Houston Chronicle Sunday

High-rises spotlight helpful array of convenienc­es

- By Valerie Sweeten

Luxury condo living is designed to make your life easier, especially when there are so many incredible services at your fingertips.

You of course have the 24/7 valet, concierge, and security, but there’s more than that. Whether it’s right on the property or in proximity, you never have to go far to take care of yourself, or even your pet.

According to Forbes.com’s article, Condo Amenities That Improve Quality of Life — From Thoughtful to Playful, residents are never at want for anything including yoga instructor­s, resort-style pools, dog parks, outdoor kitchens and more.

It stated that pool terraces and gyms have become standard, but it’s the smaller recreation­al amenities that catch the buyer’s eye. These can range from pet spas to croquet, bocce and firepits.

Sharon Dreyer with John Daugherty, Realtors said Houston properties such as The Tanglewood, Wilshire, and The River Oaks all feature many amenities.

“This is not a new trend for full-service buildings,” said Dreyer. “A big attraction for high-rise owners are the devices and amenities the buildings offer.”

Market Square Tower, one of downtown’s highest residentia­l towers, provides a virtual golf simulator, indoor basketball court and rooftop veranda. Residents can enjoy a movie room, shuffleboa­rd, air hockey, foosball, and separate poker and billiards room.

Dreyer, who moved into the Highland Tower, is loving the high-rise life.

“It’s an easy lifestyle. You do see more and more amenities being offered. Pools taking on a resort look and feel with extensive outdoor gardens and dog parks. There are outdoor chef kitchens, libraries, party rooms and catering kitchens for when you have a larger gathering and need more space,” said Dreyer.

Pet lovers are also covered. It’s not uncommon to have walking paths and parks as well as porch potties. Mobile and on-site pet groomers are in demand for residents on the go as well.

There is also assistance for pet sitting and dog walking when needed.

The Arabella offers a pet-friendly walk area for residents, and The River Oaks offers a dedicated dog park and dog-grooming spa.

Latitude Med Center has a washing station with a full bathtub, shampoo, and a dryer, while downtown’s Parc at Midtown has a 5,000-square-foot park with pathways and benches for walking and potty breaks.

Another perk is when your every need is right below your building — as is the case for One Park Place.

It offers direct access to Phoenicia Deli & Grocery, with private resident accessibil­ity from the One Park Place lobby, and below the building is Brasserie du Park French Restaurant.

There is also 24-hour room service available through The Four Seasons as well as pet walking and grooming services, and dry-cleaning drop-off/ pickup.

 ?? Courtesy of One Park Place ?? One Park Place offers direct access to Phoenicia Deli & Grocery, with private resident accessibil­ity from the One Park Place lobby.
Courtesy of One Park Place One Park Place offers direct access to Phoenicia Deli & Grocery, with private resident accessibil­ity from the One Park Place lobby.
 ?? Shuttersto­ck ?? Most high-rises/condos feature state-of-the-art gyms or fitness areas for residents to enjoy.
Shuttersto­ck Most high-rises/condos feature state-of-the-art gyms or fitness areas for residents to enjoy.
 ?? Shuttersto­ck ?? Pet-grooming services are popular with many residents.
Shuttersto­ck Pet-grooming services are popular with many residents.
 ?? Courtesy of The Wilshire ?? A resort-style pool area, such as the one at The Wilshire, is a must for most high-rises today.
Courtesy of The Wilshire A resort-style pool area, such as the one at The Wilshire, is a must for most high-rises today.

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