[[{“value”:”
Pagewood has started work on Phase 1 of East Blocks, an adaptive reuse project in Houston’s East Downtown that will convert existing warehouse space into a retail-focused destination. The company has broken ground on the initial phase after closing construction financing and purchasing two warehouse properties that will serve as the foundation for the first stage of the development.
The Phase 1 site is anchored by warehouse buildings at 1107 Hutchins Street and 2202 Dallas Street. Each of the two structures totals 15,000 square feet, providing a combined 30,000 square feet of space for the initial round of retail conversions. These properties form the core of the first phase as Pagewood moves forward with repositioning the industrial buildings for retail use.
As leasing progresses, Pagewood has already secured its first tenant, signing a lease with a sushi concept for space within East Blocks. Retail leasing for the project is being led by Brooks Shanklin and Claire Salazar of Blue Ox Group, who are tasked with bringing additional retailers to the development. Their work will shape the initial merchandising mix as the district takes form.
Design for Phase 1 is being led by Gensler, which is overseeing architecture and design for the adaptive reuse of the warehouse buildings. Landscape architecture is being handled by SWA, which is responsible for the outdoor and public-realm components of the project. Together, the design teams are focused on transitioning the existing industrial assets into a more pedestrian-oriented environment.
Phase 1 of East Blocks is expected to be completed in August 2026, establishing the first piece of what Pagewood describes as a broader vision for the area. The long-term concept for East Blocks is a walkable, mixed-use district centered on food, retail, and community-driven experiences, with Phase 1 serving as the initial step in that multi-phase build-out.
By reusing existing warehouses in East Downtown rather than pursuing ground-up construction, Pagewood is advancing a strategy that leverages existing building stock while introducing new retail options to the neighborhood. The combination of secured construction financing, an initial retail lease, and defined design and delivery timelines positions Phase 1 as a key early milestone in the evolution of East Blocks.
The post Pagewood Breaks Ground on East Blocks Retail Conversion in Houston’s East Downtown appeared first on CRE Market Beat.
“}]]
