Historic Houston properties set for walkable retail, dining makeover

Houston’s East Downtown is stepping into its next chapter.

Two 80-year-old warehouses in EaDo—totaling 30,000 square feet— will undergo major makeovers,  ultimately hosting a variety of restaurants and shops. The buildings, located at 1107 Hutchins and 2202 Dallas streets, will anchor the first phase of a broader development known as East Blocks—a mixed-use district with food, retail and community-driven experiences.

PAGEWOOD—the Houston-based real estate investment and operating firm behind the project—recently acquired the properties and closed on construction financing.

“East Blocks reflects a long-term belief in EaDo and the kind of place it’s becoming,” Mat Volz, managing principal of PAGEWOOD, said. “As the project has evolved, our commitment to that vision has only strengthened.”

Construction on the first phase, set to wrap up in August, will include comprehensive exterior improvements, enhanced storefronts, outdoor patios with pavers, new lighting and a landscape overhaul. 

On the interior, developers will install new HVAC and mechanical systems, conduct foundation repairs and roof reinforcement, all while “preserving the buildings’ original warehouse character and interior roof structures,” according to the release.

Handies Douzo, a Houston-based handroll and sushi bar, has signed the first retail lease for 2,000 square feet at 1107 Hutchins. Patrick Pham and Daniel Lee, owners of Handies Douzo, said the decision to move into East Blocks was an intentional choice, highlighting EaDo’s authenticity, energy and walkability.

Developers said they envision East Blocks as “an authentic, walkable destination rooted in the character of EaDo,” according to the release.

8th Wonder Brewery, which currently operates from 2202 Dallas Street, will continue operations while construction is underway.

Developers say future phases are in the pipeline and will expand upon the foundation built at 1107 Hutchins and 2202 Dallas streets. For the first phase, Gensler is leading architecture and design, with SWA heading landscape architecture.