Dry area

Private school secures alcohol ban, putting the mixed-used project at old Fiestaspot in jeopardy

After City Council approval on Wednesday, St. Stephen's Episcopal School hasbeen granted a wide, alcohol consumption-free berth.
Photo via Saint Stephen's Episcopal Church & School
The H-E-B Montrose Market was narrowly granted a TABC license late last year,due to proximity to the school's satellite building.
Photo by Clifford Pugh

Houston City Council has approved a long-sought application by St. Stephen's Episcopal School to prohibit alcohol sales within 1,000 feet of the school's property — a decision that may ban mixed-use on Fiesta's former plot at Dunlavy and West Alabama.

Area residents have wondered or worried about that property since its sale in January, and The Examiner reports that Councilman Stephen Costello expressed concern that the new booze blockade has the potential to impede business development around this and the many private schools in the city.

Existing businesses are grandfathered in under the old ordinance (I refuse to imagine a life without West Alabama Ice House) but the protected zone will prevent the opening of any new purveyors of alcohol.

The new booze blockade has the potential to impede business development around many private schools in the city.

However, The Examiner notes, the city holds the authorization to adjust the extent of zone enforcement in the future.

St. Stephen's push for a protected zone follows a similar protest late last year over the approval of a beer and wine license for the neighboring H-E-B Montrose Market.

Although a St. Stephen's satellite building at 1755 Sul Ross fell within the 300-foot boundary prescribed by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code, Harris County Judge Ed Emmett gave the OK to a TABC license for the grocer, arguing that a low student capacity and a separate tax status than the main campus disqualified the building as a "private school."

The property line for the Fiesta plot — slated to become a Mediterranean-inspired apartment development called Lancaster Place — looks to be just over 850 feet (as the crow flies) from the building in question.

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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.

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