second career champion

To the rescue: Magic Johnson sets out to revitalize the ailing Houston Pavilions

Built in 2008 to bolster a quiet corner of downtown Houston, the mixed-usedevelopment floundered during the economic crisis.
Photo by Jack Opatrny
After a successful run with the aging Marq*E entertainment complex off I-10, theformer NBA star is hoping for another hit with the Pavilions.
Photo by Tyler Rudick

So, the future of the embattled Houston Pavilions may not be so murky after all, thanks to financial support from the one and only Earvin "Magic" Johnson.

The NBA legend's Canyon-Johnson Urban Funds (CJUF) announced a joint venture with Midway — the Houston real estate firm behind the thriving CityCentre development — to acquire the massive downtown mixed-use project.

Working with Midway, Canyon-Johnson hopes to continue its Bayou City winning streak by investing an undisclosed sum to revitalize the Houston Pavilions with fresh batch of leaseholders.

Built in 2008 as a means to breathe life into a relatively quiet part of downtown, the Houston Pavilions had a rocky start at the height of the economic downturn, but managed to gather a host of high-profile tenants like House of Blues, Forever XXI, Lucky Strike and NRG Energy, which maintains a full 11 stories of office space.

Nevertheless, the development went into receivership in late 2011 after the original owners failed to make loan payments for more than a year.

“We are both proud to be investing in Houston again, and to be partnering with Midway to maximize the potential of such an incredible mixed-use asset," said Johnson and CJUF business partner Bobby Turner in a statement Monday. "The support we have received from the City of Houston’s leadership makes projects like this a possibility.”

A prominent urban revitalizer in his post-basketball career, Johnson and his company have enjoyed success with two Houston projects in recent years, buying and rebranding the Hotel Icon and revamping the Marq*E center.

Working with Midway, CJUF hopes to continue its Bayou City winning streak by investing an undisclosed sum to revitalize the Houston Pavilions with a fresh batch of leaseholders.

unspecified

spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.5 million

TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million

A magnificent estate awaits in one of Houston’s most desirable neighborhoods. 412 Timberwilde Lane is a stunning brick and limestone home, inspired by French country manor houses. It’s on the market for $12.5 million and represented by Jay Monroe and Stephen Warrell ofMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on nearly 2.5 acres of meticulously manicured grounds in exclusive Hunters Creek Village, this home blends old world elegance with modern amenities, including 24/7 private security. The grand foyer’s soaring ceiling sets the tone upon entry, announcing that 412 Timberwilde Lane is something special.

Consider the formal library, with its rich, paneled walls and cross-beam ceiling, and the spacious dining room with its cozy fireplace. The living room offers breathtaking views of the rear gardens, pool, cabana, and tennis courts. Just off the kitchen, a light-filled breakfast room is a perfect place for morning coffee and admiring the grounds.

The primary suite is the embodiment of luxury, with dual bathrooms and ample closet space, ensuring comfort and convenience. This private oasis is a place to unwind and relax.

The home’s second floor offers a floor plan that can be tailored to suit any lifestyle. The bedrooms are generously sized with large closets and private baths. A playroom with a built-in playhouse castle makes for a perfect spot for kids’ imaginations to run wild. Other rooms could be utilized for a second home office, exercise room, yoga retreat, crafting space, or whatever else a family might need.

The third floor offers a game room featuring a wet bar, billiards area, and a big-screen TV, making it the ultimate place to relax and have fun with family and friends. The outdoor areas include an in-ground pool and summer kitchen, perfect places.

This one-of-a-kind estate offers an array of amenities for living and entertaining. Its location is both convenient to the city and a restful retreat.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million.

home-for-sale

second career champion

To the rescue: Magic Johnson sets out to revitalize the ailing Houston Pavilions

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spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.5 million

CultureMap Emails Are Awesome
Get Houston intel delivered daily.