With higher costs of land and construction, increased demand for walkable environments and more acceptance of structured parking, mixed-use is finally becoming the norm rather than the exception as the backdrop for new retail development in metro Houston. Developers of all types recognize that quality retail enhances the value of all surrounding real estate. Apartment and office developers are utilizing retail areas as additional amenities to differentiate themselves from their competition. Selecting the appropriate retailers for highly visible spaces in these developments is extremely important, as those users become strongly representative of the overall project. Project Examples Regent Square, a 24-acre development from GID, spans four blocks, with Allen Parkway, West Dallas and Dunlavy defining the perimeter of the project. GID is currently building apartments on one of these blocks to include 50,000 square feet of retail on the first floor and three large freestanding restaurant pads. JLL has been hired to handle leasing of the project. MetroNational has gained control of the 200,000-square-foot former Sears building at Memorial City Mall and 13,620-square-foot adjoining garage. Trademark has been hired to assist in the redevelopment of the property. Zadok Jewelers announced a new mixed-use development on 1.6 acres at 1801 Post …
