One Shell Plaza, a prominent office tower in downtown Houston, is set to undergo a $50 million renovation led by global developer Hines. The project aims to revitalize the 910 Louisiana Street property—formerly known as One Shell Plaza—by opening up its ground level with glass walls, new retail spaces, and landscaped green areas.
The renovation comes as downtown landlords face high vacancy rates and shifting tenant expectations following the pandemic. Many tenants now seek more natural light, modern amenities, and active street-level environments. Hines originally constructed the 50-story skyscraper in 1971 as its first major office development but later sold it while remaining as property manager.
Currently leased by Partners Real Estate for owner Busycon Properties, the building has seen significant changes since Shell vacated most of its space and subleased about 800,000 square feet to companies such as NRG Energy. With NRG’s lease expiring in December and their planned departure, occupancy is expected to drop from 86 percent to around 35 percent early next year.
“It’s a conundrum that all landlords are dealing with,” said Mark Janssen, Hines property management director. “Since COVID and working from home, ‘office’ has almost become a dirty word among investors.”
Despite these challenges, Busycon Properties remains optimistic about downtown Houston’s future. According to early construction filings, the renovation will cost approximately $49.6 million and feature floor-to-ceiling glass replacing heavy stone facades. The design includes transparent edges for food and beverage tenants and updates to the plaza area with landscaping, curved paths, and shaded seating.
Other planned upgrades include a 5,000-square-foot terrace and tenant lounge overlooking Smith Street, an improved fitness center, and a new conference facility spanning 9,000 square feet.
“The redevelopment is focusing on the street life experience in and around the building, which is what tenants are craving,” said Chip Colvill of Partners Real Estate.
Busycon joins other downtown Houston landlords investing in renovations to keep older office properties competitive amid changing market conditions.
