Wes Anderson, the celebrated director known for his whimsical storytelling and meticulous visual style, may be synonymous with European landscapes and pastel-colored world, but his journey began in the heart of Texas.

Born in Houston in 1969, Anderson’s early years in the city laid the foundation for his unique cinematic voice. His second feature film, Rushmore (1998), is not only a cult classic but also a love letter to his hometown.

Growing Up in Houston

St. John’s Private School

Anderson attended St. John’s School, a prestigious private institution in Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood. It was here that he first began experimenting with filmmaking, using his father’s Super 8 camera to shoot silent films starring his brothers and friends. His early ambition was to be a writer, but storytelling through film quickly became his passion.

After graduating from St. John’s in 1987, Anderson studied philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin, where he met Owen Wilson. The two would go on to collaborate on several screenplays, beginning with Bottle Rocket and continuing with Rushmore, The Royal Tenenbaums, Life Aquatic,…

Rushmore: A Houston Story

Released in 1998, Rushmore tells the story of Max Fischer, a precocious and eccentric student at the fictional Rushmore Academy. Max’s relentless pursuit of extracurricular glory, despite his academic failings, sets the stage for a quirky coming-of-age tale filled with heartbreak, ambition, and theatrical flair.

The film was shot entirely in and around Houston, with many locations drawn directly from Anderson’s own life:

• Rushmore Academy is actually St. John’s School, Anderson’s alma mater, located at 2401 Claremont Lane.
• Grover Cleveland High School, where Max is sent after being expelled, is Lamar High School, just
  

  Lamar High School

  across the street from St. John’s.

• Max’s home is at 108 Emerald Court in Northside Village, next to Hollywood Cemetery, where scenes of Max visiting his mother’s grave were filmed.
• Doug and Don’s Barber Shop on East Eleventh Street served as the location for Max’s father’s business.
• Delmar Stadium was used for scenes involving kite flying and airplane arrivals.
• Saw Pipes USA Inc. (now Jindal Pipes) in Baytown stood in for Blume International, the factory owned by Bill Murray’s character.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Though modest at the box office, Rushmore was a critical success and marked a turning point in Anderson’s career. It introduced Jason Schwartzman in his film debut and helped redefine Bill Murray’s career, establishing him as a beloved figure in indie cinema.

The film’s quirky tone, stylized visuals, and British Invasion soundtrack became hallmarks of Anderson’s style. It also earned Anderson the Independent Spirit Award for Best Director and a Golden Globe nomination for Murray. In 2016, Rushmore was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”.

A Personal Tribute

Rushmore is a deep personal tribute to Anderson’s youth, Houston, Texas, and the bittersweet experience of growing up. The Houston locations are not just backdrops; they’re characters in their own right, infused with nostalgia and authenticity.

For Houstonians, Rushmore is a cinematic time capsule. For film lovers, it’s a masterclass in storytelling. And for Wes Anderson, it remains one of his most heartfelt creations.

Here’s to Houston, one of the, if not the most underrated city in the world.

Nestled in the heart of Houston, Hermann Park is a living testament to the city’s growth, vision, and community spirit. Spanning over 445 acres, this beloved park has evolved dramatically since its inception, becoming a cornerstone of Houston’s cultural and recreational life.

The Origins: A Gift to the City

Hermann Park was established in 1914, thanks to a generous land donation from George H. Hermann, a Houston businessman and philanthropist. His vision was to create a public space that would serve all Houstonians, regardless of background. The park was designed by renowned landscape architect George Kessler, whose plan emphasized harmony between natural beauty and urban accessibility.

Early Development and Iconic Features

Throughout the early 20th century, Hermann Park began to take shape with the addition of key landmarks:

• Sam Houston Monument (1925): A tribute to the hero of Texas independence.
• Hermann Park Golf Course (1922): One of the earliest municipal golf courses in the U.S.
• Reflection Pool and Miller Outdoor Theatre: These became cultural hubs, hosting performances and gatherings that brought the community together.

Community Engagement and Conservation

In the late 1950s, Marvin Taylor, a Third Ward resident, began jogging along an old carriage trail in the park. His grassroots efforts to clear and maintain the trail led to the founding of the Hermann Park Joggers, Runners, and Walkers group in 1987; a citizen-run nonprofit dedicated to preserving the trail and promoting fitness.

By the 1990s, Hermann Park faced challenges from decades of wear and underfunding. In response, the Hermann Park Conservancy was formed in 1992. This public-private partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department aimed to restore and revitalize the park. Landscape architect Laurie Olin was commissioned to develop a master plan that would guide improvements while honoring the park’s historic character.

A Centennial Celebration and Modern Renaissance

In 2014, Hermann Park celebrated its 100th anniversary with a series of enhancements, including:

• McGovern Centennial Gardens: A stunning horticultural addition featuring themed gardens and a spiral mount.
• Improved trails, signage, and accessibility: Making the park more welcoming and navigable for all visitors.

The Commons: A New Chapter in Play and Community

In recent years, Hermann Park has continued its legacy of innovation and inclusivity with the development of The Commons, a transformative project designed to reimagine 26 acres in the park’s southwest corner. At the heart of this revitalization is the Hermann Park Commons Playground, a state-of-the-art play area that blends nature, creativity, and accessibility.

This new playground features:

• Interactive water elements for cooling off during Houston’s hot summers.
• Nature-inspired climbing structures that encourage imaginative play.
• Inclusive design to ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the space.
• Shaded seating and gathering areas for families and caregivers.

The Commons is a vibrant community space that includes native plant gardens, art zones, and gathering areas, all designed to foster connection and exploration. It reflects Hermann Park Conservancy’s commitment to sustainability, education, and public art.

Today, Hermann Park continues to thrive as a dynamic space for recreation, education, and cultural enrichment. From pedal boats on McGovern Lake to art installations and festivals, the park remains a vibrant reflection of Houston’s diversity and resilience.

Nestled at the gateway to Houston’s Museum District and overlooking the lush expanse of Hermann Park, Hotel ZaZa Houston is more than just a luxury boutique hotel – it’s a living piece of the city’s history, reimagined with flair, fantasy, and sophistication.

From Warwick to ZaZa: A Storied Past

Before it became the eclectic and glamorous Hotel ZaZa in 2007, the building was known as The Warwick Hotel, one of Houston’s first luxury hotels. Built in 1926, the Warwick quickly became a city icon, renowned for its elegant architecture and breathtaking views.

The hotel was designed by Joseph Finger, a prominent Houston architect best known for designing Houston’s iconic City Hall. His work on the Warwick reflected the grandeur and sophistication of early 20th-century design, blending classical elements with modern luxury.

Legendary entertainer Bob Hope once called the view from the top of the Warwick “the most beautiful I’ve ever seen.” The hotel was purchased by oil tycoon John Mecom Sr in 1962 and underwent renovations before reopening in 1964. Decades later, the transformation into Hotel ZaZa brought a bold new identity to the historic structure, blending its classic bones with modern opulence and artistic flair.

Location, Location, Location

Hotel ZaZa sits at 5701 Main Street, right in the heart of Houston’s Museum District. It’s surrounded by cultural gems like the Museum of Fine Arts, Contemporary Arts Museum, Holocaust Museum, and Houston Museum of Natural Science. Rice University is just a short walk away, and the METRORail station across the street offers easy access to Downtown and the Texas Medical Center.

The hotel’s proximity to Hermann Park and the Mecom Fountain adds a serene, picturesque charm to its urban setting, making it a perfect base for both leisure and business travelers.

A Feast for the Senses

Hotel ZaZa is known for its whimsical and luxurious design. From velvet furnishings and crystal chandeliers to themed fantasy suites, every corner of the hotel is curated to surprise and delight. The top floor features the Magnificent Seven Suites, each with its own theme—like the “Rock Star Suite” or “Black Label”—designed to fulfill your wildest dreams. One suite even includes an outdoor bathtub on the balcony, offering panoramic views of the city.

The Gothic-Themed Room: “Hard Times”

Among ZaZa’s most talked-about rooms is Room 322, nicknamed “Hard Times”, which has gained internet fame for its gothic dungeon-like aesthetic. This compact room features exposed brick walls, chains linking the bed to the wall, and eerie artwork, including portraits of long-necked, large-eyed characters and a mysterious figure believed to resemble a former financial executive.

Guests have described it as a “goth dungeon closet”, and while it’s smaller than typical ZaZa rooms, it’s fully equipped and intentionally designed to evoke a playful, jail-like vibe. It’s a favorite for those seeking a quirky, offbeat experience—and yes, the hotel will happily move you to a more traditional room if it’s not your style.

Dining & Wellness

The hotel’s signature restaurant, Monarch, is helmed by local celebrity chefs and serves Gulf Coast-inspired cuisine. Guests rave about dishes like Southern-style shrimp and grits and seared scallops with peas and carrots. The vibe is upscale yet inviting, perfect for romantic dinners or business lunches.

For relaxation, ZaSpa offers a full suite of treatments—from facials to massages—alongside a sauna, steam showers, and an oxygen lounge. The French Riviera-style pool and state-of-the-art gym round out the wellness offerings.

Houston has Character

Whether you are looking for modern, or historic, a good time, or a good story.  Houston has it all.  Reach out with any questions regarding neighborhoods, markets, or simply for a cup of coffee!