Looking for an apartment near KBR‘s corporate headquarters in downtown Houston? Here’s a quick guide to five top options within walking distance, offering convenience, modern amenities, and various price points. Whether you prioritize a short commute, pet-friendly features, or budget-friendly options, this list has something for you.
Key Options:
- Elev8: 4-minute walk via a skywalk, rents from $1,700/month, modernized historic building with smart home tech.
- Skyline at Midtown: 12-minute walk, rents from $1,450/month, METRORail access, resort-style amenities.
- 1810 Main: 15-minute walk, rents from $1,305/month, pet spa, social lounge, and modern design.
- SoDo on Main: 12-minute walk, rents from $1,413/month, rooftop tennis court and skyline views.
- Houston House: 15-minute walk, rents from $1,011/month, workforce housing discounts, retro charm.
Quick Comparison Table
| Complex | Walk Time | Starting Rent | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elev8 | 4 min | $1,700 | Skywalk access, smart home tech |
| Skyline | 12 min | $1,450 | METRORail access, resort amenities |
| 1810 Main | 15 min | $1,305 | Pet spa, modern design |
| SoDo on Main | 12 min | $1,413 | Rooftop tennis court |
| Houston House | 15 min | $1,011 | Workforce housing discounts |
Each property offers unique features tailored for professionals working near KBR Tower. Read on for detailed descriptions, amenities, and tips to find your perfect home.
1. Elev8
Elev8, located at 1801 Smith Street, transforms a 1972 office tower into a modern 20-story residential building just 0.4 miles from KBR Tower. With a quick 4-minute skywalk connection, it offers a hassle-free commute for KBR employees, keeping them dry during Houston’s frequent rainstorms[3][4].
The residences boast floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning downtown views[4], with ceiling heights between 11.4 and 18.9 feet[3][5]. Elev8 combines the charm of historic architecture with sleek, modern design, catering to corporate professionals working in nearby energy hubs.
Apartments range from studios to three-bedroom units, spanning 589 to 1,940 square feet, with rents starting at $1,700 per month[3]. Features include:
- Kitchens designed for chefs, complete with quartz countertops and smart home technology
- Smart locks and thermostats, plus Amazon Echo Dot integration
- Double-height windows in select units and custom walk-in closets
- Private terraces with electric grills for select third-floor units
The building also offers amenities tailored to busy professionals:
- A resort-style pool with a lounge deck and grilling stations[6]
- A fitness studio featuring an indoor/outdoor yoga room[4]
- Multiple workspaces for both collaboration and privacy
- Electric vehicle charging stations[3]
With its mix of convenience, style, and functionality, Elev8 appeals to those seeking a balance between work and relaxation.
2. Skyline at Midtown
Skyline at Midtown combines city living with resort-style perks, located just 0.8 miles from KBR Tower – a 12-minute walk or a quick 4-minute drive. Found at 707 Saulnier St in Houston’s lively Midtown area, this six-story building has been a part of the neighborhood since 2015[2]. Though it’s a bit farther than Elev8, the METRORail Red Line ensures a convenient 7-minute ride to KBR’s Jefferson Street station[8].
The building offers 269 units with 10-11′ ceilings, ranging in size from 663 to 1,243 square feet[1][8]. Rent starts at $1,450 for one-bedroom units and goes up to $2,345 for larger options[7][8]. With 34 different one- and two-bedroom layouts to choose from, some units even include wraparound balconies overlooking the pool[1].
Inside the units, you’ll find wood-style flooring, Energy Star® stainless steel appliances, and walk-in closets. Select units also feature private balconies with extra storage.
Amenities at Skyline include:
- A resort-style pool with a sun shelf, cabanas, and a hydrotherapy spa
- An executive conference room for meetings
- A Skylounge with a gourmet kitchen and stunning downtown views[1]
- Underground basement parking[1]
- A gated dog park complete with a wash station[1][7]
The area also boasts a variety of well-loved local dining spots nearby[8].
| Unit Type | Size (sq ft) | Rent (utilities not included) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | 663 – 850 | $1,450 |
| 2 Bedroom | 851 – 1,243 | $1,875 |
3. 1810 Main
Located just 0.6 miles from KBR Tower, 1810 Main (opened in 2023) combines modern design with a prime downtown location. Residents are within a 15-minute walk to KBR Tower, making it ideal for those who value convenience[9]. Unlike older buildings like Elev8, this complex was designed from the ground up and offers 284 units featuring 9-foot ceilings and large windows for plenty of natural light[9].
| Unit Type | Size (sq ft) | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 569 | $1,305 |
| 1 Bedroom | 668-998 | $1,635-$1,945 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,004-1,351 | $1,995-$2,875 |
What sets 1810 Main apart is its mix of amenities. It boasts a social lounge with arcade games and a resort-style pool[13]. Other shared spaces include a fire lounge terrace and a covered dog park complete with a grooming station, making it a great choice for pet owners[9][13].
Practical features include secure parking for $25/month, a business center, and in-unit laundry for added convenience[9][12]. Move-in costs include a $175 deposit and a $75 application fee[11][12]. Its location near Discovery Green and Minute Maid Stadium adds to its appeal for those who want to enjoy Houston’s downtown attractions[10][11].
4. SoDo on Main
Located just 0.9 miles from KBR Tower, SoDo on Main offers a dual-tower complex with studio to three-bedroom apartments, all boasting downtown views. This 24-story property blends urban living with upscale amenities and is conveniently close to Toyota Center, Minute Maid Park, and Discovery Green[14].
| Unit Type | Starting Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,413 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,617 |
| 2 Bedroom | $2,227 |
| 3 Bedroom | $2,715 |
The 24th floor features a saline pool complete with a fire pit kitchen, tennis court, and breathtaking skyline views[15]. Inside, apartments are designed with hardwood floors, granite countertops, and floor-to-ceiling windows equipped with solar shades[15]. Each unit includes full-sized washers and dryers, along with energy-efficient appliances[16]. Select apartments also come with private balconies and built-in desks[17].
Standout amenities include:
- A 24-hour fitness center with on-demand workout options[15]
- A fully-equipped business center[17]
- A tennis court for recreation[15]
The METRORail station right outside ensures a quick 12-minute commute to KBR Tower[18], offering a transit convenience similar to Skyline at Midtown but closer to KBR’s core. The community also organizes professional networking events, making it a hub for a diverse group of professionals[14].
For those relocating, furnished units and 24/7 concierge services simplify the process[16][17]. The property also features secure access systems for added peace of mind[17].
5. Houston House
Houston House, just 0.7 miles from KBR Tower in downtown Houston’s Skyline District, is a 31-story building that first opened its doors in 1966. This historic property combines retro charm with updated features, offering apartments ranging from studios to two-bedroom units, sized between 428 and 1,455 square feet[21][19][23].
| Unit Type | Size Range (sq ft) | Starting Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Studio | 428-550 | $1,011 |
| 1 Bedroom | 680-850 | $1,225 |
| 2 Bedroom | 1,100-1,455 | $1,750 |
What sets Houston House apart is its workforce housing program. This initiative reserves apartments for middle-income professionals at below-market rates, making it an attractive option for KBR employees looking for affordable living close to work. Plus, it’s just a 15-minute walk to KBR Tower, making it super convenient for commuters[23].
Interior Highlights
- Floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing downtown views
- Updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances
- Granite countertops and subway tile backsplashes
- Select units feature private balconies[22]
Amenities with a Retro Touch
The building’s amenities pay homage to its mid-century origins while offering modern perks:
- Rooftop sun deck with a heated pool and skyline views
- Indoor basketball court
- Game veranda with ping pong and foosball tables
- Amazon package concierge and around-the-clock maintenance services[20][21][23]
Commuting and Accessibility
- Designated Uber pickup/dropoff area
- Covered garage parking
- Easy access to Interstate 45 and State Highway 288
Houston House also incorporates eco-friendly practices, like low-flow fixtures and digital leasing processes[23]. Lease terms range from 3 to 18 months, with straightforward fees: a $175 deposit and a $175 administrative fee[19][23]. This makes it a practical choice for those seeking urban living in the heart of Houston.
Quick Comparison Guide
Here’s a quick look at what makes each property stand out for KBR professionals:
| Complex | Walk Time | Highlight | Starting Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elev8 | 4 min | Covered skywalk for easy access | $1,700 |
| Skyline | 12 min | Next to METRORail Red Line | $1,450 |
| 1810 Main | 15 min | Pet spa and social lounge | $1,305 |
| SoDo | 12 min | Rooftop tennis court | $1,413 |
| Houston House | 15 min | Income-based discounts available | $1,011 |
Key Considerations
Here’s what each property brings to the table for KBR employees:
- Elev8: Enjoy a weather-protected commute thanks to the direct skywalk connection.
- Skyline at Midtown: Conveniently located right along the METRORail Red Line.
- 1810 Main: Features modern amenities, including a pet spa and social lounge.
- SoDo on Main: Offers rooftop activities with stunning downtown views.
- Houston House: Provides discounted rates through a workforce housing program.
For more details on amenities, floor plans, and availability, check out the listings above.
Summary and Next Steps
With a variety of choices ranging from historic renovations to sleek modern towers, streamline your apartment search with these practical steps:
Focus on What Matters Most
Reach out to leasing offices to schedule tours. Pay attention to standout features like Elev8’s skywalk access or 1810 Main’s pet spa. Prioritize amenities and commuting needs when planning your visits.
Get Your Documents Ready:
- Proof of income (typically 3x the rent) and employment history
- A valid photo ID
- Details of your rental history
Leverage Free Locator Services
Services like Taco Street can help coordinate tours and provide market insights to simplify your search.
Time It Right
Keep an eye on seasonal rent trends to potentially save money.
Look at the Full Picture
Don’t just focus on the rent. Compare all associated costs, such as:
- Parking availability and fees
- Average utility costs
- Pet-related policies
- Amenity charges
For added convenience, contact leasing offices for virtual tours and early booking options. Starting your search early can help you lock in your preferred layout, whether it’s SoDo’s rooftop perks or Houston House’s income-based programs.
