Yet another study

Houston turns to Dallas to tell us what to do with the Astrodome

Let's have a contest:

If you can accurately name the number of studies Harris County has performed or commissioned on the ailing Astrodome, we'll give you the rest of the beer in the CultureMap sales department fridge.

Full disclosure: Add one to whatever number you're at in your head, because that's right — there's another one coming. Except apparently, this one *might* be the last.

And who better to dole out the final say than Dallas? That's right, the Harris County Sports & Convention Corp. has turned to Convention, Sports & Leisure (a Dallas consulting firm) to make another — and hopefully final — recommendation of what to do with the decrepit old architectural icon.

The $500,000 price tag for the study — a pittance compared to the more than $4 million Houston spends annually just to maintain the Dome — will be paid for by the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Houston Texans, the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Aramark, Harris County and the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority.

Perhaps next we'll commission a study on how many studies it's going to take before we determine what to do with the damned thing. Or perhaps this final study (if it is final) will conclude, as the debt ceiling talks seemed to, with the brave decision to form a committee. A SUPER committee.

To read about the options laid out by past Astrodome studies, click here, here or here.

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spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.75 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 $12.75 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