Houston-based real estate firms Lionstone Investments and Hanover Co. have teamed up and reimagined mixed use in a new development called Autry Park on approximately 14 acres at the western edge of the city’s Buffalo Bayou Park.
The three-phase master plan for the urban village will include five towers with 1,450 residential units, 350,000 square feet of Class A office space, and 100,000 square feet of curated retail all around a central green space. The first phase, which is under construction and expected to open in fall 2021, will include two luxury multifamily and retail buildings by Hanover Co. totaling 750 residential units woven in a winding network of streets shaded by mature live oak trees. The apartments will connect to 50,000 square feet of locally sourced original restaurants, hidden paseos, and retail spaces, creating an integrated urban lifestyle.
“Our data-driven analytics focused on this exceptional land parcel as one that connects River Oaks to downtown, the Galleria, and Montrose. With a 14-acre blank slate, we saw an opportunity to ‘re-mix’ the concept of mixed use by creating great spaces that integrate entertainment, technology, and wellness in a way that meets the needs of today’s workers, residents, shoppers, and visitors,” said Lionstone CEO Jane Page. “Sustainable and healthier spaces can result in more productive people, and Autry Park combines best-in-class real estate in a walkable environment with access to the relaxation and outdoor activities afforded by the park.”
The partners worked closely with the city and Memorial-Heights TIRZ 5 to make infrastructure improvements to the streets and public spaces surrounding the master plan.
“Buffalo Bayou is one of our city’s greatest natural resources. During the past five years, millions of dollars have been spent on improvements and redevelopment of Buffalo Bayou Park, facilitated by the generous support of foundations, corporations, and individuals,” said Brandt Bowden, CEO of Hanover Co. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to continue the investment in this valuable resource with a thoughtful and unique development at the gateway to Buffalo Bayou Park. We hope other individuals and organizations will recognize how this natural waterway improves quality of life for all Houstonians.”
Retail merchants for the master plan have yet to be announced, but the joint-venture partners along with the retail partner, Rebees, plan to take a locally targeted approach.
Other partners on the project include designers and consultants Ziegler-Cooper Architects, W Partnership, Design Collective, FODA, and walkability expert Jeff Speck. Austin-based Michael Hsu Office of Architecture was enlisted to create the architectural identity for the master plan’s retail spaces as well as the features for the central public park. In addition, landscape architect OJB (Office of James Burnett) created a design to emphasize the pedestrian experience.
