Life after 80
The old Sears building on Main in Midtown Houston has come back to life in a big way since it closed in 2018. After almost two years and $100 million in renovations, the former department store that opened in 1939 now houses Houston’s new tech hub, called The Ion. The building totals 288,000 s.f. and has dedicated academic space for innovation research, along with offices, collaboration areas, and a grand staircase with seating for 250 people. And don’t forget the food! The Ion will be home to some amazing new hospitality concepts. PRISM worked with design firm HOOD/C on marketing renderings for the anticipated new concept from Lucille’s Hospitality Group, Late August. According to chef and co-owner Dawn Burrell, the menu will “explore the soul of Afro-Asian flavors.” The restaurant name pays homage to Sears; the name references the time of year when the retailer mailed its holiday catalog, the wish book.
