River Oaks. Even when taken separately, the words appeal. But added together, they exemplify gracious living in Houston, Texas. Here is an exceptional collection of splendid mansions, secluded estates and lovely homes. Manicured lawns and profusions of azaleas beneath ancient trees. A sanctuary of calm within the city.

Without question, this is Houston’s best known neighborhood. And deservedly so.

In 1923, the founders of River Oaks wrote these words: “(Our) aim and ideal is to produce for the Houston citizen of discriminating taste a complete community in the most advantageous locality.”

That those visionaries - brother Will and Mike Hog, sons of a great Houston family, and their friend Hugh Potter - succeeded is evident in the sense of order and serenity you will feel when entering the River Oaks area from the great city that surrounds it.

As it has been since its beginnings, the centerpiece of River Oaks is its namesake boulevard, a broad avenue of stately houses leading to the River Oaks Country Club’s grand portico. Spreading out from this hub today are residential choices in Avalon Place, Royden Oaks, Oak Estates, Kettering Oaks, Afton Oaks, Highland Village/Lynn Park and Glendower Court. These neighborhoods have flourished and matured over the years. Great homes, old and new, pay tribute to a wealth of architectural styles - chateau, plantation, Spanish, Tudor, Palladian and traditionally styled one-stories - creating what has been described as “elegant individuality.”

And the River Oaks vicinity is now in thoughtful transition. New construction keeps pace with addition and renovation. The 80’s and 90’s have seen the development of handsome patio and garden designs.

At the borders of River Oaks and the surrounding neighborhoods are a host of services that make living in this neighborhood such an easy pleasure: boutique shopping centers, choice restaurants and a host of ancillary services.