Mid-rises present range of locations, showcase amenities

Houston condominium choices have much to offer potential homeowners, but if a high-rise doesn’t appeal to you, there’s another option.

Mid-rise condos still offer all the perks and living arrangements of a condo, but in a much more intimate building community.

What is a mid-rise? By dictionary definition, a mid-rise building can be anywhere between five to 10 floors. In real estate terms, however, it can be a building with four to 12 stories. In some locations, such as New York City, a mid-rise can be as high as 16 stories.

The appeal of mid-rise living is a personal choice. Maybe it’s a concern with emergencies, fear of heights, the look of the building, or the need for more privacy where elevators open directly into each unit. Whatever the choice, mid-rise living has pluses.

David Young, a broker associate with John Daugherty, Realtors, said there are multiple reasons to love mid-rises.

“There’s ease of access to the unit, the parking is closer, and there’s not as many floors. The HOA fees are also significantly lower,” Young said.

Houston choices for mid-rises are spread throughout the city including the Galleria, Uptown, the Upper Kirby District and the Museum District. Residents can still enjoy access and walkability to some of Houston’s greatest shopping meccas, restaurants, and resources for everyday needs.

One example is Venti Condos, which stands six stories tall with only 20 units. This European-inspired architectural and interior design-tone building is in the more secluded and exclusive Uptown.

Another is The Campton, an upscale mid-rise that was renovated in 2002. Located near the heart of the Galleria, many of the units feature luxury appointments like hardwood floors, granite counters and marble baths.

Some others in Houston are The Tanglewood Houston, Gotham Lofts, Giorgetti Houston, The Mondrian at the Museums, Renoir Lofts and Avenue Grove.

“You have to think why you want a condominium, which is for the security, a lock-and-leave lifestyle and low maintenance, and it’s all the same as a high-rise,” said Young.

Plenty of amenities are also available in mid-rises.

“Most mid-rises have pools, but some don’t. There’s gated parking and controlled building access. Most of the mid-rises are as full-service, especially in the Loop, but some don’t have a full-time concierge,” Young said.

According to ChicagoTribune.com’s article, Find Your Comfort Zone in a

Mid-Rise Building, these mid-rise buildings provide a transition between highrises and single-family homes.

They also pose less financial risk than a taller building, which comes with more units, and some are new construction or are conversions of old warehouses, factories, or hotels.

Courtesy of TK Images Mid-rises, such as the Gotham Lofts, offer a lock-and-leave lifestyle and low maintenance.

Courtesy of TK Images Houston choices for mid-rises are spread throughout the city. Shown is the view from Gotham Lofts.

Courtesy of TK Images Mid-rise buildings provide a “transition” between high-rises and single-family homes.

Courtesy of TK Images In real estate terms, a mid-rise can be a building with four to 12 stories.

Courtesy of TK Images Plenty of amenities are available in mid-rises, and some have pools, like the Gotham Lofts.