A Houston attorney-turned-developer is moving forward with a $4.5 million project to repurpose two former lumber facilities on the city’s East Side into an event venue and boutique hotel.
Arlette Molina, who previously worked as a lawyer before entering real estate, is redeveloping the connected Olshan Lumber buildings at 2501 Commerce Street and 25 Live Oak Alley. The warehouse at 2501 Commerce Street will be converted into a 37,000-square-foot exhibition hall and event space. The adjacent former lumber offices will become a 96-room boutique hotel featuring a rooftop bar.
The exhibition hall is expected to open in November with the Balloon Museum, an international art installation known for its large inflatable sculptures. Conejo Architecture is designing the $450,000 warehouse conversion. Molina stated she is working “seven days a week” to meet the opening deadline, adding that weddings, quinceañeras, and private events are also planned for the venue.
The hotel portion of the project aims to be ready for guests ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The redevelopment will add two floors to the existing historic structure from 1938, resulting in a four-story building totaling 78,700 square feet. MCS Architects designed the $4 million hotel project, which will not operate under a major brand when it opens.
Molina purchased the properties in 2019 through her company Bonita Grand Holdings and began planning last year after advising real estate clients in Florida.
This development comes amid other boutique hotel projects in Houston’s hospitality sector. For example, Bunkhouse Hotels from Austin is developing Hotel Daphne at 347 West 20th Street with plans to open in early 2026.
Houston’s East End has seen increased development activity recently. Notably, there is an ongoing $1 billion expansion of the George R. Brown Convention Center intended to better connect the area with downtown by adding new space and an outdoor plaza.
“I’m working seven days a week,” Molina told Houston Business Journal regarding efforts to complete construction on schedule.
