Crazy Penthouse Perks

This $1.5 million River Oaks penthouse comes with its own knight in shining armor

Editor's Note: Houston, the surrounding areas and beyond are loaded with must-have houses for sale in all shapes, sizes and price ranges. In this continuing series, CultureMap snoops through some of the best and gives you the lowdown on what's hot on the market.

A knight in shining armor keeps guard at the entrance of a palatial River Oaks loft-style penthouse that's now on sale for $1.5 million.

Walk through

Located on the top floor of Renoir Lofts at 1005 S. Shepherd Drive, corner unit 814 is one of the largest residences in the 19th century Europe-inspired building and affords panoramic views of Houston. Highlights include floor-to-ceiling windows in the two-story great room and an open floor plan perfect for entertaining. Marble flooring extends throughout the first floor.

It is one of the largest residences in the 19th century Europe-inspired building and affords panoramic views of Houston.

Two enormous chandeliers hanging from the 20-foot-tall ceilings are included in the purchase, as are the custom remote sunshade blinds. Artwork by abstract expressionist Nicole Gavin, installed for a recent open house, is also available for sale.

At one end of the great room is the dining area, with the living room/den in the middle and kitchen at the far end. The cooking hub is spacious and features top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances. A kitchen island with bar stools offers more seating. A second bedroom with full bath is located on the first floor.

Upstairs homeowners will find a large loft study/office. The master bedroom boasts painted wood floors and lots of natural light through arched windows. The master bath is complete with dual vessel sinks, plenty of cabinet space, large tub and oversized corner shower.

Step outside
Unit 814 comes with two premium parking spaces right at the garage entrance and two storage units. Maintenance fees, not based on square footage per unit, are $650 monthly. River Oaks Shopping Center is nearby, as is downtown Houston.

Square footage: 3,468

Asking price: $1,499,000

Listing agent: Kristin Shawn McGill, Keller Williams Realty Metropolitan

The knight in shining armor guards the entrance to the penthouse.

19 On the Market 1005 S. Shepherd Dr. No. 814 penthouse May 2014

Photo by © Mike Wilcox

The knight in shining armor guards the entrance to the penthouse.

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3-acre Tomball estate with amenities galore to be listed for $5.3 million

Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

23227 Brownwood Lane is set on three wooded acres on Tomball is will soon be on the market for $5.3 million

Set behind a private, tree-lined approach lies 23227 Brownwood Lane in Tomball. This English Tudor estate sits on three acres, a secluded escape for the home’s 8,000 square feet of living space. Coming soon to the market for $5.3 million and represented by Rachel Solar of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty, it offers unmatched privacy and serenity.

Originally built in 1988, the home seamlessly blends classic Tudor charm with updated finishes and design. Consider the home’s centerpiece, the light-filled kitchen, with high-end appliances, an abundance of cabinetry, and a sizable butlers pantry. An island anchors the space, creating a relaxed gathering spot, and the room gives way to a gorgeous dining room with a dramatic stone fireplace, soaring ceilings, and expansive windows. The elegant living room has its own fireplace, as well as custom millwork, a coffered ceiling, and built-in shelves.

The first-floor primary suite boasts hardwood floors and French doors opening to a patio. The spa-like bath offers custom tilework, an oversized soaking tub, and walk-in shower. Dual walk-in closets have custom cabinets and shelving.

The home has a sunken movie room tucked behind a hidden door, a wood-paneled study, and a second floor game room with built-in bunk beds, study nooks, and an abundance of shelves. The home is designed for entertaining, even as it’s a perfect retreat, set amid beautiful trees and lush grounds, which include a pool and spa.

A garage apartment offers space for guests, or can serve as an in-law residence.

Those who come through the stone-and-iron gate of 23227 Brownwood Lane will be impressed with the home’s rich wood craftsmanship and exquisite details. This forest retreat will certainly be an attractive property for those seeking a home that is welcoming, beautiful, and perfect for living and entertaining.

Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

23227 Brownwood Lane is set on three wooded acres on Tomball is will soon be on the market for $5.3 million