Coming from three disparate worlds, Tanqueray Gin, slick Houston magazine and not-for-profit Catwalk for a Cure seem an unlikely trio to share a common interest. But that was before the doors opened on H-Town's newest destination for fab events — The Astorian.
Located in the Heights-area warehouse district off of Sawyer, the paint was hardly dry last month on the 14,000 square foot, third floor aerie when Houston magazine flooded the space with 700 hipsters and social swells in celebration of its 10th anniversary in the Bayou City. Sister publication Modern Luxury Brides demonstrated just how grandly the space can be decorated when it added ruffles and flourishes for its annual Grandeur Evening of Bridal Luxury.
A few weeks later, the Tanqueray Trunk Show, starring Common, shook the rafters, only a week after Stages Repertory Theatre held its gala there with a glittery salute to Hollywood's golden years. Catwalk for a Cure is just one of several charities that have booked The Astorian for future dates.
Entrepreneurs Joe Pachioli, Romain Kapadia and Juan Cao, the latter of Hughes Hangar design fame, have taken a 30-year-lease on top floor of the re-purposed factory building and are transforming it into one of the city's swankiest party palaces. Let's call it industrial chic.
The partners have created a Grand Central Station vibe in the space with hints of the Oyster Bar, a recreation of the iconic brass clock and floor mosaics that look convincingly old world. Artist Rafael Cueto has created most of the special design features.
The view of downtown from this third floor perch is magical and once the permits are readied for the fourth floor rooftop expansion, the views will be even move amazing. The partners are working on creating an open air party space, another 14,000 square feet. They are envisioning a swank rooftop patio scene reminiscent of that at Restoration Hardware in Highland Village.
The Astorian plays to a sophisticated crowd looking for space beyond a hotel ballroom.
