After announcing the upcoming development of The Ritz-Carlton Residences in The Woodlands in October, Howard Hughes announced on Nov. 15 it has engaged architecture firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects to design the project.

The project will feature 111 private residences available for purchase in what developers describe as the first freestanding Ritz-Carlton branded residences in Texas.

Howard Hughes also released renderings for elements of the project, which will feature a Texas limestone façade and a location overlooking Lake Woodlands.

In a news release, the design is described as influenced by the Texas estates designed by John Staub, known for private estates he designed around the River Oaks Country Club.

What they’re saying


“We strive to be meticulous in our craft and have developed a reputation for our modern interpretations of traditional building styles and projects that use time-honored materials, which will be on display throughout The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands,” said Robert A.M Stern, founder and senior partner of Robert A.M. Stern Architects, in a news release.

“Staub blended classic East Coast and Southern residential vernaculars with the more relaxed lifestyle he encountered in Texas. The result was a beloved architectural style unique to his adopted home,” said Paul Whalen, partner at Robert A.M. Stern Architects, in the news release. “RAMSA’s design for The Ritz-Carlton Residences, The Woodlands follows a similar approach, marrying our firm’s global experience with the rich Texan tradition of blending classicism with a casual lifestyle.”

The details

The 15-story project will be located on 8 acres on Lake Woodlands, with each of the private residences featuring a view of the lake, according to the release.
  • The project will resemble a vertical neighborhood featuring Texas limestone and metal accents on the exterior.
  • Each tower on the property will vary in height and symmetry, resembling a historical structure that was built over time.
  • The residences include features such as a curved and landscaped motor court and French-inspired gardens.
  • The base of the building is intended to resemble a classic Texas townhouse.
The sales and marketing firm for the project will be Douglas Elliman Development Marketing, according to the news release.


Offering input

Zach Richmond, a partner with Richmond Realty Group in The Woodlands told Community Impact when the project was announced in October the choice of architect will create a signature look for the project.

"He has a flair for using classical and natural [elements] around the normal topography," Richmond said. "You're going to see a lot of ... distinct architectural flairs."

The exact timeframe for opening and future address for the residences has not yet been released by Howard Hughes.