High above Hermann Park, a dramatic transformation is underway at The Parklane, a 35-story residential high-rise in Houston’s Museum District. Located at 1701 Hermann Drive, the iconic building was at one time the tallest high-rise residential tower in the city.
Today, it is being completely reimagined with modernized residences and first-class amenities. Upon completion, The Parklane will debut 195 modern residences available exclusively for purchase, with prices starting from the $300s.
“We built The Parklane in 1983 and were one of the first to introduce high-rise residential living to Houston’s thriving Museum District,” said Nadim Zabaneh, vice president of Houston-Based Tema Development, Inc. “We came to realize there was a niche in the market with a price range conducive to all buyer types, including first-time homebuyers, real estate investors, second homeowners and empty nesters. This drove our decision to convert rental residences into condominiums. Already some of our residents have jumped at the chance to purchase their units.”
Tema Development, Inc. has engaged Mirador Group as the architect, interior designer and landscape architect for the project. The Houston-based architecture and interior design firm has a track record for condominium buildings.
“Our design approach is to stay true to the roots of this contemporary building and incorporate timeless elements,” said Jerry Hooker, principal of Mirador Group. “The material palette is warm, very classic and all stone. The lobby renovation is going to be quite impressive as well. It is a unique space, especially for Houston, given the scale of the space, and the height of the ceiling.”
Community amenities include 24-hour concierge and valet service, resort-style pool and cabanas, outdoor grills and entertaining area, state-of-the-art designer gym, tennis court, reserved parking, electric vehicle charging stations, professional business lounge and luxury shuttle bus transportation to the Texas Medical Center and Light Rail.
The neighboring 535-acre Hermann Park offers direct access for running, golfing and cultural entertainment. Other destinations in the immediate area include Rice University, downtown Houston, Texas Medical Center, Rice Village and the burgeoning Ion Technology & South Main Innovation District.
In addition to The Parklane, Tema Development owns One Hermann Place, a seven-story apartment mid-rise, as well as the recently announced 32-story apartment tower Two Hermann Place.
“We are bullish on this charming and historical area of Houston,” said Haytham Haidar, director of development, Tema Development, Inc. “In 1980 we purchased 8.5 acres of the master-planned site, which includes The Parklane. We have always recognized the uniqueness of an urban residence in a park-like setting and are proud to continue enhancing the area with best-in-class residential options.”
The reconstruction of residences began in January 2020, with a portion of residences currently ready for move-in. The renovation of all 195 residences is slated for completion December 2021. Construction on the fitness center, amenity deck and lobby will begin Q4 2020, with an anticipated completion of Q2 2021. Elevated Group at Compass will be handling the sales of the condominiums.