Details on former Rice Hotel renovations revealed

The Houston Business Journal reports that the former Rice Hotel - now called The Rice - in downtown Houston is now under new ownership and management. They are committed to renovating the historic building, and have selected Page to design the project - again. The Rice Hotel was built in 1913 but sat vacant from the late 1970s until 1998, when it was converted into Post Rice Lofts. Page was the architect for that project, too.

South Carolina-based property manager Greystar Real Estate Partners has said that the extensive renovation will include enhancements to its amenity spaces, including the entrance and lobby, and 308 luxury apartment units. Completion for the common area renovations is slated for the spring, and renovations to the units are expected to begin by the end of the year.

Other changes include relocating the fitness center to the second floor and transitioning it into a “state-of-the-art health club,” converting the indoor pool area into a “luxurious spa experience,” and adding new seating, lighting, surround-sound speakers and dining areas to the outdoor community terrace, Greystar said in a statement.

The units — which include studios, one- and two-bedroom lofts, and penthouses ranging in size from 485 to 2,452 square feet — will have their kitchens and bathrooms remodeled and will receive designer lighting fixtures, new paint and full-size washer and dryers.

The updates come at a time of renewed interest in downtown living. Houston Business Journal reported earlier this year there are at least 10 new multifamily buildings planned for downtown Houston and more likely on the way.

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