Houston Chronicle Sunday

CONDO LIFE

- By Valerie Sweeten CORRESPOND­ENT

Luxury high-rise lifestyle includes desired amenities.

Buyers know what they like, and condo developers are listening.

Finding the perfect fit for a homeowner with their dream high-rise is easier than you think. Not only is the home space desirable on many levels on what’s being provided, the amenities complement the building and are accessible to the condo community.

Remarkable views, private dining spaces, party rooms, pet spas, resort-like pools, indoor basketball courts and pet parks are all available throughout the Houston market.

Mike Reddell, executive vice president of sales at Sudhoff, said buyers are particular­ly interested in private spaces, indoor amenities, and community/common area spaces.

“Large covered terraces that are extensions of buyer’s condominiu­m are in demand. They want these spaces to include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and an area for their pet or a place to have a garden,” he said.

Homeowners also want to be able to have access to healthy living options, said Reddell. Many buildings offer state-of-the-art gyms with equipment such as Precor and Peloton.

“They want wellequipp­ed fitness centers. Many buyers, who continue to work out in a private gym, want a great facility in the building for convenienc­e. They also use the pool for exercise and fitness routines as well as relaxing. We also see buyers who want a small, more private area for workouts, yoga, Pilates, and massage,” he said.

At The Arabella, outdoor spaces include a starlight pool with Galleria views and a hot tub. There is also an indoor lap pool, sauna, and state-of the-art fitness center. Condo owners can entertain in the Resident Lounge with caterer’s kitchen, which then flows to the outdoor kitchen, bar and Palm Deck with fire pit.

According to Inman.com’s article, What Condo Amenities Do Today’s Buyers Desire Most, one of the hottest features of a condo is its location. Additional top requests include rooftop recreation, energyeffi­cient features and family activities.

What’s the draw for rooftops besides a great view? Residents can partake in a rooftop terrace, garden, or lounge with some featuring swimming pools, grills/outdoor kitchens, banquet tables, fire pits and private cabanas. Some rooftops could be reserved for private parties.

One of the newest items introduced in high-rise buildings by demand is expansive covered terraces with numerous luxuries for the optimal outdoor experience. These can accommodat­e both the owner and their fourlegged companions.

“All of the new condominiu­m projects now have larger covered terraces with at least an option for an outdoor kitchen and fireplace,” said Reddell. “Many of them include a provision on the terrace for pets. A ‘Porch Potty’ is plumbed and drains to the city sewer.”

The Sophie and Giorgetti offer this. For people without pets, this area is a perfect spot because of access to water and drainage to be used as a garden.

You’ll find perks for pet owners in many Houston condos. There are secured pet areas for residents, pet-friendly HOA policies as well as 24/7 concierge or security for late-night walks.

At The River Oaks, there’s also an on-site dog park and pet spa with all of the grooming essentials.

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 ?? Courtesy of The River Oaks ?? On-site luxury workout rooms with a range of equipment are convenient for residents.
Courtesy of The River Oaks On-site luxury workout rooms with a range of equipment are convenient for residents.
 ?? Shuttersto­ck ?? Views, private dining spaces, party rooms, pet spas, indoor basketball courts and pet parks are all available throughout the Houston market.
Shuttersto­ck Views, private dining spaces, party rooms, pet spas, indoor basketball courts and pet parks are all available throughout the Houston market.
 ?? Courtesy of 2727 Kirby ?? Top-of-the-line outdoor kitchens are a must — and some come with spectacula­r views.
Courtesy of 2727 Kirby Top-of-the-line outdoor kitchens are a must — and some come with spectacula­r views.
 ?? Courtesy of Sudhoff ?? The Wilshire provides a resort-style pool with water feature, outdoor kitchen and private cabanas.
Courtesy of Sudhoff The Wilshire provides a resort-style pool with water feature, outdoor kitchen and private cabanas.

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