The Rice
The Rice Apartments, Houston
Building Price Trend
The Rice Overview and Highlights
Overview
The Rice, Houston: A Historic Landmark with Modern Luxury Living
A Storied History at the Heart of Downtown Houston
The Rice, located at 909 Texas Avenue in Houston, Texas, is an iconic historic building originally completed in 1913. It occupies a site rich in Texas history—previously the location of the Republic of Texas Capitol building and earlier hotel structures. Developed by Jesse H. Jones, the building is the third on this site and has undergone significant expansions and renovations throughout the 20th century. After operating as a hotel until 1977, The Rice underwent a major transformation and reopened as upscale apartments in 1998, preserving its historic essence while adapting to modern urban living.
Architecture and Design: Historic Charm Meets Industrial Modern
Residents of The Rice enjoy loft-style apartments featuring design elements that blend historic character with contemporary sophistication. The residences offer high ceilings ranging from 10 to 18 feet, exposed brick walls, and antique maple hardwood floors, reflecting the building’s storied past. Gourmet kitchens feature quartz countertops, glass tile backsplashes, and expansive islands complemented by refined cabinetry. Bathrooms include luxurious touches such as marble finishes and clawfoot or whirlpool tubs.
Apartment Options and Interiors
The Rice offers a range of living spaces from studios to three-bedroom lofts and penthouses, catering to diverse urban lifestyles. Units are fully upgraded and appointed with:
- Spectacular downtown Houston views
- Refinished maple or polished concrete flooring
- Large walk-in showers and soaking tubs
- In-unit washers and dryers
Amenities That Elevate Urban Living
The Rice stands out for its extensive amenities, designed to nurture a vibrant and upscale lifestyle:
- Historic indoor heated pool, recently renovated
- Fully equipped fitness center with virtual workout options
- Concierge services and complimentary valet parking
- Controlled-access parking garage
- Multiple resident lounges including a club level on the second floor
- Outdoor terrace lounge with gas grills, fireplace, and TVs
- Historic Crystal Ballroom available for residents
- Guest suites and dry cleaning services on-site
- Convenient access to Houston’s underground tunnels and Metrorail
Prime Location in Houston’s Historic District
Set in downtown’s historic district, The Rice offers unparalleled access to cultural and entertainment hotspots. Residents can walk to Market Square Park, AMC Houston Movie Theatre, Houston Ballet, Sundance Theatre, and numerous acclaimed restaurants and retail options such as Azuma, Chipotle, Lawless Bar, Sambuca, and Shay’s Irish Pub. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy proximity to Buffalo Bayou Trails and a fenced dog park at Market Square.
Timeless Elegance with a Contemporary Edge
The Rice represents an iconic fusion of Houston’s rich heritage and dynamic present. Its elegant yet modern living spaces, state-of-the-art amenities, and prime downtown location provide a sophisticated urban community with a unique charm that resonates with its historic background. This prestigious building continues to be a landmark destination for those seeking an elevated downtown Houston lifestyle.
Address
909 Texas Ave, Houston, TX
Building Type
Rental
Year Built / Renovated
1913 / 2015
Amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
Location & Neighborhood
Downtown - Midtown

As two of Houston’s most accessible and walkable neighborhoods, living in Midtown or Downtown will make you feel like you possess the keys to the city. Located southwest of Downtown and separated from it by Interstate 45, Midtown’s affordability, cultural attractions, and culinary scene caused the number of residents moving there to double in the past few years. Then, there’s Downtown. Literally in the dead center of H-Town, this part of the city hosts every major event you can catch on your TV screen, including the NBA All-Star Game and the Super Bowl. This neighborhood’s skyscraper-filled streets also mark its status as the business and commercial center of the Lone Star state’s biggest city. Both areas remain perpetual favorites amongst locals for a night out on the town due to their abundance of charming cocktail bars, whimsical coffee shops, retail shopping hot spots, performance venues, and nightlife destinations.
From The Blog
Disclaimer
Pricing, availability, and concessions are subject to change at any time and without notice. Photos may be of various model units and apartment availability and lease terms may vary. Information is believed to be accurate, however is subject to errors and omissions. The accuracy of all information, regardless of source, including but not limited to square footages and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be personally verified through personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professionals.