What's Happening?
Transwestern has commenced construction on the next phase of The RO, a mixed-use development located at the intersection of West Alabama and Buffalo Speedway in Houston. This phase includes The Birdsall, a 34-story hotel and residential tower, a retail
village, and The Clayton, a multifamily residential building. The Birdsall will house 44 private residences above a 105-room hotel, designed by Kohn Pederson Fox, and is expected to be completed by late 2027. The retail village, designed by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture, will offer 80,000 square feet of space for restaurants and boutiques, incorporating existing heritage oak trees. The Clayton, a 317-unit residential tower designed by Pickard Chilton, will feature masonry facades and window lines. The project is part of a larger development in the River Oaks neighborhood.
Why It's Important?
The development of The RO is significant for Houston's River Oaks neighborhood, as it represents a substantial investment in the area's infrastructure and economy. The inclusion of a hotel, residential units, and retail space is likely to attract more visitors and residents, boosting local businesses and potentially increasing property values. The project also reflects a trend towards mixed-use developments that combine living, working, and leisure spaces, which can enhance urban living experiences. The involvement of prominent architectural firms and financial institutions underscores the project's scale and potential impact on the local economy.
What's Next?
The completion of The Birdsall and the retail village is anticipated by late 2027, with The Clayton also being a key component of this phase. The initial phase of The RO, which includes a 145,000-square-foot Class AA office building, is nearing completion and is scheduled for tenant occupancy in June 2026. As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor how it influences the River Oaks neighborhood in terms of economic growth and urban development. Stakeholders, including local businesses and residents, may respond to the changes brought by this development.
