Midway, the privately owned real estate investment, development and management firm that created City Centre and the upcoming East River project, announced plans Thursday to transform the old ConocoPhillips’ campus into Watermark, an environmentally friendly, vibrant, mixed-use development in the heart of The Energy Corridor District.
The sprawling 70-acre campus just north of I-10 at Dairy Ashford and North Eldridge Parkway was designed in 1978 by renowned architect Kevin Roche. He created a campus for ConocoPhillips employees that resembled a Japanese fishing village, connecting office pavilions with bridges spanning ponds and grassy areas.
Now Midway, in a bid to preserve that rich history and minimize carbon impact, will repurpose the campus into Class-A office and multifamily spaces, high-end retail and restaurants and boutique hotel opportunities that will serve a Houston population that is rapidly moving west.
“Watermark will enhance the experience of those who work, live and visit The Energy Corridor District by creating a thriving, walkable destination that caters to all,” said District Executive Director Elijah J. Williams.
“The innovative, environmentally sustainable features Midway has planned for Watermark are consistent with the values of the District and our major employers, who are leading the global energy transition. An amazing example of the future of energy for commercial properties, Watermark creates a spark for The Energy Corridor District’s continued growth,” Williams added.
Midway Chairman and CEO Brad Freels said Watermark will provide office space that provides a post-pandemic world with the natural light, outdoor settings and mixed-use amenities they seek. An innovation hub will be designed to attract cutting-edge companies to the District.
Watermark will also offer after-hours entertainment with chef-driven restaurants, cafes and bars with waterfront views and a boutique hotel for short- and long-term stays.
“At Midway, we are passionate about building remarkable places that endure, and sustainability is at the forefront of our approach,” Freels said in a statement.
“Watermark is a prime example of our future-oriented mindset. It’s an urbanization of the suburban experience in one of the fastest growing regions in Houston. We look forward to introducing a thoughtful and environmentally friendly mixed-use environment that not only sets the stage for future growth and innovation in the area but also brings the West Houston community together for generations to come,” he added.
For more information about The Energy Corridor District, please visit www.energycorridor.org.
