River Oaks high-rise getting a makeover
New Yorker Richard Leibovitch says local developers advised him to demolish the River Oaks Luxury Apartments - the aging midcentury high-rise his firm purchased last fall - and build two side-by-side towers with upward of 600 units.
His firm, New York-based Arel Capital, decided instead to redevelop the 1967 structure with fewer but larger units for a luxury condominium project. During its heyday, the developer says the 17-story apartment building at 3433 Westheimer was iconic for its "exclusive address, expansive grounds and Miesian-style architecture" with its steel frames, curtain walls, prominent use of glass and open interiors.
The building began to deteriorate over time, with aging plumbing and yellowing walls.
"What we wanted to do was basically renovate this building and bring it back to its old level," Leibovitch said in an interview. "We are taking the bones of the building and bringing it into the 21st century."
Construction is underway on the 84-unit condominium project. The project will retain the original footprint on the three-acre property along Westheimer in the heart of River Oaks. Initial renderings show a contemporary-style building with floor-to-ceiling windows and terraced gardens all around. The design includes panoramic views, corner balconies and large roof terraces. Floor plans will range from 1,500 to 9,000 square feet.
The River Oaks is slated to be completed by fall 2016. A sales center will open in May.
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