Houston’s original hip urban neighborhood, Montrose, has added to its persona as home to many of the city’s GLBT residents and businesses, and now increasingly includes residents of all ages and identities. While many of the grand old homes in the city are being lovingly preserved, the area is increasingly seeing denser development, including townhomes and mid-rises. Much of the new development is rental, such as the 30-story tower rising at 3400 Montrose, and the 390-unit, 7-story Susanne apartments across from the acclaimed H-E-B grocery store at Alabama and Dunlavy.

Living in the Montrose Area of Houston

Now under development near Waugh Dr. and Allen Parkway, the 24-acre Regent Square promises to be a transformative project for the Montrose area. The plan calls for 550 condominiums and 550 apartments, plus 400,000 square feet of retail, office and restaurant space. It’s envisioned as a walkable, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with parks, plazas and a 24/7 urban vibe. Some of the first buildings, including the 21-story Sovereign apartment tower, have just been completed.

Home to St. Thomas University and the Menil Collection museum, Montrose has also gained new grocery stores, including H-E-B and Whole Foods. The neighborhood is in no danger of losing its funky vibe, though, as nationally acclaimed new restaurants such as Underbelly and Uchi thrive alongside hipster boutiques, gay bars, coffee shops and vintage clothing stores.

The Fourth Ward area, also known as Freedman’s Town, has benefited from the appeal of its location between Montrose and Downtown. It sports new restaurants and newly constructed townhomes, condos and apartments.

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