Houston's commercial office development sector in 2025 reflects both resilience and reinvention. With availability nearing 26%, developers and owners are pivoting away from large-scale new builds and embracing adaptive reuse and conversion projects as the new norm.
While only 630,000 SF of new office construction is currently underway, more than 6.7M SF of office-to-other-use conversions are planned or in progress. This striking imbalance signals a clear market shift: rather than building more traditional towers, Houston is leaning into transformation by repurposing office space to meet evolving demand.
New projects are not disappearing altogether, but they're taking a different shape. Instead of vertical office towers, we're seeing more mixed-use developments that combine retail, multifamily, flex/warehouse, and office into one integrated destination. A prime example is Autry Park, which exemplifies how developments can create a dynamic, multi-use environment that attracts both tenants and the community.
At ICO, we're proud to be directly involved in this wave of innovation. Our Citadel Office Condo project at 217 Promenade Way in Sugar Land's Telfair community showcases the growing appeal of office condos. What makes office condos unique is that they can be sold or leased, serving everyone from traditional office users and medical practices to distribution, supply chain, and even retail businesses. Owners can occupy their space or lease it out and act as a landlord, making the condo model an excellent example of adaptive reuse in action.
While traditional office construction has slowed, Houston's development story is far from stagnant. The city is leading with strategic reuse, premium spaces, and innovative formats rather than broad-based expansion. For developers, investors, and occupiers, the opportunity lies in embracing this shift, where flexibility, quality, and creative reimagining define the future of Houston’s office landscape.
- Timothy Brown, ICO Associate
STRONGER TOGETHER: ICO'S SUMMER COOKOUT AND POOL PARTY
Our ICO team recently came together for a summer cookout and pool party, welcoming colleagues and their families. It was a perfect day to connect, share good food, and watch the kids delight in fun activities together.
Events like this highlight that our team's true strength extends outside of the workplace. At ICO, we value opportunities to create shared memories, not only among team members, but also with their families. These gatherings are evidence of the culture we've built together, and we cherish every chance to strengthen our bonds as a team.
GETTING TO KNOW LANG MOTES
1. What's one food you could eat every day and never get tired of?
"Oreos."
2. Beach vacation or mountain getaway? Why?
"The beach. There's nothing like the sound of the ocean to recharge and reset."
3. What's your "secret weapon" when it comes to prospecting or negotiations?
"For prospecting, I focus on uncovering ways to solve clients' challenges and provide solutions that lead to smarter, more profitable real estate decisions.
In negotiations, I believe in being both fair and assertive, always keeping my clients' top priorities front and center."
4. Summary of your business and who an ideal client/prospect might be?
"I work with investor-owners who are buying, holding, or selling commercial properties. My focus is on helping them maximize both the income potential and long-term value of their assets, so they can achieve their financial goals with confidence."
Catch up with what’s been happening in Montgomery County, from New Caney’s rapid rise in population and bold infrastructure plans, to projects underway like Valley Ranch and the East Montgomery County Convention Center. Whether you’re an investor, resident, or just curious, this edition is packed with the momentum driving tomorrow’s growth.
Didn’t get a chance to read it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Click the link below to read our August newsletter.
