Home Is Everything.
These businesses put their heart and soul into bringing the best of the home to you and to our community. Thank you for supporting local.
Acero Bella
Closet Concepts HTX
Alex Loyd, REALTOR - Compass Design House, Inc.
Executive Technology Group
H Town Roof & Constructions
Haute Magnolia Interiors
LEVELTX®
Luisa Design Studio
Martha White, REALTOR - Gary Greene/Better Homes and Gardens
Nick’s Plumbing & Air Conditioning
ShelfGenie of Greater Houston
Uptown Appliance Repair
William Wheless, REALTOR - Wheless Realty
Winfrey Design Build
Houston Methodist Hospital
#1 HOSPITAL IN TEXAS FOR PATIENT CARE & QUALITY
Houston Methodist Hospital has been named the Best Hospital in Texas for 13 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report and recognized on the Honor Roll eight times — with 10 nationally ranked specialties. For more than 100 years, we have provided patients with the highest quality care, the most advanced technology and the best patient experience. That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.
houstonmethodist.org/bestintexas
713.790.3333
Close To Home
Welcome to our much-anticipated Annual Home Issue! If there’s one thing we all share, it’s the love and pride we have for our homes. They’re not just the places we live; they’re where our lives unfold—where we celebrate, connect, and create memories. Home truly is where the heart is, and in this special edition, we’re diving deep into everything that makes your house feel like home.
From the latest trends in interior design to local businesses that can help you bring your vision to life, this issue is your ultimate guide to all things home. Whether you’re planning a total remodel, looking for inspiration to refresh a room, or hunting for the perfect real estate professional to help you find your dream home, we’ve got you covered. Our community is full of talented designers, skilled home services professionals, and innovative realtors, and we’re thrilled to showcase the best of the best right around the corner.
Inside, you’ll find expert tips, stunning design features, and stories that highlight the passion and creativity of local businesses. We’ve also included a few surprises—because who doesn’t love discovering something new?
At River Oaks Lifestyle Magazine, we’re all about celebrating the vibrant community we call home. We hope this issue inspires you to dream big, try something new, and connect with the talented individuals who make our neighborhood so special. After all, the heart of any great home is the people within it.
Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey. Here’s to making your home the perfect reflection of you.
Cheers!
SUZANNE SCHAKETT, PUBLISHER @RIVEROAKSLIFESTYLE
March 2025
PUBLISHER
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Gabi De la Rosa | gabi.delarosa@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kayla Bokemeyer | kayla.bokemeyer@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Suzanne Schakett | suzanne.schakett@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Arielle Alston | arielle.alston@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ally Straczek, Diane Cowen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
PRIORITIZE
MARCH
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Chef Aaron Bludorn at his new restaurant Perseid at Hotel Saint Augustine. 2: Georgea & Griffin Haby at the grand opening of Hotel Saint Augustine and Perseid restaurant. 3: Candace Thomas, Leah Rausch, Nina Rand, Bethany Buchanan at The Sale. 4: Bob & Gracie Cavnar and Rudy Guerra at Delicious Alchemy Banquet at Hope Farms HTX. 5: Bludorn partner Cherif Mbodji at the grand opening of Hotel Saint Augustine and the Bludorn restaurant Perseid. 6: All Female Chef Brigade at the Delicious Alchemy Banquet 2024 at Hope Farms HTX. 7: Shae Johnson, Bianca Calderón de Lachica, Nancy Almdovoar, Danielle Dubois, Alley Leto at Women in PowHER Summit.
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
JARED HERNANDEZ
The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse Returns to RodeoHouston
Berg Hospitality Group is excited to announce the return of The Ranch Saloon + Steakhouse at the 2025 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The Ranch provides Rodeo-goers with the option of a casual or formal sit-down dining experience within a handsomely designed 16,000 squarefoot, climate- controlled tent on the NRG grounds. The biggest party on the fairgrounds, the venue buzzes with nightly DJs, private event spaces, and a VIP area with reserved seating throughout the Rodeo season.
On the Kirb Officially Opens Fourth Location
On the Kirb, the organic eatery and sports bar, recently opened its new location in Greenway Plaza. This is the fourth location–boasting 5,800 square feet complete with 3 massive 170” HD LED video walls and over 25 65” HD TVs, so revelers will never miss a play. The restaurant quickly gained popularity after opening in early 2016. Offering fresh local produce, organic meats and organic, free-range dairy and poultry, the concept breathes new life into the traditional sports bar aesthetic.
Houston’s Hottest Work Out Studio, Ritual One, Opens in Uptown Park
The newest, hottest workout has arrived in Uptown Park between Juiceland and The Rustic. The latest fitness phenomenon hails from Dallas–featuring a mixture of power sculpt, hot Pilates, power vinyasa, inferno flow, and inferno HIIT–all taking place in its state-of-the-art infrared-heated studio. Ritual One is known for its powerful workouts and has a zealous following among celebrities, professional athletes, and dancers.
Photography by Brian Kennedy
Photography by Becca Wright
Photography by Silver Street Media
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Collab with Lane Boots
This year, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ collaborated with popular Texas-based brand Lane Boots on a one-of-a-kind limited edition collection. Muffy King, Director of Marketing for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, designed the boots with help from a team of experts at Lane Boots. Together, they looked at what is trending in existing boot designs and the fashion industry as a whole to come up with a unique look.
PREMIUM CARE, HOME COMFORT
Amanecia Health offers mobile and telehealth urgent care services led by a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician, Lauren Leavitt, M.D. We also provide virtual weight management consultations, using GLP-1 medications, semaglutide and tirzepatide. Patients enjoy direct access and communication with a physician, no memberships, and no hidden fees—straightforward, convenient professional care.
Urgent Care visits start at $150 and At-Home visits at $250. Complementary weight management consultations.
MAXIMIZED ACCESSIBILITY
Custom Pull-Out design brings items into view, eliminating blind spots.
TAILORED FIT
Each shelf is custom-built to fit your unique space, ensuring no wasted space.
DURABLE CONSTRUCTION
Hand crafted dovetail joinery, durable rails withstand 45 kg/100 lbs. For daily use, backed by a lifetime warranty*
ARTICLE BY ALLY STRACZEK
2025 HOME TRENDS: TIPS FROM HOUSTON’S EXPERTS
LOCAL EXPERTS PROVIDE GUIDANCE ON REAL ESTATE, HOME DESIGN, HARDWARE, LIGHTING, AND FITTINGS, HELPING HOMEOWNERS ENHANCE THEIR STYLE AND BOOST THEIR PROPERTY VALUE.
Houston specialists in real estate, home design, craftsmanship, hardware, and lighting give tips on upgrading your home’s style and value using the latest trends. Learn how small changes to spaces, plumbing, hardware, cabinetry, and furnishings inside and outside instantly add efficiency and luxury that reflect current design and let your personality shine through.
“Think about how your home could be more efficient to feel like a space you love to call home.”
HOW CAN READERS APPROACH HOME RENOVATIONS IN 2025?
Start by deciding how you want to make your house a home. Think about how your home could be more efficient and make it feel like a space you love to call home and spend time in. Here are a few questions to think through when renovating a home. Do you want a kitchen that fosters daily family time? Do you need a sanctuary master bath that rescues you from the stress of long days? What are the most used items in your closet, and how do you accommodate them more efficiently through design? Do you want to incorporate a mudroom in your laundry room?
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO REVIVE A SPACE IN THE HOME?
The best way to revive a space with minimum hassle is to change faucets, hardware, and lighting. These items reflect design trends during installation and can look old and tired if not correctly maintained. They are easy to swap out to make your home feel fresh and new. If you are more adventurous, changing the countertops and sinks can freshen up a space quickly.
HOW MUCH DO FIXTURES AND LIGHTING MATTER IN A HOME?
Plumbing, hardware, and lighting convey a home’s price point and overall quality. They can also become part of our disposable society mindset. Faucets should be changed frequently to avoid frustration and potential damage to your home. Homeowners should wipe faucets off daily and wax them quarterly. Invest in durable products with an expected long life span to avoid issues. A smart tip is to select timeless designs with a design professional.
CHAS DANIELS Acero Bella, Inc.
acerobella.com
Photo courtesy of Acero Bella, Inc.
“Paint colors are trending to moody neutrals with earthy hues, like deep greens, warm whites, pinks,deep purples, and browns.”
ALEXANDRA
“ALEX” R. LOYD Founding Agent, Compass Real Estate
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO REVIVE AND REFRESH A SPACE?
Declutter. This is typically the primary topic of discussion when meeting a seller for the first time. When showing your home to buyers, having some personal photos is okay because they love to see fun, happy images, but you want them to see the house without getting lost in “stuff.” Tidy spaces by dusting, cleaning windows, and touching up/refreshing paint, especially on cabinets. Consider getting new pillows for sofas to give them a fresh look.
WHAT COLORS WILL WE SEE MORE OF IN HOME DESIGN AND DECOR THIS YEAR?
I love seeing trends change after a few years. Over the last decade, we have seen everything from warm greys and greiges to stark blacks and whites. We have seen more natural, lighter wood colors in the last few years. White oak has been a top choice for flooring, kitchen cabinets, and drawers. This year, paint colors trend to “moody neutrals” with earthy hues, like deep greens, warm whites, pinks, deep purples, and browns. While I love this trend, I still love a home that displays its artwork with white walls to make the artwork pop. To be bold in a small space, you can add wallpaper in a powder room without spending too much.
HOW MUCH DO FIXTURES AND LIGHTING MATTER IN A HOME?
Lighting is essential to me. However, I do not like bright, stark white LED lights. Their blue undertones show imperfections in a home, throw off any wall color, and make the house seem very cold. Homeowners can still have LED lighting with a softer pink or yellow tone to make a home feel more inviting.
compass.com/agents/alex-loyd
Photo courtesy of Alex Loyd
“Modern home security has evolved beyond basic alarms. Integrated security solutions combine AI-powered cameras, biometric access controls, and environmental monitoring.”
WHAT ARE SOME HOME AUDIO AND VISUAL TRENDS FOR 2025?
The integration of AI-powered calibration systems is revolutionizing home entertainment experiences. We’re seeing a surge in demand for multi-purpose media rooms that adapt automatically to different uses, from casual TV viewing to immersive home theater experiences. Wireless audio solutions have evolved significantly, with whole-home audio systems offering studio-quality sound without compromising aesthetics. The trend toward larger-format micro-LED displays is fascinating, as they offer unprecedented picture quality while being more energy-efficient than traditional solutions.
HOW CAN HOMEOWNERS USE TECHNOLOGY TO PROTECT THEIR HOMES?
Modern home security has evolved far beyond basic alarm systems. We’re implementing integrated security solutions that combine AI-powered cameras, biometric access controls, and innovative environmental monitoring. A key trend is the seamless integration of security with other home systems – for example, lighting that automatically adjusts based on security camera activity or HVAC systems that shut down specific zones if smoke is detected. The focus is on creating comprehensive safety ecosystems that are both highly effective and user-friendly.
WHAT ARE SOME TIPS FOR THE LATEST TRENDS IN SMART HOME AUTOMATION THIS YEAR?
RICHARD MACHEMEHL CEO/Operations Director Executive Technology Group
The most significant trend is the move toward truly intuitive home automation systems. Voice control has evolved to understand context and patterns, making interactions more natural. Energy management is another crucial area – we’re implementing systems that learn household routines and automatically optimize energy usage across lighting, HVAC, and appliances. Wellness technology is also gaining prominence, with automated systems that adjust lighting, color temperature, and indoor air quality to support residents’ circadian rhythms and overall well-being.
executivetechnologygroup.com
Photo courtesy of Executive
“I see that location, price, and quality continue to be the primary themes in the Houston luxury market.”
WILLIAM M. WHELESS IV Owner, Wheless Realty
WHY ARE YOU SO PASSIONATE ABOUT WORKING IN THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY?
I am the fourth generation in my family to work in real estate, and I love meeting and helping people. I have the privilege of helping people make the right transition, whether they want to buy or sell a home.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE LATEST HOME TRENDS?
Location, price, and quality continue to be the primary themes in the luxury market. Homes that are well located, built well, and priced appropriately tend to sell quickly.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LATEST TRENDS IN SELLING AND BUYING A HOME?
Technology continues to improve for consumers and real estate professionals, helping to make the buying and selling process more efficient. Several AI tools help us market a property to maximize the value of our client’s homes and sell them as quickly as possible.
WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT IN 2025?
I am super excited to be involved in the sales process of The Birdsall Residences Auberge Resorts Collection, located at the corner of Buffalo Speedway and West Alabama. This mixed-use project is part of Transwestern’s ultra-high-end RO development. With unique features such as fine dining, hotels, condos, and special retail, it will offer a luxury living experience that Houston has not seen before.
har.com/web/WhelessRealty/resources/aboutme
Photo courtesy of William Wheless
“Trends I see in buying and selling homes are contemporary, sleek architectural designs, including kitchens, baths, and lighted wine storage.”
MARTHA WHITE REALTOR®, BHGRE Gary Greene-Distinctive Collection
WHY ARE YOU SO PASSIONATE ABOUT WORKING IN REAL ESTATE?
I love helping people find their next special place in life. Meeting my client’s dreams and needs is my greatest joy and satisfaction. As a native Houstonian, I am proud to show buyers and sellers all the wonders and places Houston offers.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE LATEST HOME TRENDS IN 2025?
The trends I see in buying and selling homes are contemporary, sleek architectural designs, including kitchens, baths, lighted wine storage, and display areas. Large walls of windows to let natural light abound and touches of gold accents in hardware and lighting.
WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO REVIVE OR REFRESH A SPACE?
To make the most impact of some easy/ relatively inexpensive updates or refreshing, update dated fixtures and lighting. Current design magazines are a great place to go for ideas. You can visit a plumbing/lighting showroom in Houston and take clues from newly constructed homes. Decluttering is also an immediate update. Consider making an impact with one or two show-stopping contemporary pieces of art or furniture.
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR COLORS CURRENTLY TRENDING IN HOME DESIGN AND DECOR?
Medium to lighter natural wood tones, metallic gold accents in hardware, lighting, and tile inserts. Accent walls or rooms of intense, rich color, including dark blues, deep greens, or rich reddish pinks/purples. Homeowners are tired of everything grey/ whitewashed. People want a WOW factor in their home for others to see and enjoy. Excitement and sophistication are key.
marthawhite.garygreene.com
Photo courtesy of Martha White
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIE SOEFER
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
THE TIGELLE SANDWICH FROM LEE’S EXEMPLIFIES THE COCKTAIL BAR’S DEDICATION TO FLAVOR AND INNOVATION.
Benjy Levit, the restaurateur behind Benjy’s, Local Foods, and Milton’s, recently debuted Lee’s, the newest concept from the Local Foods Group. The Rice Village bar crafts an extensive cocktail menu led by Máté Hartai, blending classic and modern techniques to match the space’s upbeat ambiance. Pairing perfectly with the drinks are globally inspired bites from Siegel-Gardner and Chef Kent Domas. Highlights include hamachi tacos, Takoyaki arancini, crispy polenta with blue cheese fondue, and wings stuffed with chicken sausage. For dessert, there’s an ice cream sandwich with brown butter cookies and sorbet pops. At Lee’s, every bite complements the fun and innovative cocktail experience. miltonandlees.com
THE BREAD
Chef Kent Domas says the tigelle is a classic street food from the Bologna region. Like pizza dough, Domas cooks it in a press to give it a crispy texture akin to pizza crust. Afterward, he brushes it with a fragrant rosemary garlic butter. “The ampersand came with the
press that we were able to find,” said Domas. “We say the ‘&’ is part of Milton’s ‘&’ Lee’s because we serve the dish at both restaurants.
THE HAM
The Tigelle sandwich features San Daniele aged prosciutto, an Italian cured ham from the town of San Daniele in Northern Italy, known for its sweet and delicate flavor and velvety texture.
THE CHEESE
Chef Domas chose taleggio cheese because “it is a sharp, funky cheese that works well with salty ham, crisp apples, and the sweetness of the honey.”
THE MIX-INS
The flavors of the Tigelle sandwich come together with a touch of honey. The simplicity of the ingredients and preparation shines, allowing the natural flavors to come through.
Lee’s, Tigelle Sandwich.
montrosemedspa.com 713.485.5027
2505 Dunlavy St, Houston, Tx V @montrosemedspa
HANGING FROM New Heights
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S HAIR SUSPENSION ARTIST, PENNY SCHEIDLER, SHARES INSIGHT INTO HER ONE-OF-A-KIND DUET IN ECHO.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CIRQU DU SOLEIL
HOW DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN A HAIR SUSPENSION ACT?
The inspiration to explore hair suspension came after working with a hairhanger in a show in Australia. Witnessing the discipline live for the first time deeply moved me. I had known about it before, but seeing it in person made me truly understand its unique duality—it looks so painful that you almost can’t bear to watch, yet it’s so beautiful and graceful that you can’t look away. I was also incredibly curious about what it would feel like to hang by my hair.
Joining Cirque du Soleil has been a dream of mine since childhood. Growing up in a small village in Austria—where circus schools were nonexistent, and many people didn’t even know being a circus performer was an actual profession—it felt like an impossible goal. But seeing that live performance inspired me to pursue this extraordinary art form.
HOW DID YOU TRAIN FOR THIS?
I am entirely self-taught. I knew I wanted to be a circus performer from an early age. Since there were no circus schools where I grew up, I trained myself. My background in various aerial disciplines provided a strong foundation for hair suspension. Unlike most other circus arts, hair hanging is one of the few disciplines that shouldn’t be overtrained. It requires a balance between preparation and rest to ensure safety and sustainability in performance.
DOES HANGING FROM YOUR HAIR HURT, OR DID IT IN THE BEGINNING?
It hurt more than I could have ever imagined the first time—and even after years of practice, it still hurts a lot. The level of pain can vary depending on several factors, such as temperature, hormones, and other physical conditions. You learn to manage it, but it’s never completely painless.
HOW LONG DID YOU TRAIN FOR THIS KIND OF ACT?
My original duo partner, Charlotte O’Sullivan, and I came up with the idea of creating a duo hair suspension act during the pandemic. We developed and refined it together in a small studio in Mexico before bringing it to Cirque du Soleil. We revamped the act on January 25, and I’m so excited for the audience in Houston to see it.
Penny Scheidler is one half of the hair raising suspension act in Cirque du Soleil's, Echo.
HAVE YOU HAD ANY HAIR MISHAPS?
Thankfully, no!
DO YOU DO ANYTHING TO KEEP YOUR HAIR STRONG AND HEALTHY?
Yes, it is so important to take great care of my hair. I see a hair specialist regularly and use hair and scalp oils to keep it strong and healthy. Maintaining my hair is just as important as the physical training for this act.
YOU ARE THE FIRST-EVER HAIR SUSPENSION ACT IN CIRQUE DU SOLEIL HISTORY, WHICH IS QUITE A FEAT GIVEN THE ABUNDANCE OF ACTS THEY HAVE PERFORMED OVER THE YEARS. HOW DOES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL?
It’s an incredible and almost indescribable feeling. Not only are we the first-ever hair suspension duo in Cirque du Soleil’s history, but knowing that we created the act ourselves makes it even more special. I’m grateful every time I get to perform this act on such an iconic stage.
Echo premiers in Houston on February 6 through March 23 and has a modern, contemporary style under the big top tent.
Your Vision. Our Technology. Flawlessly Connected.
Richard Machemehl - Technology Solutions Architect
(281) 826-1880 |
Experience the pinnacle of home and business technology with Executive Technology Group —trusted by homeowners and businesses in River Oaks, West U, and surrounding areas. From whole-home automation and high-performance networks to immersive home theaters and cutting-edge security, we deliver seamless, reliable solutions tailored to your lifestyle.
We’ve completed numerous elite projects in the area and are currently transforming more properties with state-of-the-art technology. Let’s make yours next.
VISUAL NARRATIVES
Interior designer Katie Davis matches décor to each home’s ‘story.’
ARTICLE BY DIANE COWEN
Katie Davis may not have been thinking about interior design when she watched her parents’ kitchen get remodeled and she may not have imagined who created the beautiful spaces in shelter magazines she loved to peruse.
A sisal rug and sea grass window shades add natural elements to this bedroom. Photo by Nathan Schroder
“We think every house has a story. If it’s a traditional-style home, what is its feel? If it has paneling and brass fixtures, what are we going to
put with
it? Once we know how the home will be used, we talk about color and patterns, which we use in all of our work.”
—Katie Davis
But years later, when she and her husband, Billy Davis, an attorney, got their first home, she knew exactly how to express her own sense of style. It impressed friends, too, because they frequently asked for help choosing tile and paint colors. When her husband told her she was spending enough time on it that she should get paid for it, she agreed. She thought it might just be a side hustle while raising kids – they’re now 8 and 11 – but within six months, her Katie Davis Design business was a full-time job. Katie is the newest honoree in the Houston Design District’s Leaders In Design program.
Now her business focuses on residential design, and ranges from helping clients with furnishings as well as remodeling jobs and full-home new construction.
“We think every house has a story. If it’s a traditional-style home, what is its feel? If it has paneling and brass fixtures, what are we going to put with it?” Katie said. “Once we know how the home will be used, we talk about color and patterns, which we use in all of our work.”
In addition to creating functional kitchens, beautiful living rooms and cozy bedrooms, Katie said that many clients are asking for something dramatically different: secret spaces, such as play spaces or storage rooms with hidden doors.
Pantries have become more important, too, with clients asking for amped up pantries that serve as caterers’ kitchens.
Cozy spots such as this one created by Katie Davis Design are increasingly popular options. Photo by Kerry Kirk
RELAXED AND REFINED
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN GUTIERREZ
Located less than one hour from Downtown Houston, this six-bedroom modern home, listed by Alex Loyd, sits on nearly three waterfront acres in Taylor Lake’s El Lago community. Designed by Miro Rivera Architects and built over five years by Windham Builders, the 14,000-squarefoot residence features white granite, Italian stone, a copper roof, and pear and African cherry wood. Landscaping by Peter Walker includes a koi pond, pool, and lake views.
The circular entry features custom doors, Makrana marble, and skylights. Entertaining spaces include a grand living room with acoustics, glass walls, a green
marble fireplace, and a walk-up bar. The game room offers a bar, millwork, and patio access. The home theater has reclining massage chairs, A/V equipment, and stadium seating. Additional spaces include an office, gym, meditation room, and craft room.
The indoor-outdoor dining room features a custom blue Macauba marble table with a private sculpture patio for post-dinner relaxation. The kitchen includes custom cabinets, granite counters, Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, and a butler’s pantry with warming drawers, wine storage, and two walk-in pantries.
Discover a modern waterfront estate in Taylor Lake’s El Lago, offering breathtaking views, luxurious amenities, and seamless indoor-outdoor living for exceptional entertaining and relaxation.
Six bedrooms include an owner’s suite with water views, a bathroom with a steam shower and jetted tub, a walk-in closet with shoe storage, a packing island, and a cedar closet. A personal elevator and custom glass staircase provide access to additional bedroom suites.
The outdoor area includes a covered patio with bench swings, a summer kitchen, a pool, a fire pit, and a strolling garden. Systems include four Carrier HVAC units, a mudroom, staff quarters with a kitchenette, and covered parking for five vehicles. lakeshoreluxurytx.com
LUXURIOUS LAKESIDE LIVING
• Expansive Outdoor Living: Covered patio with custom bench swings, a summer kitchen, pool, fire pit, and landscaped strolling garden.
• Chef’s Kitchen: Sub-Zero and Miele appliances, custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and a butler’s pantry with warming drawers and wine storage.
• Entertainment Spaces: Home theater with reclining massage chairs, a game room with bar and patio access, and a grand living room with acoustics and lake views.
• Luxurious Owner’s Suite: Spa-like bathroom with a steam shower, jetted tub, and a boutique-style walk-in closet with a cedar safe room.
• Recreational Rooms: Office, meditation room, home gym, craft room, and a spacious indoor-outdoor dining area with a sculpture patio.
• Lakefront Access: Nearly three acres with a koi pond, manicured grounds, and white stone steps leading to the lake.
319 Lakeshore Dr., 77586
This six-bedroom modern home listed by Alex Loyd, sits on nearly three waterfront acres in Taylor Lake’s El Lago community.
MARTHANN MASTERSON
“Art is a visual language, meant to awaken interest and inspire an audience.”
FINE ART Purple Sunset 48”x60” Acrylic
- Marthann Masterson
Q & A Timeless Spaces & Modern Living
THE RO PROJECT BOASTS AN IMPRESSIVE TEAM OF DESIGNERS, ARCHITECTS, AND BUILDERS. CAN YOU SHARE HOW THIS TALENTED GROUP CAME TOGETHER AND WHAT MAKES THEIR COLLABORATION UNIQUE?
It is difficult to build something new that is experienced as if it was developed over time, organically, and fits naturally within the surrounding community. This was one of Transwestern
Sean Suffel shares insights on The RO
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
The RO’s central lawn. Rendering courtesy of The Boundary
Development Company’s primary design goals and, in our view, having different architects for each product type was the only way to make it happen.
RIVER OAKS IS ONE OF HOUSTON'S MOST PRESTIGIOUS NEIGHBORHOODS. WHY DID TRANSWESTERN CHOOSE THIS AREA FOR SUCH AN AMBITIOUS DEVELOPMENT?
It is very uncommon, even in a city with no zoning, to find 17 acres with great geometry and eight access points. Also being a block away from some of the highest demographics in the country created the ideal equation for what could be developed. Our real “aha” moment came after a trip with our master planning architects to the Pearl in San Antonio. The Pearl is an incredible mixeduse development, and we took two things away from our time there that heavily informed our approach to The RO. The first, “Why doesn’t Houston have anything like this?” and second, “So much of the Pearl reflects the character and personality of San Antonio – our plan should capture the character and personality of River Oaks, a neighborhood where many of us live and everyone loves.”
WHAT ASPECTS OF THE RO PROJECT DO YOU FIND MOST REMARKABLE, AND HOW DO THEY REFLECT THE VISION BEHIND THE DEVELOPMENT?
The elements we are most excited about are the way we prioritized aspects of the architecture and massing. For example, everything 30 feet and below will be heavy masonry, primarily brick.
We are using some antique Cedar Bayou brick which many of the original River Oaks homes were built with in the 20s and 30s. Our landscape plan resembles grounds you would walk through on a River Oaks estate, rather than something you would see in a commercial district. We are moving a handful of onsite live oaks to strategic locations to lend weight and history to the overall aesthetic. Parking for the restaurants and retail is all below grade so vehicles don’t conflict with patrons, adding another thoughtful layer to the placemaking.
HOUSTON IS HOME TO MANY LUXURY PROPERTIES. WHAT INNOVATIVE OR DISTINCTIVE AMENITIES WILL THE RO OFFER TO TRULY SET IT APART IN SUCH A COMPETITIVE MARKET?
The Birdsall’s 44 private residences are located on top of a hotel, both are Auberge branded. The casual luxury of Auberge combined with their commitment to exceptional, individualized service is unparalleled, so being able to access that daily as a homeowner represents an uncommon level of richness and convenience.
The second part to this answer ties to our residential design approach. Early on we decided that we didn’t want the residences to resemble condominiums or secondary homes, but instead as custom, primary residences that just happened to be in a tower. That is how we connected with Dillon Kyle, whose architectural practice focuses on custom homes within Houston’s most affluent neighborhoods. Hiring Dillon is one of the best decisions we’ve made.
Members Living Room - The Birdsall, Auberge Resorts Collection. Interior Design and Rendering by Roman and William
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
MARCH 1ST
Houston Symphony - 007 James Bond Forever
Jones Hall | 7:30 PM
Nobody does it better...than the Houston Symphony. Joined by Broadway's Lena Hall the orchestra will be taking you on a journey through some of the best Bond themes ever. So grab those martinis (you know the rest) and settle in for an unforgettable night of music, including selections from Diamonds Are Forever, Skyfall, and of course, our favorite, Live and Let Die.
MARCH 1ST
Houston Holi 2025
14149 Player Street | 12:00 PM
The Festival of Colors is a free-spirited play between friends, family and community with colored powder, welcoming the brightness and happiness of Spring. Houston Holi Festival is an outdoor festival with Live Bollywood Concert, all day color play, Bollywood & Indian Folk Dance Performances, Free Carnival Rides and Holi Pragitya (Bonfire Lighting Display).
MARCH 2ND
Taste
of Italy Houston
NRG Center | 12:00 PM
We’ll be celebrating the 11th anniversary of the trade show in the city where it started. More than 300 attendees will taste authentic Italian products from 70+ producers. Several Masterclasses, a Seminar with a Panel of key buyers discussing the trends of the Texas market.
MARCH 4TH
2025 Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo
NRG Park | 8:00 AM
See you at the HLSR happening March 4 - 23. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has made an impressive footprint on the livestock and entertainment industries and in the sport of rodeo. It also has played a notable role in enhancing the lives of thousands of young people in the state of Texas.
MARCH 18TH
Violent Femmes
White Oak Music Hall | 6:00 PM
As well known for their infamous feuding as for their ground-breaking punk rock work, Violent Femmes have no trouble showing us why they are one of the best acts in punk as they set off on tour across America once again. Don't miss your chance to see these absolute icons of 90s rock, live.
MARCH 19TH
Tyler the Creator
Toyota Center | 7:30 PM
Odd Future's fearless leader Tyler, The Creator is an outspoken producer and performer, unafraid to say exactly what he thinks with devastatingly tight rhythmic flow and discordant, hypnotic samples. Tyler's songs often take the form of stream-of-consciousness style catharsis, with no subject too taboo. Catch him live as he performs across North American on the Chromakopia World Tour.
Want to be featured?
Learn more about membership: 713.316.2729 | membership@houstonian.com | houstonian.com/the-club Some membership categories are currently on a waitlist.