photos by JULIE SOEFER
styling by KATE STUKENBERG
model MICHAELA McCLURE FOR WALLFLOWER MANAGEMENT
hair and makeup by TONYA RINER
styling assistance by GRETA CONNOLLY
Shot on location in Montrose
The Westmore’s intimate, mid-rise scale was intended to complement, rather than overpower, its charming surroundings, which range from renovated bungalows and multiplexes to high-end patio homes and townhomes plus multi-million-dollar single-family residences. And while just seven stories, residents are afforded beautiful treetops and skyline views that belie its modest size.
Perfectly nestled just off bustling Kirby Drive, just outside River Oaks, and moments from West University, the 33-residence property boasts an enviable 92 Walk Score. The proximity to things both useful and enjoyable has been one of its biggest sale drivers given the plethora of things that a pedestrian can so easily access just blocks away, from Whole Foods Market and Levy Park to Pinstripes bowling and bocce and Color Factory, plus a slew of antique and design stores, art galleries, service offerings, and fitness studios. And that doesn’t touch the surface of a literal bounty of restaurants for every taste, ranging from The Original Carrabba’s, Kiran's, and Thai newcomer MaKiin to recently opened bistro PS-21, Armando’s, Local Foods and Relish.
According to Pelican Builders founder Robert Bland, “The appeal for this building spans upwardly mobile young professionals to downsizing couples in their 50s and 60s, and they’re all drawn to a no maintenance lifestyle with the best of the city at their fingertips. At the Westmore, they have all that with the bonus of a 24-hour doorman for security purposes.”
The property is exclusively sold and marketed by Douglas Elliman Development Marketing. Its model residence is open Monday – Tuesday and Thursday – Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm or by appointment. For more information or to book an appointment to tour, please call or text 713-600-5096 or visit www.westmorehouston.com.
photo by Chris Nguyen
Starduster Lounge opens later this month, from White Oak Music Hall cofounder Will Thomas and Benjy Mason of Johnny's Gold Brick and Winnie's. The eclectic project is located at 3921 N. Main St., the former home to Spanish Flowers restaurant, and is designed to recall Texas in the '70s, with touches of cowboy and Tejano culture. The 1940s building has been reimagined as a wacky Tex-Western lounge, pulling inspiration from its past lives as a Latin music venue and Mexican restaurant. Expect vintage fixtures, hand-painted tiles, architectural details like archways, and a mural of a desert by local artist Carissa Marx-Beaty.
The space will be inviting to those who wish to kick back with a brewski and those who want to sip on a high-end cocktail alike. According to a release, a peek at the drink menu reveals a mix of agave spirits and whiskey, plus a tight list of fun and approachable cocktails from local bartender Justin Ware. (The Freezer Cosmo with hibiscus and lemongrass vodka sounds delish.)
As for food, there will be a rotating lineup of Houston food trucks to be parked outside.
Starduster Lounge bows late January and will be open until 2am nightly.
The Kitchen & Cantina menu touts beautifully executed classics like mesquite-grilled fajitas, enchiladas verdes, taquitos and mouthwatering combo platters, all made with hand-rolled tortillas, house-ground sausage and more. With existing locations in Memorial, the Heights and The Woodlands, it has garnered a following city-wide.
But there's something about the new River Oaks restaurant that goes beyond the basic margarita: Behind the main building, a "cavern-like" agave-focused bar will feature a drink list comprised of mezcal- and tequila-forward beverages, plus a menu of light bites like flautas and aguachile. More info about the forthcoming Bar Buena can be found on Instagram.
“We are excited to continue Goode Company’s journey and expand into the River Oaks community with this new location,” said Goode Company Chef and President Levi Goode in a statement. “We aim to create an inviting atmosphere where people can unwind, relax on our outdoor patio, enjoy some delicious food, or take in an excellently crafted cocktail at Bar Buena.”
Rendering of new Goode Co. Kitchen + Cantina (courtesy Brown McGregor Architects, Inc.)