Retail Therapy

More stores hit West Ave, including a blow dry bar & Tootsies' male counterpart

Blow dry bars are popping up in hot spots around the country and Houston isgetting one at West Ave.
West Ave is shaping up with more new stores.
Photo by Ralph Bivins
Q Custom Clothier aims to give men an answer to Tootsies at West Ave.

West Ave, currently the epicenter for new Houston retail, restaurant and beauty openings, is unveiling three more storefronts in the coming months. Q Custom Clothier, Bang & Olufsen and Do Bar will be the latest concepts to call West Ave home.

While the female fashion flock heads to Tootsies, their male counterparts can shop at Q Custom Clothier, a boutique stocked with custom shirts and suits, shoes, leather goods, accessories, cufflinks and luggage. The Dallas import opened in 1965 and owner Raja Ratan chose Houston for its first expansion location. The men’s shop is expected to open in the summer.

Sisters Ronit Levy Mele and Sharon Levy opened their Ivory Bridal Atelier at West Ave in January and were mum about other retailers headed to the center, although they quietly shared the news of one store, Bang & Olufsen. Filled with top-of-the-line music systems, loudspeakers, televisions, telephones, accessories and other multimedia products, the store is set to open late spring or early summer.

And how did the Ivory owners know about the impending opening? Their father is opening the store.

Popular in New York and Los Angeles, Houston is set to get its first blow dry bar. Do Bar, a spot for blowouts, updos and conditioning treatments is set to open at West Ave in June. Craft Salon owner Cara Crafton believes local women should have the opportunity to treat themselves and their hair.

“Women love to have their hair blow dried but it’s a luxury many don’t afford themselves or something they only do for a special occasion. We are taking it to the next level and making it quick, accessible and affordable,” Crafton said.

Blowouts will take 30 to 45 minutes and cost $35. Customers will choose from a blow-dry menu with options such as Sleek & Straight and Big & Bouncy.

There is also word of at least one other well-established men’s and women’s boutique finalizing plans for a West Ave move, but lips are sealed until the deal is done.

As new spaces are opening, there is news of Rome Salon and Day Spa shuttering its doors in November after opening in June 2010.

unspecified

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