If you stand beneath the graceful arches of Rice University’s classic Lovett Hall, spreading out around you will be a beautiful and green cluster of communities. From the gated seclusion of Shadyside to the energetic mix of young professionals and long-time citizens that typifies Bellaire, all of these inner-city neighborhoods still share certain invaluable advantages: immediate accessibility to the best things in life, civic pride, a family perspective and diligence in preserving the value of their properties and the uniqueness of their lifestyles.

West University Place: Small town charm, superb educational and athletic opportunities for children and highly regarded city services wait just outside each front door in this city-within-a-city. Add to all this The Village shopping center with its stylish retailers and flavorful restaurants and a West U home becomes a prized possession.

Southside Place: Surrounded by West U, is this incorporated city of 400-plus homes, where slightly larger lots accommodate some of today’s most stylish residential architecture.

Southampton: Southampton carefully preserves its enviable appeal as a premier family neighborhood and is justifiably proud of its fine park and lifestyle.

Boulevard Oaks: Families, academics and professionals favor its atmosphere, which is both eclectic and aristocratic.

The Museum District: The mature neighborhoods nearest the university give and take their unique character from the many cultural institutions with which they coexist: museums, parks, planetarium, zoo and Rice University. The world-renowned Texas Medical Center is another donor to the area’s vibrant life. The Museum District presents a generous choice of homes in some of Houston’s most historic addresses: Shadyside - Originally designed in 1916 “for a few congenial friends and neighbors,” the 18 properties behind its gates bespeak dignity combined with discretion. Shadowlawn - A single, secluded street hosting some of the most beautiful examples of residential design. Broadacres - An historic district with classic mansions and manicured lawns.

Southgate: Bordering Rice University campus, Southgate’s civic spirit and deed restrictions are twin guards of the shaded streets that meander past its homes.