mentioning that the Houston job market performed WAY better than predicted last year. Additionally, the big oil/energy companies are starting to hire. With the Gulf opening back up to drilling and the price of oil remaining around $100 a barrel, things should really start to pick up here in town.

And, I hate to rain on the Dallasite's parade, but our three brand new towers are starting off pretty damn well. The Hess Tower is 100% leased out. The building in the Pavilions is also 100% leased out to NRG (Reliant Energy). And, while the Hines tower isn't 100% leased, they did land two stellar tenants in KPMG (top floors) and BG Group (naming rights).

The time is right to start something now to take advantage of the future. The class A market in downtown is way too tight right now for someone to not make a play.

Lastly, word in Pine Shadows, where the head of Continental lives, is that the wife is flat out refusing to move to Chicago. Their house, which is just down the street from my parents' place is fully occupied and there's been no attempt to sell... Just sayin'

Why should that make Dallasites mad?

[TexasPlaya]

Why should that make Dallasites mad?

I think when you look at the context of the discussion, he was merely adding a response to a Dallasites' comments about how DT Houston is losing tenants.

[TexasPlaya]

Disney sailing out of Galveston will only help parking lot owners and those three guys who have service stations on Harborside at I-45... The GPD directs cars west onto Harborside, straight out of town.

You'd be surprised how many of these cruise going folks eat and check out Galveston before getting on the ship.

[c4smok]

Saw this posted up at TheHaif.com

Exxon HQ construction underway.. Aerial via Swamplot through unknown photographer

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/exxon-aerial-close.jpg

//Link
http://swamplot.com/aerial-views-of-exxonmobils-new-sprawling-top-secret-houston-headquarters/2011-04-15/#more-27794

fits into Springwoods plans..

http://www.springwoodsvillage.com/images/large/100920_Illustrative%20Plan_NO%20Corporate%20Campus%20Label.jpg

[JoninATX]

I'm confused so Exxon is building a campus right where Springwoods Village going?

[c4smok]

http://x.iil.li/modeximg.png

should give you a better idea =0

[JoninATX]

Ok, so Exxon is going to be north of Springwoods Village.

[weatherguru18]

I had the privilege of speaking with an Exxon media relations guy and I informed him of the arial photographs we had of the area. I asked him straight up if indeed Exxon was moving forward with an elaborate corporate campus. The gentleman said "I can tell you that site work continues at that location and all options are still on the table---that's anything from leaving things as is on one end to building a new corporate campus on the other. I replied to him, "but sir, there have been thousands of trees cleared from the area and clearly this is in the exact location of the planned corporate campus according to Springwoods Village. Site work requires the removal of thousands of trees?" He replied, a statement on the campus would be released "very soon" and that all he could confirm is that site work continues at that location. When I asked what "very soon" meant, whether it was days or weeks, he would not comment. So that's the latest from the horses mouth.

[Orlando]

Photos I took 2 days ago, now Im back in Arkansas, YAY


http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/mp4.jpg
That is how you do a parking garage.

What an amazing tower! Pickard Chilton does beautiful buildings!

Btw, this is the first time I've looked in the Houston thread, and I've just got to say that I am very impressed with all of the great strides that the city and the people are doing to make it a better city to live in. :tup:

[photoLith]

Saw this posted up at TheHaif.com

Exxon HQ construction underway.. Ariel via Swamplot through unknown photographer

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/exxon-aerial-close.jpg



Yuck yuck yuck, I thought we evolved past these giant suburban campuses.

[weatherguru18]

Yuck yuck yuck, I thought we evolved past these giant suburban campuses.

I can't understand why when big, elaborate projects happen in The Woodlands (or near The Woodlands), people are quick to criticize. But let it happen "Sugar Land" <nose in the air> and all of a sudden it's a bad ass project. If this was going up along the energy corridor, it would be applauded for being another large anchor in that area with fancy buildings, density, and 17,000 additional people to liven up the business. :hell:

[JoninATX]

If it's this top secret then I should expect a good design from the architects god I hope it's not a bunch of low rise buildings. Maybe we will see alot of
20+st. buildings clustered around the site.

[photoLith]

No it will probably be like the sears campus in suburban Chicago with one giant low rise building surrounded by a sea of parking yay.

[Trae]

No it will probably be like the sears campus in suburban Chicago with one giant low rise building surrounded by a sea of parking yay.

Not even close actually. You should look at what was posted on Swamplot. Exxon is going cheap with this campus.

[c4smok]

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/xom-campus-map.jpg

thats all I can find on swamplot.. does not really tell you a lot.

[Complex01]

Those trees are really tall. You would have to get some good height to even be able to see anything from 45. But yea yuck to removing all those trees for such a sprawling thing. Even thought it is in the middle of one of the worst sprawled out areas of the city...

[Rail Claimore]

No it will probably be like the sears campus in suburban Chicago with one giant low rise building surrounded by a sea of parking yay.

That's being too nice to Sears.

[Trae]

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/xom-campus-map.jpg

thats all I can find on swamplot.. does not really tell you a lot.

All of those "z" shapes are buildings surrounding the four larger white blocks, which are parking garages.

[JoninATX]

Looks like there will be 20 buildings plan for the site.

[nava]

when are the trees going up on hines place?

[weatherguru18]

It is very unlikely, imo, that any of these buildings will be more than 3 or 4 stories. If there are 20 buildings on site with 3 million sq. feet, that means all the buildings will average 150,000 sq. ft. Hardly enough sq. footage for a building of significant height.

[TexasPlaya]

Former Texaco building downtown may become 240 apartments (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/7530965.html)

Sounds like good news if it comes to fruition.

"EFO Holdings has preliminary plans for a residential building combined with some retail, Hassler said. About 240 units would fit in the historic structure and be part of the first phase of development, he said. The first phase is budgeted to cost about $70 million, he said."

[JoninATX]

Apartment Building Replacing Tavern on Gray Won’t Have Any Retail, But Really Wants To Hug the Street Anyway

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/hanover-w-gray-nw-view.jpg

Houston’s own Hanover Company wants to build this 5-story apartment complex on the current site of the Tavern on Gray, just east of the shopping district that extends along West Gray to Shepherd. And it’s hoping to get a variance from the planning commission that would allow the buildings to have smaller setbacks than current regulations allow: 15 ft. along Waugh (where 25 would otherwise be required) and just 5 ft.

http://swamplot.com/

[JoninATX]

Word is on haif that there are several cranes up at the Exxon campus.

http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/topic/23958-exxon/page__st__50

[glowrock]

I can't understand why when big, elaborate projects happen in The Woodlands (or near The Woodlands), people are quick to criticize. But let it happen "Sugar Land" <nose in the air> and all of a sudden it's a bad ass project. If this was going up along the energy corridor, it would be applauded for being another large anchor in that area with fancy buildings, density, and 17,000 additional people to liven up the business. :hell:

No, not at all. If this were in the energy corridor, the office campus would be made up of several 10-15 story towers with probably a nice greenspace/park area in between them, along with lots of additional apartment complexes surrounding the towers. Sure, the energy corridor is somewhat sprawly, but it's also relatively dense, both in terms of office space and number of people per square mile. Lots of apartment complexes, especially along Eldridge!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[TexasPlaya]

No, not at all. If this were in the energy corridor, the office campus would be made up of several 10-15 story towers with probably a nice greenspace/park area in between them, along with lots of additional apartment complexes surrounding the towers. Sure, the energy corridor is somewhat sprawly, but it's also relatively dense, both in terms of office space and number of people per square mile. Lots of apartment complexes, especially along Eldridge!

Aaron (Glowrock)

A lot of that stuff is being planned by a developer to be located directly south of Exxon campus. North Houston is going to really get a big boost from this.

http://x.iil.li/modeximg.png

[mfastx]

I hate to be such a Debbie Downer, but I don't really see what the big deal is about the new Exxon campus.

[TexasPlaya]

I hate to be such a Debbie Downer, but I don't really see what the big deal is about the new Exxon campus.

I didn't realize it was a "big deal". However, you aren't the least bit happy that out of other cities' suburbs, Houston was chosen by Exxon to be the location for consolidation? Well actually I don't think Exxon has officially announced anything. But it sure does look like they are planning something.

[glowrock]

The problem is, all it's really going to do is result in several empty Greenspoint towers, that's all... :(

After all, isn't Exxon the single largest tenant in the whole Greenspoint complex?

Aaron (Glowrock)

[TexasPlaya]

The problem is, all it's really going to do is result in several empty Greenspoint towers, that's all... :(

After all, isn't Exxon the single largest tenant in the whole Greenspoint complex?

Aaron (Glowrock)

Well it is true that those towers will become empty. Keep your fingers crossed that Houston's economy continues to improve, and those towers will be absorbed. Greenspoint may have lost some of its desirability due to the decline in the surrounding area but it still has very close proximity to the airport. Hopefully, the TIRZ they implemented in the area will make infrastructure improvements and clean it up. Also, a few of the buildings were converted to LEED status in order to compete in the office market.

[Shasta]

You aren't the only one. Exxon will be leaving Houston city limits and moving into an unincorporated area that used to be a native pine forest. The plans call for 3,000,000 square feet of office space in a sprawling campus that will pretty much require everyone who works there to drive to work.

If you're a young petroleum engineer right out of college, where would you rather work, Hess Tower downtown or Exxon's new campus?

[glowrock]

You aren't the only one. Exxon will be leaving Houston city limits and moving into an unincorporated area that used to be a native pine forest. The plans call for 3,000,000 square feet of office space in a sprawling campus that will pretty much require everyone who works there to drive to work.

If you're a young petroleum engineer right out of college, where would you rather work, Hess Tower downtown or Exxon's new campus?

I agree that it would be far better just to renovate their existing Greenspoint buildings, Shasta. But to answer your question about where would a recent graduate rather work, it's a tough one. Downtown's not exactly the first place most new graduates would prefer to live (lack of housing first of all, lack of nightlife and streetlife secondly), and The Woodlands actually has good housing (including some urban-style lofts and flats), and a very good amount of restaurants and shopping, much of it walkable from many of the newer apartments/lofts/flats.

But your point still stands.

Aaron (Glowrock)

[llamaorama]

Same old Houston cycle of new edge cities forming while others decline.

[AusHou]

Same old Houston cycle of new edge cities forming while others decline.

I'm not doubting you, but can you give some examples? I want to know which ones to avoid when eventually looking for a permanent place to live. What about Cinco Ranch? I hear great things about it and it's pretty much an edge city, so to speak. I'd rather live in the inner loop, of course, but I can see getting priced out easily.

[photoLith]

^
Go to city data forum to ask questions like that.

[llamaorama]

Cinco Ranch is very nice and full of larger houses.

My observation just comes from what has happened to places with more apartments, commercial centers, etc. Not traditional suburbs.

[N90]

Pleasure Pier in Galveston:
Landry’s is proposing a magnificent renovation of the Pier. The renovation will turn the property into a world-class destination such as the Navy Pier in Chicago, and the Santa Monica Pier in Malibu, CA, and many others throughout the country.

http://blog.galveston.com/what-to-do/coming-soon-galveston-island-historic-pleasure-pier/
http://blog.galveston.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pleasurepier4.jpg
http://blog.galveston.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pleasurepier3.jpg
http://blog.galveston.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pleasurepier2.jpg
http://blog.galveston.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/pleasurepier1.jpg

[photoLith]

That looks kick ass but they might want to change the name lol

[glowrock]

Looks nice, but how can Landry's ensure another hurricane won't toss it right back into the Gulf of Mexico?

Aaron (Glowrock)

[Metro Matt]

Looks nice, but how can Landry's ensure another hurricane won't toss it right back into the Gulf of Mexico?

Aaron (Glowrock)

Is anything in life for sure?

[glowrock]

No, nothing in life's for sure, but it IS a sure thing that Galveston will be hit by storms in the future. I'm not saying a nice pier complex isn't potentially feasible, but I think a LOT of work needs to be done to ensure as much as possible it doesn't end up falling into the Gulf of Mexico in even a mild to moderate hurricane.

Aaron (Glowrock)

[N90]

No, nothing in life's for sure, but it IS a sure thing that Galveston will be hit by storms in the future. I'm not saying a nice pier complex isn't potentially feasible, but I think a LOT of work needs to be done to ensure as much as possible it doesn't end up falling into the Gulf of Mexico in even a mild to moderate hurricane.

Aaron (Glowrock)
This is the wrong methodology.

With careful planning and structural engineering comes a masterpiece to last eons. It's what Japan and California have done for generations to build structures that can withstand the likes of Earthquakes. Galveston has recently started this trend as well, and Laundry's has already stated in the past that all his new developments will keep mold to it.

Have you heard of "Beach Town" in Galveston? It was recently built in the last 4-5 years and absolutely had zero damages to it by Hurricane Ike, where as other developments including the flagship hotel saw hell come and go. It's how it was designed to withstand wind damage, which is the most deadly part for these developments against a hurricane.

Careful planning and a big pocket book will help build sustainable developments for decades with minimal renovations necessary. This project happens to be one of those.

My only gripe with it is the lame name for it, my gosh sounds like some perverted child molesting joint rather than a amusement park pier.

[glowrock]

This is the wrong methodology.

With careful planning and structural engineering comes a masterpiece to last eons. It's what Japan and California have done for generations to build structures that can withstand the likes of Earthquakes. Galveston has recently started this trend as well, and Laundry's has already stated in the past that all his new developments will keep mold to it.

Have you heard of "Beach Town" in Galveston? It was recently built in the last 4-5 years and absolutely had zero damages to it by Hurricane Ike, where as other developments including the flagship hotel saw hell come and go. It's how it was designed to withstand wind damage, which is the most deadly part for these developments against a hurricane.

Careful planning and a big pocket book will help build sustainable developments for decades with minimal renovations necessary. This project happens to be one of those.

My only gripe with it is the lame name for it, my gosh sounds like some perverted child molesting joint rather than a amusement park pier.

Don't talk to me about poor methodology, N90. First of all, as I grew up in the L.A. area, I know all about piers and the damage that occasionally happens to them, either by unnatural causes (fires, please see Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara) or serious storms (Redondo Pier in Redondo Beach, just for one example). Again, I never once said it was an insurmountable issue, but damn it, Galveston can get some really nasty storms.

I personally love really cool pier-based entertainment venues. I think they are freaking awesome places in general. However, I think they're also extremely prone to severe issues with all manner of storms. It's a fact of life. :(

Aaron (Glowrock)

[N90]

The East End could soon have its own small museum district:
The other possible museum moves, the Metro rail line under construction along Harrisburg Boulevard, the management district's sidewalk improvements on major streets, and the district's vision for a trolley connecting the museums encouraged him to relocate to the East End, said Hernandez, who grew up on Canal Street.
Having several museums so close to each other would help make the area more of an entertainment district as well, said David Cook, a real estate broker with Cushman & Wakefield in Houston.
"It would be tremendous. It would be another magnet to bring people into this area," he said, noting that much interest is already being spurred by the development of the Dynamo stadium nearby.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/realestate/7540626.html
Navigation Boulevard Promenade in East End:
The district envisions more than just new sidewalks. A redesign of Navigation would include turning the street, which currently accommodates four lanes of traffic, into a more walkable space with only two lanes of traffic. The other lanes would be used to add parking and to expand the esplanade dividing the street into a plaza and park space with benches, gazebos, trees and kiosks.

http://blogs.chron.com/primeproperty/2011/04/street_makeovers_part_of_bigge.html
Don't talk to me about poor methodology, N90. First of all, as I grew up in the L.A. area, I know all about piers and the damage that occasionally happens to them, either by unnatural causes (fires, please see Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara) or serious storms (Redondo Pier in Redondo Beach, just for one example). Again, I never once said it was an insurmountable issue, but damn it, Galveston can get some really nasty storms.

I personally love really cool pier-based entertainment venues. I think they are freaking awesome places in general. However, I think they're also extremely prone to severe issues with all manner of storms. It's a fact of life. :(

Aaron (Glowrock)
Actually when I wrote "this is the wrong methodology" I didn't mean for it to sound so serious and rude. I apologize for that, I could have edited my post but the "this post has been edited by N90 with time table" is just an eye sore for me when scanning through older posts so I left it as is.

Internet communication shows no emotions, but I definitely didn't mean it to be in an abrasive tone haha. And what I meant to say was, I mean we're very common civilians and the ideas that we come up with "a hurricane will destroy it eventually because its on a pier in Galveston" are ideas that developers have already thought about before proposing their plans for these things. What I mean is, if they're going to pursue building something like his out there and knowing the history of the area, they'll do it cautiously or they'll do something to it to withstand. Pleasure Pier used to exist in Galveston decades ago but had to be torn down for another development or something, it was successful then being in the same island, it can do better now with advancement in technology to withstand natural disasters.

From what I understand personally, they need to scrap that name though, otherwise it looks great.

[N90]

Not much action this year it seems but for what its worth theres some stuff happening. 3 new things in Metro Houston.

http://assets.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/Clear-Lake-Hospital.jpg?v=1
Bay Area Houston Regional Medical Center Hospital Development:
Medistar Corp. is partnering with Surgical Development Partners to build the 248-bed Bay Area Regional Medical Center in Webster.

Read more: New hospital coming to Webster | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/04/29/new-hospital-coming-to-webster.html
New Office Building Development in The Woodlands:
The Woodlands Development Co. plans to break ground in four to six months on its next Class A office building following the recent Newfield Exploration Co. lease that fills the remainder of 4 Waterway Square

Read more: Newfield HQ move prompts new office development in The Woodlands | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/04/29/newfield-hq-move-prompts-new-office.html
http://assets.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/Millennium-Galleria.jpg?v=1
Dinerstein cracks Galleria area with first multifamily complex:
Dinerstein’s third Millennium-branded apartment project in the Houston area will rise at 2525 McCue, on the north side of the Galleria. The 237-unit complex is adjacent to the site of a 380,000-square-foot office building under development by Redstone Cos.

Read more: Dinerstein cracks Galleria area with first multifamily complex | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/04/29/dinerstein-cracks-galleria-area-with.html

[glowrock]

I like the article concerning the relocation of several museums to the East End. I agree with the tone of the article, hopefully that will help to revitalize the entire area! :yes:

Also, it appears that the new apartment complex on McCue Rd. is the site of the old 60's or 50's garden-style apartment complex literally across the street from the Residence Inn on McCue. Nice to see another nice complex enter the area. Too bad I'm sure it will be priced so high as to keep it out of reach for the majority of Houstonians... :(

Aaron (Glowrock)

[AusHou]

I like the design of the McCue complex.

[N90]

Not in the city of Houston but in Metro Houston.

http://www.shsu.edu/~masterplan/images/masterplanillustration.jpg
Sam Houston State University Master Plan:
The 6-Year Phasing Plan was designed to follow this last approach.
It is an aggressive strategy that will allow SHSU to achieve several
important goals:
1. Begin to make up for current deficiencies in laboratory,
classroom, and office space and accommodate the increased
student population expected by 2014.
2. Continue to house 20 percent of students on campus, which
accommodates the required on-campus freshmen and a small
percentage of upper classmen.
3. Build a new south plant that will be necessary before any
additional academic buildings are constructed in the south
quadrant of campus.
4. Balance parking needs that will increase due to rising enrollment
and loss of surface parking lots to new building construction.

http://www.shsu.edu/~masterplan/documents/SHSUTechnicalReport-HighQualityPrint.pdf
TMK IPSCO to build Houston R&D center:
TMK IPSCO will hold a groundbreaking ceremony May 3 for a new 51,000-square-foot research and development facility to be built near the Sam Houston Tollway in northwest Houston.
A company spokeswoman said the facility would open by the late fall of 2011.


Read more: TMK IPSCO to build Houston R&D center | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2011/05/02/tmk-ipsco-to-build-houston-rd-center.html
http://images.loopnet.com/xnet/mainsite/attachments/viewImage.aspx?FileGuid=31E1C2A8-12B7-4BA0-A399-B89BC2B8C497&Extension=jpg&Width=631&Height=421
Scouts Square Midtown:
Scouts Square is Midtown's newest development. 1911 Bagby will consist of a basement bar/club, 1st floor Moor's Restaurant, 2nd floor banquet space and 3 floor office. Unique opportunity to build to suit your specifications located on 3rd floor. Est 10,000 sqft and can be divisble. Across the street will be 10,000 sqft restaurant, Blackfinn American Saloon, and a parking garage directly above.

http://www.loopnet.com/Listing/17061521/1911-Bagby-Houston-TX/

Midtown Scout Square Property - Dr. Lucky Chopra with Deccan Development is renovating the historic Boy Scouts Building in Midtown and Repurposing it into a mixed-use building which will inlclude club space and restaurant space as well as banquet and/or conference center and office space. The building will feature a 3-story wine tower & waterfall integrating three entertainment floors destined to be a one-stop destination for fun, food, and music. The project has great visibility from the Pierce elevate and is expected to transform the Midtown skyline. Expected completion is September 2011.

http://002mag.com/wordpress/digital-edition/

[photoLith]

Wow, I always thought Sam Houston was a podunk university, looks like its really trying to change.

[N90]

http://innerlooped.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/post.jpg
POST MIDTOWN PHASE III:
The Company today announced the development of Phase III of its Post Midtown Square apartment community in Houston, TX. Post Midtown Square® – Phase III is planned to consist of 124 apartment units with an average unit size of approximately 889 square feet and approximately 10,864 square feet of street-level retail space, and is expected to have a total estimated development cost of approximately $21.8 million.

http://innerlooped.com/809/post-midtown-phase-iii/

[CALMSP]

very happy that they will be having retail on teh bottom floor. I wish the city had more streets like it has along Gray by these apartments...has a sorta east coast/european feel to it.

[N90]

Nothing much going on this week either, just a few things here and there for this week. But hey infill is infill right? Anything, and I mean anything beats parking lots.

http://www.bisnow.com/archives/houstonre/2011/Q2/images/amazingspaces.jpg
6 Story Mixed Use Building & 4 Story Mixed Use Bulding:
EE Reed is constructing a multi-level self-storage facility at Holcombe and Morningside. Amazing Spaces will consist of two parts, a six-story 112k SF building and a four-story 30k SF building. Edgecomb & Associates designed the facility, which will have a 1,700 SF wine storage area. Construction began this month and will take about one year.

http://www.bisnow.com/houston_commercial_real_estate_news_story.php?p=14370
http://www.bisnow.com/archives/houstonre/2011/Q2/images/cc3closeuprendering.jpg
City Centre- 2 Duel Office Towers:
CityCentre’s rockin’ and rollin’. The mixed-use complex reached 100% occupancy in its office space and an average of 95% of its residential space is leased. Plus, it’s adding more residential units for sale and a new dual office tower is in the works

http://www.bisnow.com/houston_commercial_real_estate_news_story.php?p=14343
Saved the best one for last.
http://www.bisnow.com/archives/houstonre/2011/Q2/images/westave.jpg
West Ave Phase II ready for start:
On the residential side, leasing specialist Michelle Kluge says the units are 92% occupied and Gables is granting no concessions (you heard us). Another impressive stat: West Ave has 77 different floor plans. (You'll have to start now if you want to live in all of them.) Phase II of the project is set to break ground in January on the fenced area behind the garage. It’ll add 270 multifamily units and 150 parking spaces for retail. But that’s not all—Gables also has Phase III planned out. It’ll take up everything but the NW corner (where townhomes are) of the Kirby/Alabama/Virginia block. Included are 350 multifamily units, a 175-key hotel, a 100k SF of office, and an additional 275k SF of retail.

http://www.bisnow.com/houston_commercial_real_estate_news_story.php?p=14798

More concept maps for West Ave, Phase II & Phase III have been switched in order, Phase II is now the initial Phase III plan on this map and Phase III is now the initial Phase II on this map. All credit for visuals go to HAIF member lockmat.
http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/topic/4312-kirby-westheimer/page__view__findpost__p__365582
http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/gallery/1248088767/gallery_723_64_109506.jpg

[JoninATX]

I always say anything beats nothing weather it's storage facility or just townhomes I'm just glad thing are progressing. Glad to hear that the 2nd phase of West Ave is moving forward, it's going to create alot of density in that area.

[N90]

Oh yeah I forgot about one more, my family lives in Sugar Land so if this is a success it might be on their radar but I forgot about adding this in the last post compilation.

Sugar Land concert venue plan:
The building of a new concert and performing arts venue in Sugar Land is one step closer to becoming reality. The site proposed is near the intersection of Highway 59 and University and within the commercial grounds of Telfair, one of Newland Communities' cash cows.

The city expects to purchase a 95-acre site from Newland and turn it into a multi-use environment centered around arts and entertainment.

http://houston.culturemap.com/newsdetail/05-11-11-money-for-nothing-stafford-centre-limited-use-raises-questions-about-the-sugar-land-concert-venue-plan/

[photoLith]

I went to that west ave development a few months ago and it's actually really nice and the quality of the materials used is high. It almost makes that area along with that Kirby tower, feel like NYC.... almost.

[Rail Claimore]

Houston is really starting to turn into Los Angeles, at least good chunks of it.

[TexasBoi]

Got this from HAIF

http://www.bisnow.com/houston_commercial_real_estate_news_story.php?p=14834

In other area news, the former Houston Ballet building on West Gray, which Dave helped sell to Novare in ’09 went back to the bank and resold to multifamily developer Slosberg. (Again with Dave and Jeff’s help…seeing a trend?) Marvy Finger’s currently developing 10.3 acres at Waugh and W. Dallas (C&W represented AIG in selling the land to Marvy), and Regent Square is set to break ground next year. That project will include 400k SF of retail and restaurants, 240k SF of office, 1,000 apartment units, and 500 condos. Washington Heights breaks ground this year, and there’s a Kroger planned at Studemont and I-10. And last but not least, a tract at Sawyer and Washington recently sold to a multifamily developer. Catch all that?"


I know the multifamily market is doing pretty good in Houston right now but damn. The amount of units proposed and even under construction right now is amazing. I really really hope Regent Square gets off the ground. My favorite development in Houston and that's saying something as I like West Ave alot as well.

[glowrock]

I went to that west ave development a few months ago and it's actually really nice and the quality of the materials used is high. It almost makes that area along with that Kirby tower, feel like NYC.... almost.

Yeah, the Kirby/Westheimer development is pretty sweet, no doubt about it. Between the already-completed Phase I, along with Phases II and III, that entire area is going to be really, really awesome! Love the fact you've got five levels of apartments on top of 2 levels of retail space. Not your average 4 story "midrise" apartment complex, that's for sure!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[N90]

I like this redevelopment of an old building, more residential coming to downtown. Awesome.

Man I'm just relieved they aren't tear down another building in downtown because its old and vacant, those normally turn into a parking lot which is the enemy here folks! Houston needs to declare an all out war against parking lots, especially near the George R. Brown Convention Center!!

http://assets.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/111-Rusk.jpg?v=1
Texaco Building conversion to residential apartments downtown:
EFO Holdings Inc., is planning to purchase the 96-year-old building at 1111 Rusk and convert it into as many as 360 high-end apartment units.

The first phase of development, which has a $75 million price tag, calls for the construction of 240 units in the original structure, as well as commercial and retail

Read more: EFO Residential to transform 1111 Rusk into luxury apartment complex | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/05/13/efo-residential-to-transform-1111-rusk.html

Oh and two other things:

Houston attracts a headquarters from Florida for key oil & gas player:
PVI Holdings, a U.S. wing of Dutch trading company Pon Holdings BV, is moving its Jacksonville, Fla., headquarters to Houston, said Jack Guidry, president and CEO of PVI.

Read more: Key oil & gas player moves to Houston | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/05/13/key-oil-gas-player-moves-to-houston.html

Houston's real estate market much stronger then past months:
April foreclosure filings were down 27 percent in the Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown metropolitan area from a year ago, RealtyTrac Inc. reported Thursday.

Read more: Houston foreclosures dip, report says | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/morning_call/2011/05/houston-foreclosures-dip-report-says.html

Sweet news if I had to say so myself, with the housing market rebounding and the economy kicking off stronger than ever since 2007, its starting to look bright for Houston again (In terms of prospective developments).

Prospective strong growth:
Growth impacts every aspect of government and results in huge opportunities for government contractors. Transportation, technology, construction, engineering and professional services are just a few of the categories with abundant contracting opportunities

Read more: State’s continued growth means more contract opportunities | Houston Business Journal
http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/05/13/states-continued-growth-means-more.html

[JoninATX]

The cranes are flying over Exxon moblie....

http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/files/2011/05/Exxon1.jpg

http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/files/2011/05/Exxon1.jpg

[TexasPlaya]

From HAIF:

Two HISD campuses in the 4th Ward: Carnegie Vanguard High School and Gregory Lincoln School
http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/gallery/1248088767/gallery_723_64_30419.jpg

http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/gallery/1248088767/gallery_723_64_43774.jpg

http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/gallery/1248088767/gallery_723_64_68717.jpg

http://www.rdlr.com/images/proj975.jpg

This will be built on what is a former vacant lot. I believe this is great news for this area but it will certainly change some of the dynamic of the area.

[Michi]

For anyone who likes to use their imagination, now's a good time to venture up Main Street past UH Downtown, up near the freight rail grade separation. It appears as though the foundation to the light rail fly-overs are being constructed. Burnett Station (the intermodal transit hub) will be located here and will be a significant component of the LRT network in Houston:

http://www.houstontx.gov/planning/_urban/TransitCorridorStreet_NorthCorridor_090209.pdf

I've seen renderings of the rail, but have yet to find any online.

http://www.eekarchitects.com/portfolio/9-transportation-infrastructure/57-houston-northern-intermodal-facility

I can't say for sure what's being done at this time, so maybe someone more familiar with the progress can chime in.

[NYC2ATX]

The Houston Northern Intermodal Facility is GENIUS. Love the design, love the concept, and I had no idea that such a plan was even in the works! Way to be the up-and-coming number-four city after NY, LA and Chicago!

[photoLith]

I like this redevelopment of an old building, more residential coming to downtown. Awesome.

http://assets.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/111-Rusk.jpg?v=1
Texaco Building conversion to residential apartments downtown:

http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/05/13/efo-residential-to-transform-1111-rusk.html

http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/05/13/states-continued-growth-means-more.html

Its about flippin time, those buildings have been abandoned since the 70s about. They are beautiful and will make amazing apartments or condos, I just hope this really happens. And what is with that glass building? Thats just a parking lot now, are they also building a new highrise along with restoring the historic buildings or is that just wishful thinking?



Oh, and Im back in town folks, out of hell hole Arkansas finally for good I hope!!!!!

[mfastx]

The Houston Northern Intermodal Facility is GENIUS. Love the design, love the concept, and I had no idea that such a plan was even in the works! Way to be the up-and-coming number-four city after NY, LA and Chicago!

Hate to break it to you, but its not happening (http://innerlooped.com/510/intermodal-terminal-no-more/). Anytime soon, at least.

[photoLith]

Well thats just freakin great but expected, this is Houston after all and we hate public transportation.

[weatherguru18]

Yeah, this project has long since been cancelled.

[TexasBoi]

Well thats just freakin great but expected, this is Houston after all and we hate public transportation.

Honestly, I read that article a few months ago and came away with blaming Metro's bad leadership and irresponsibility than Houston's disdain for public transportation. That's me though.

[glowrock]

Oh, and Im back in town folks, out of hell hole Arkansas finally for good I hope!!!!!

Too bad I never had a chance to meet up with you, dude... Now that I'm in Pittsburgh, I guess it will just have to wait until I'm back in Houston for some sort of training class, which will likely be sooner than later! :)

Anyhow, great news on the conversion of that old tower into apartments!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[N90]

Thats just a parking lot now, are they also building a new highrise along with restoring the historic buildings or is that just wishful thinking?
It's their Phase II, they will construct a new residential tower for 120 units, with parking on the first several floors and the apartment units above it, sort of Chicago style like that.

But Phase II is still a good 2 years away at least from happening because of the long redevelopment work on Phase I for the next year.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/7530965.html

[Michi]

The Intermodal may be on hold, but I do believe the LRT expansion is on its way with Burnett Station and an elevated Main Street Bypass.

http://houstontx.city.swagit.com/Council_Commissions/

Click on "Video" for April 28, then click on the Play button for Item III. Scroll to the 7 minute mark for the reclassification proposal for Burnett Street.

[photoLith]

Too bad I never had a chance to meet up with you, dude... Now that I'm in Pittsburgh, I guess it will just have to wait until I'm back in Houston for some sort of training class, which will likely be sooner than later! :)

Anyhow, great news on the conversion of that old tower into apartments!

Aaron (Glowrock)

I will most likely get a job here in Houston and work out on the oil rigs. But, as I understand it, you can work on the rigs and pretty much live anywhere. If thats the case, I would love to live in New Orleans. But if not, Ill chose the Houston Heights or around that area to live. If you do come back send me a message or something and well go shoot downtown or wherever.

[glowrock]

I will most likely get a job here in Houston and work out on the oil rigs. But, as I understand it, you can work on the rigs and pretty much live anywhere. If thats the case, I would love to live in New Orleans. But if not, Ill chose the Houston Heights or around that area to live. If you do come back send me a message or something and well go shoot downtown or wherever.

I take it you're looking for work as a mudlogger, at least for now? If not, there's no reason why you couldn't actually work as an analyst of some sort in an office, unless you just WANT to work in the great outdoors! :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

[N90]

Buffalo Lakes Mixed Use:
http://www.kirksey.com/files/project/images/project-image-1304978641.897138494.jpg
http://www.kirksey.com/files/project/images/project-image-1304978647.1164994929.jpg
Project Information: http://www.kirksey.com/project/buffalo_lakes_master_plan

Page 10 of METRO's Powerpoint Slide: http://www.ridemetro.org/ProjectsPrograms/PDFs/90A_Media_Briefing_020711.pdf

[llamaorama]

So there will light rail along Bellfort down to 90 and out to Missouri City by 2018 or so? Cool. Buffalo Lakes looks like its under construction based on the most recent Google Earth imagery from March 2011. They will have a wait a little while, probably hoping Metro follows through otherwise they'd be a TOD without the T.

I used to have family members living around that area when I was younger and my mom went to Westbury HS. I'm sure a transit line that way would do well, lots of people living in apartment complexes in that area who would benefit from transit, as they do now with routes on Fondren and Airport having the big articulated buses filled with passengers already

[TexasPlaya]

Wow this is very ambitious. I want to say pipe dream but this could turn out to be a very good location, especially if the rail comes to fruition.

[photoLith]

I take it you're looking for work as a mudlogger, at least for now? If not, there's no reason why you couldn't actually work as an analyst of some sort in an office, unless you just WANT to work in the great outdoors! :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

I would like to work as a mudlogger, mainly because I would go crazy in an office and I get almost half the year off to do whatever I want when Im a mudlogger.

Oh, and I was downtown today and in the Woodlands yesterday, Ill post some update pics tomorrow.

[N90]

Lots of news for today. In order from most boring project to most fun.

Sims Bayou Project- 4 Bridges: (Starting up)
http://www.hcfcd.org/simsbridges/images/simsbridgesMAP.gif
HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT PREPARES FOR LAST PHASE OF SIMS BAYOU PROJECT
"Motorists are Advised of Upcoming Bridge Closures and Traffic Detours Associated with Bridge Construction in Southwest Houston"

HOUSTON - The Harris County Flood Control District will begin construction on the first of the final four roadway bridges associated with the $379 million Sims Bayou Federal Flood Damage Reduction Project at the first of next month. The four roadway bridges cross Sims Bayou at Heatherbrook Drive, Croquet Street, South Post Oak Road and Hiram Clarke Road in southwest Houston. The bridges will be reconstructed in that order.

The project also consists of the modification/replacement of 20 roadway bridges, of which 16 are complete. Construction of the remaining four bridges marks the final phase of the project, which launched in 1990 and is scheduled for completion in late 2012. From the onset of this project, the Flood Control District, as the local sponsor, has been responsible for property acquisition, utility relocation and the modification/replacement of the bridges that cross Sims Bayou.

http://www.hcfcd.org/simsbridges/
Whole Foods in Katy: (Starting up)
http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/files/2011/05/WholeFoods.jpg
Whole Foods is in negotiations to put a 30,000 square-foot store at the corner of Grand Parkway and Fry Road, sources say.

The store would be across from a large H-E-B but the sources say the deal makes sense because of the area’s large population of high-income households.

http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/2011/05/montrose-whole-foods-to-open-next-month-expansion-rumored/

Menninger Clinic: (Under Construction) http://www.kirksey.com/project/menninger_clinic
http://www.kirksey.com/files/project/images/project-image-1292884071.107784976.jpg
Menninger, which relocated from Kansas to Houston in 2003, officially broke ground on the new complex near the Medical Center in November. But it waited until March 10 to hold a formal groundbreaking ceremony because the clinic’s directors are in town for the board’s annual meeting.

When Menninger announced the project in 2007, it planned to spend more than $100 million to build a 144-bed, 209,500-square-foot complex. But the global recession hampered the institution’s fundraising efforts. The clinic scaled back its plans to a $65 million, 120-bed, 161,000-square-foot complex that will be called The Menninger Mental Health Epicenter.

http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/print-edition/2011/03/11/menningers-new-clinic-scaled-down.html
River Oaks District: (Back on development plans)
http://www.pappageorgehaymes.com/images/properties/high-rise/TheRiverOaks/image-2.jpg
In Houston, OliverMcMillan is also restarting its River Oaks District project. The project is anticipated to have approximately 250,000 square feet of new retail space, 50 luxury apartments developed in one phase. The $350 million project is expected to begin opening in spring 2014.

“We were well into the planning process before the downturn and had 700 apartments existing at the site that carried the project during the downturn,” says Oliver.

The apartment project had cash flow, enabling OliverMcMillan to sit on the rest of the development.

http://www.shoppingcenterbusiness.com/articles/MAY11/story1.shtml
For a video and presentation of what River Oaks District is supposed to look like and entail: http://www.olivermcmillan.com/riveroaks
Wow this is very ambitious. I want to say pipe dream but this could turn out to be a very good location, especially if the rail comes to fruition.
Haha well pipe dreams don't start on construction, this has already started on its construction. According to Google Maps and to METRO who is trying to build in or around this development.

It's not the most visually impressive project but infill is infill. My only concern is that they plant some tree lined areas in this project.

[photoLith]

Heres some newly completed projects and the new park/underground entrance to the Municipal Towers over by the county courthouse.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e10.jpg
This is actually that older tower down in TMC that they are tearing down. What a shame.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e.jpg
Damn, this is one sexy building!

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e4.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e5.jpg
The still being restored county courthouse. It sure is taking them forever.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e2.jpg
This is the base of The Texaco Building, the one they are turning into condos or whatever. I looked in the windows and a lady was sitting at a desk way back in the corner of the giant abandoned lobby. Looked like a plumbing van was in the back or something.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e6.jpg
That new park going in at the Municipal Courts.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e8.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e1.jpg
The building on the bottom left in The Medical Center isnt new, it was finished a couple years ago but I never saw anyone take any photos of it after completion.


And some new stuff in The Woodlands.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w84.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w74.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w71-1.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w77.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w30-1.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/w25-1.jpg

[TexasPlaya]

Sweet. Thanks for the pics

[weatherguru18]

Expecting a press release from the Mayor's office about big news regarding Terminal B at IAH. Could be complete reconstruction.

[Complex01]

I love Main Place. It is one sexy tower. I think its my favorite building in Houston now...

:cool:

[elwin514]

Houston is always doing its thing. I love Houston. I do wish NOLA would have high-rise towers in downtown.

[glowrock]

Main Place (BG Group Place?) reminds me of an enormous Bic Lighter! :D But yes, it's one hell of a nice tower! :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

[photoLith]

^
How are you liking your new home?

[glowrock]

^
How are you liking your new home?

I'm liking it quite a lot! :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

[Michi]

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/e.jpg
Main Place is Houston's Trump Tower. Why? Because it has a giant comb-over! :)

[weatherguru18]

Got a press release at work tonight saying that the Mayor's office will announce a $1 BILLION DOLLAR renovation to terminal B at IAH. I can't give out any more info. until tomorrow.

[CALMSP]

Got a press release at work tonight saying that the Mayor's office will announce a $1 BILLION DOLLAR renovation to terminal B at IAH. I can't give out any more info. until tomorrow.

its out..........but this has been news for the last 2 years.

[Shasta]

Courtesy of the Houston Business Journal-

http://assets.bizjournals.com/houston/news/Bridgewood%20Rendering.jpg?v=1

The Village of Meyerland
4141 North Braeswood
120 units of senior living
August 2012 opening

Also, there are very strong rumors that two different developers are looking at downtown (not Midtown but DOWNTOWN proper) Houston apartment projects to build off of the success of One Park Place. Overall, the downtown market has a 91% occupancy rate and rental rates have increased 3% over the last quarter. Both are from the ground-up projects so they aren't the recently leaked rehab of the old Texas Company Buildings.

[NYC2ATX]

Yeah, this project has long since been cancelled.

Sad day :( It would've been a fantastic project, but I'm sure other great things will come down the pipeline in time :tup:

[Bailey]

Courtesy of the Houston Business Journal-

Also, there are very strong rumors that two different developers are looking at downtown (not Midtown but DOWNTOWN proper) Houston apartment projects to build off of the success of One Park Place. Overall, the downtown market has a 91% occupancy rate and rental rates have increased 3% over the last quarter. Both are from the ground-up projects so they aren't the recently leaked rehab of the old Texas Company Buildings.



Waht else have you heard about this. By downtown do you mean actual downtown or are you including teh area near the new dynamo stadium?

[TexasPlaya]

Hooray for senior living!

[photoLith]

Photos from a few days ago.

West Ave. development is pretty much done, and phase 2 is a long way off still but the developer told me it would get started this year.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f78.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f76.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f65.jpg

This isnt really a development, but a tear down that I had no idea was happening. Its that old 60sish building across from the Hyatt Hotel downtown. Brookfield is tearing it down and replacing it with a "landscaped" fucking parking lot, so thats just amazing.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/ff.jpg

MainPlace adding to the canyon and it looks like the long abandoned Wilson building is finally getting restored...
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f5.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f7.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f1-1.jpg

Market Squares been done for a while but didnt see anyone on here say much about it.
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f43.jpg

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f6.jpg
Niko Nikos is delicious and a surprising amount of people were eating there at 9 on a Thursday night.

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f54.jpg

And I never knew this existed either, is it new? Doesnt look like it but I had just never seen this hotel before.
http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/d.jpg

[Golyadkin]

The hotel being demolished in downtown is the Sheraton-Lincoln. It was famous for being the place The Beatles always stayed at when they came to town.
The owners of the building right next door bought it so they could demolish it to use the underground parking garage and open up the view on that side for their tenants.
Here's twp swamplot articles on the demo:
http://swamplot.com/former-downtown-sheraton-lincoln-hotel-disappearing-from-above/2011-03-21/
http://swamplot.com/old-sheraton-lincoln-hotel-to-be-torn-down-for-the-views-and-parking-spots/2010-09-23/

And if the source I talked to three weeks ago was correct, BLVD Place should be breaking ground on the Uptown Whole Foods this coming month.

[weatherguru18]

Waterway 3 in The Woodlands has been approved and set for construction. The office building will be 9-stories and have approximately 200,000 sq. ft. Date of construction is not set but architects are currently working on the project.

http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/spring/news/article_c1eefd9d-01f9-57e7-8aa1-65eb85832430.html

[Austinlee]

http://i1117.photobucket.com/albums/k591/birdboy1/f1-1.jpg

Amazing photo Lith! You took that one?

The lightrail train just makes that photo from good to great.

[Austinlee]

The cranes are flying over Exxon moblie....

http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/files/2011/05/Exxon1.jpg

http://blog.chron.com/primeproperty/files/2011/05/Exxon1.jpg

What's this gonna be?? Anything good? I just looked over all the projects on page 1 of this thread but I couldn't find it.

[photoLith]

Amazing photo Lith! You took that one?

The lightrail train just makes that photo from good to great.

Sure did and thanks, I take all the photos that I post on ssp. I have a video I made also...

URgRUvlhR8A

And no, thats not really anything good, the Exxon Mobile Campus is going to look a lot like Sears shitty suburban campus in Chicago once they moved out of the Sears Tower. But, nearby there is a new semi urban residential development going in.

[Golyadkin]

What's this gonna be?? Anything good? I just looked over all the projects on page 1 of this thread but I couldn't find it.
That's going to be the new huge campus for Exxon Mobil.
http://swamplot.com/a-first-look-at-the-plans-for-exxonmobils-humongous-new-corporate-campus-north-of-houston/2011-03-17/
http://swamplot.com/exxonmobils-top-secret-new-corporate-campus-now-hiding-in-plain-sight-on-google-maps/2011-05-05/