Katie F.
Yelp
If you're a native Houstonian like me, you've probably heard of Project Row Houses a few times in your life, but you've never visited. It's time to change that.
I don't think there's another space in Houston that exudes such creativity, cultural understanding, and respect for art and people of all kinds. Spanning 4 city blocks, Project Row Houses includes the famous row houses with rotating art installations, countless outdoor sculptures and murals, a playground/garden space with more art, housing for low-and-mid income residents, housing and programs for young mothers, and educational programs for young people. Above all, it centers around the third ward community that is, because of its proximity to all things midtown, in danger of becoming Houston's next condoland.
When you go, first stop by the headquarters of Project Row Houses. It's a brick building next to the row houses. There's some great info to get you started on your quest as you walk in the door, and if you're lucky like I was, you might happen upon some men engaged in a serious game of dominoes. Rick, one of the domino players, gave me a good intro to the place and called up Ashley, the Public Arts Manager, to show me the lay of the land. I spent the good part of 2 hours wandering the premises, and I left with a new appreciation of art itself and a much better understanding of the third ward.
As for the art, both inside the houses and outside, it's mind-bending. Take your time, explore all the nooks and crannies, and make sure you haven't missed anything. Don't forget the flower man, either: he's not officially part of Project Row Houses, but he's right next door. Flower man's house is decorated with wacky fixtures of all kinds, and he's an masterpiece himself.