In the heart of Dellrose, one of Empire’s most established master-planned communities in Houston, TX, Empire has introduced u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/houston/community/dellrose/category/bloom-series/u0022u003eThe Bloom Seriesu003c/au003e — a collection of four model homes designed to reflect individuality, functionality, and joy. These homes, conceptualized and brought to life by the talented team at Nancy Rae Interiors, offer a unique living experience for potential homeowners, each featuring distinct design packages from Empire’s Essence collection.
u003ch3u003eThe Inspiration Behind The Bloom Seriesu003c/h3u003e
The Bloom Series draws inspiration from the world of flowers, aiming to create homes that are not only functional but also evoke a sense of joy. Each home, while distinct in its design, complements the others, much like a harmonious garden. The u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/houston/community/dellrose/listing/hibiscus/u0022u003eHibiscusu003c/au003e, a modern neutral home, appeals to a broad audience; the u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/houston/community/dellrose/listing/sunflower/u0022u003eSunfloweru003c/au003e introduces pops of color and curated furnishings for an exciting atmosphere; the u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/houston/community/dellrose/listing/orchid-2/u0022u003eOrchidu003c/au003e, inspired by Texas, embraces deep shades of rust and orange; and the u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/houston/community/dellrose/listing/daisy-2/u0022u003eDaisyu003c/au003e, with traditional furnishings and a cottage feel, rounds out the series.

u003ch3u003eMaterials, Textures, and Colorsu003c/h3u003e
In selecting materials and colors, the design team at Nancy Rae Interiors prioritized performance-grade upholstery fabrics for durability and functionality. u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/our-design-team-shares-8-of-the-best-neutral-paint-colors-for-every-room/u0022u003eNeutralu003c/au003e furnishings were chosen to allow for flexibility, ensuring they could be utilized in different model homes, while maintaining individuality through paint colors, pillows, and drapery.

u003ch3u003eThe Design Processu003c/h3u003e
The design process began with collaborative discussions between Nancy Rae Interiors and the Empire team, focusing on community expectations, timelines, and the desired aesthetic. Prioritizing memory points and efficient use of square footage, the design team sought to maximize the potential of each home. All four homes were merchandised to showcase the possibilities within the smaller living spaces, emphasizing the u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/designing-with-intention/u0022u003eflexibility of the floor plansu003c/au003e.

u0026nbsp;

The uniqueness of each home lies in the thoughtful use of flex spaces. From a home office with u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/9-accent-wall-ideas-trending-now/u0022u003eunique wallpaperu003c/au003e to lounge spaces, u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/clever-ways-repurpose-spare-rooms/u0022u003ecraft areasu003c/au003e, and creative extensions of utility spaces, each home showcases different possibilities. The design team aimed to inspire homeowners by demonstrating how they could u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/designer-tips-maximize-every-space-home/u0022u003eoptimize every square footu003c/au003e to suit their lifestyle. u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/how-to-create-a-cool-kids-space/u0022u003eMemorable kids’ roomsu003c/au003e were also crafted to add an element of excitement and personalization.

u003ch3u003eUnique Selling Featuresu003c/h3u003e
Beyond the captivating design and thoughtful layouts, The Bloom Series homes at Dellrose come standard with an array of upgraded features and finishes that exemplify luxury and functionality. The u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/kitchen-upgrades-where-to-save-vs-splurge/u0022u003ekitchensu003c/au003e boast stunning Quartz countertops, providing both durability and a touch of sophistication; the living spaces showcase luxury vinyl-plank flooring, offering a blend of elegance and practicality; and the first floor features a four-side brick exterior, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal, but also ensuring longevity and low maintenance. These upgraded features are not mere additions but integral elements that elevate the living experience, making The Bloom Series a perfect blend of style and substance.

u003ch3u003eOptimizing Square Footage and Utilizing Spaceu003c/h3u003e
The standout feature of The Bloom Series is the optimal use of square footage in each home. Whether it’s creating additional functionality through merchandising or u003ca href=u0022https://empirecommunities.com/blog/make-the-most-of-home-flex-space/u0022u003edesigning memorable flex spacesu003c/au003e, these homes offer versatility. Families of all sizes can envision a comfortable and spacious living experience, making the most of every corner in these thoughtfully-designed homes.
u003ch3u003eThe Design Packagesu003c/h3u003e
Incorporating different Essence collection design packages in each home, The Bloom Series serves as a living showcase of Empire’s design possibilities. Prospective homeowners can walk through these four model homes and witness firsthand how each package transforms the space, creating a unique atmosphere in every room.

u0026nbsp;

Thoughtfully designed to allow for flexibility and personalization, each package within the collection offers a distinct style while providing homeowners with the opportunity to infuse their own preferences seamlessly. This flexibility not only ensures a tailored living experience but also contributes to the efficiency of Empire’s building process.

u0026nbsp;

Interested in learning more about The Bloom Series at Dellrose? Contact Kerrie, our New Home Specialist, at u003ca href=u0022tel:2817295061u0022u003e281-729-5061u003c/au003e.

Some people have a knack for design. Others? The thought of selecting tile that will be a permanent installation in their new home can be terrifying.

We have something meant to take away any anxiety you might have over selecting interior finishes — professionally curated packages available in select communities that give you thoughtful and cohesive choices for flooring, cabinets, backsplashes, paint, and more.

These decor packages are backed by extensive research into popular design and color trends — including what previous Empire buyers have selected for their own homes. Our professional interior decorators take these trends and present them in tasteful packages that will have your home looking like a model home. No more stress, no more second guessing — just a home that looks like it has been professionally decorated (because it has)!

You can see full side boards of the actual selections by visiting a model home in one of the participating communities. Each package will have four different groupings of flooring, cabinets, etc., allowing the buyer to choose which they prefer. The base package will be included in the price of the home and — depending on the community — will include selections such as high-end cabinets, wood-look tile flooring, and quartz countertops. These are often considered upgrades in similarly priced homes but will be included standard for our buyers.

The choices don’t end there, however. Buyers can further personalize their homes by opting to upgrade to other design collections that will have a higher level of options, including the opportunity to select hardware and lighting fixtures.

See the possibilities of having a professionally decorated home by visiting an Empire Communities model home in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio. The design packages are just one way we make the home buying process easy.

Want to learn more about Texas? Discover the top workout spots and the best school districts in the region.

In the heart of Dellrose, one of Empire’s most established master-planned communities in Houston, TX, Empire has introduced The Bloom Series — a collection of four model homes designed to reflect individuality, functionality, and joy. These homes, conceptualized and brought to life by the talented team at Nancy Rae Interiors, offer a unique living experience for potential homeowners, each featuring distinct design packages from Empire’s Essence collection.

The Inspiration Behind The Bloom Series

The Bloom Series draws inspiration from the world of flowers, aiming to create homes that are not only functional but also evoke a sense of joy. Each home, while distinct in its design, complements the others, much like a harmonious garden. The Hibiscus, a modern neutral home, appeals to a broad audience; the Sunflower introduces pops of color and curated furnishings for an exciting atmosphere; the Orchid, inspired by Texas, embraces deep shades of rust and orange; and the Daisy, with traditional furnishings and a cottage feel, rounds out the series.

Materials, Textures, and Colors

In selecting materials and colors, the design team at Nancy Rae Interiors prioritized performance-grade upholstery fabrics for durability and functionality. Neutral furnishings were chosen to allow for flexibility, ensuring they could be utilized in different model homes, while maintaining individuality through paint colors, pillows, and drapery.

The Design Process

The design process began with collaborative discussions between Nancy Rae Interiors and the Empire team, focusing on community expectations, timelines, and the desired aesthetic. Prioritizing memory points and efficient use of square footage, the design team sought to maximize the potential of each home. All four homes were merchandised to showcase the possibilities within the smaller living spaces, emphasizing the flexibility of the floor plans.

The uniqueness of each home lies in the thoughtful use of flex spaces. From a home office with unique wallpaper to lounge spaces, craft areas, and creative extensions of utility spaces, each home showcases different possibilities. The design team aimed to inspire homeowners by demonstrating how they could optimize every square foot to suit their lifestyle. Memorable kids’ rooms were also crafted to add an element of excitement and personalization.

Unique Selling Features

Beyond the captivating design and thoughtful layouts, The Bloom Series homes at Dellrose come standard with an array of upgraded features and finishes that exemplify luxury and functionality. The kitchens boast stunning Quartz countertops, providing both durability and a touch of sophistication; the living spaces showcase luxury vinyl-plank flooring, offering a blend of elegance and practicality; and the first floor features a four-side brick exterior, not only enhancing the aesthetic appeal, but also ensuring longevity and low maintenance. These upgraded features are not mere additions but integral elements that elevate the living experience, making The Bloom Series a perfect blend of style and substance.

Optimizing Square Footage and Utilizing Space

The standout feature of The Bloom Series is the optimal use of square footage in each home. Whether it’s creating additional functionality through merchandising or designing memorable flex spaces, these homes offer versatility. Families of all sizes can envision a comfortable and spacious living experience, making the most of every corner in these thoughtfully-designed homes.

The Design Packages

Incorporating different Essence collection design packages in each home, The Bloom Series serves as a living showcase of Empire’s design possibilities. Prospective homeowners can walk through these four model homes and witness firsthand how each package transforms the space, creating a unique atmosphere in every room.

Thoughtfully designed to allow for flexibility and personalization, each package within the collection offers a distinct style while providing homeowners with the opportunity to infuse their own preferences seamlessly. This flexibility not only ensures a tailored living experience but also contributes to the efficiency of Empire’s building process.

Interested in learning more about The Bloom Series at Dellrose? Contact Kerrie, our New Home Specialist, at 281-729-5061.

Joining the Emory Glen community offers more than just a place to live — it’s a gateway to a family-friendly lifestyle. Residents not only relish the natural beauty of Magnolia but also have opportunities to bond with neighbors in communal spaces designed for connection. Read on to explore the exceptional amenities that set Emory Glen apart, making it an ideal place to call home for years to come.

There’s a lot to love about Emory Glen — so why not call it home? Learn more about Empire’s available homes today.

Next, discover 5 reasons to make the move to Magnolia, and what there is to love about living in North Houston.

Buying a new home is an exciting journey, and selecting the right neighborhood is a crucial step in making your dream home a reality. In Texas, the vibrant cities of Austin, San Antonio, and Houston offer a wide array of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its unique charm and amenities. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top considerations for choosing your perfect neighborhood. With the right guidance and preparation, you’ll soon find the perfect place to call home in one of Texas’ vibrant cities.

To help you along your homebuying journey, check out the benefits of working with our preferred lenders and learn the difference between buying a quick move-in vs. a new-build home.

As the summer sun began to fade and the back-to-school season approached, we launched two heartwarming initiatives that brought us all closer to our communities and supported important causes. Our recent school supply drives in Texas, carried out in partnership with Star of Hope in Houston and the other with Partnerships for Children in Austin, have left us inspired and grateful. Read on to learn more about how our team has succeeded in giving back to communities that have given us so much.

Spreading the Word and Sharing the Love

It takes a team to achieve a dream, and that couldn’t be truer in these cases. At the start of our initiatives, we reached out to our homeowners, vendors, prospects, and realtors, inviting them to be a part of something meaningful. Spreading the word within our model homes and across our Texas communities, we encouraged people to join hands with us in supporting students in need.

Turning Generosity Into a Friendly Competition

Who doesn’t love a little competition? To add some extra excitement to our initiatives, we turned our school drives into contests among our communities. The challenge was simple: who could gather the most supplies and create the most impact? The response was nothing short of phenomenal.

From Model Homes to Office Walls: A Ripple Effect of Kindness

Our initiatives weren’t just confined to our communities. The spirit of giving spread to our office spaces as well. Our team didn’t hesitate to add their own donations to our growing piles of supplies.

The Impact of Small Acts of Kindness

Through the collective efforts of our team in Houston, we were able to donate about 200 items to support students in need with our contributions in Austin being just as successful. Items like notebooks, folders and pencils are simple items but can make a substantial difference in a student’s school life.

Our Continued Efforts of Give Back

Our partnerships with Star of Hope and Partnerships for Children are more than just one-time endeavors. They’re commitments to our communities and uplifting those around us. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who participated, donated, and spread the word. Your involvement has left an indelible mark on our communities and has shown that, when we come together with purpose, remarkable things happen.

Discover some of the other initiatives we’ve been a part of in support of our local communities, including our volunteer day at Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

We’re all reliant on tech, now more than ever. Think about it — we depend on it to tell us the weather forecast, to help us keep track of how long our food has been in the oven, to make phone calls from the car, or blast our favorite song from our soundbar. With smart technologies at the forefront of many parts of our day, we connected with the experts at HomePro to give us the latest on which tech upgrades are worth incorporating into your new home with Empire.

With more people turning to streaming services like Netflix and Hulu for entertainment, as well as many of us working from home, our priorities concerning tech have changed. As Vanessa Smith of the HomePro team explains, “while home protection has been and still is among the top considerations when it comes to smart home features, the stability, coverage and speed of people’s networks are just as important.” With HomePro, you can upgrade your home with a structured wiring system that streams and distributes various data signals throughout your home with ease, creating optimal network strength in frequently-used spaces like Empire’s zoom rooms. Some of the most-popular services we’re seeing homeowners opt for include:

• Smart home systems that interact with alarms, lights, locks, temperature controls, etc.
• Wireless access points
• Surveillance and doorbell cameras
• Central vacuum systems
• Surround-sound theater systems
• Whole-home audio systems and media streamers

Tech has shaped how we live and what we expect of our homes. From automatic lighting and video doorbells that alert you when a package is delivered to outdoor cameras, we’ve all grown accustomed to having these technologies in our homes. When you purchase a new home with Empire, you get access to all these tech upgrades and more provided by HomePro. The benefit? A seamless living experience.

From home protection items like cameras, monitored alarm systems and video doorbells to the fun stuff like surround sound, distributed audio and HD projectors that make for a movie theater experience, HomePro offers it all. Here’s Vanessa’s opinion on what you should allocate dollars to:

• For the budget-conscious: Prewire to support a strong WiFi network. “There are a lot of wireless options for home protection, audio and video, but if you don’t have a strong network, these devices won’t perform well,” she says. According to Vanessa, surveillance cameras are also a great place to start if you’re looking to focus on one area.
• For those with a bigger budget: Prewire for cameras or surround sound. “We have media and theater packages available to bring your at-home entertainment dreams to life,” says Vanessa. “You can also have a central vacuum system installed to make cleaning more convenient.”

HomePro is a Texas-based company which provides home security, entertainment and automation services. Working in collaboration with Empire Communities, their team is responsible for the installation and setup of smart technologies in your new home.

“We always start with the design of the tech infrastructure to make sure it complements how you live. Then, we start dreaming about the fun stuff,” says Vanessa. “Our team will customize your settings and programming just how you like, and make sure you have all the required applications to ensure you and your home are set up for success.”

Just bought a new home in Houston with Empire? Visit HomePro’s showroom at 10110 W Sam Houston Pkwy N to see what smart technology upgrades are available to you or get in touch with a member of their team.

Next, learn more about Empire’s stages of construction in Texas and what you need to know about our homebuying process.

Blending urban elements with contemporary design, the Brisco model at Emory Glen is anything but ordinary. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home in Magnolia, TX spanning 2,393 sq.ft. uses shades of emerald green, deep grayed-down blues, mustard golds, and teal to create a memorable and contemporary urban design, making anyone who enters feel welcome and energized.

“This home is a carefully crafted masterpiece that offers an unparalleled living experience,” says Kendall Schmitt of Nancy Rae Interiors. Warm leathers, deep-colored upholstery, brushed gold metal, and rustic woods complement the overall color scheme — bringing together unexpected elements that make this home a show-stopper.

Discover the inspiration behind the Brisco’s unique design and learn how to curate the urban contemporary home of your dreams.

As the focal point of the home, the living room’s ample size makes it an ideal space for all sorts of activities including game nights, watching movies, or chatting over drinks with friends. Its bright and airy feel is balanced by warm leathers and bold hues of green and blue, and is the perfect segue to the impressive outdoor living area — providing the best of indoor and outdoor living.

If you’re someone who loves to host, this kitchen will not disappoint. An open-concept floor plan keeps the room feeling bright and airy, ensuring you’re always a part of the action. A dark green island and backsplash provide contrast and pops of color, complementing the home’s lush jewel-toned color scheme, while wicker chairs and iron lighting add texture to the space.

The dining room has a transformative quality that can be curated to suit your needs. Its impressive size is the ideal backdrop for kids to complete homework and have a quick breakfast during the week, or for hosting dinner parties on the weekend. “The possibilities are endless when you have a space open to the kitchen,” Kendall explains. An oversized chestnut-colored table adds warmth and texture to the space, complementing blue velour dining chairs for a muted pop of color.

Radiating warmth and comfort, the primary bedroom is the ideal getaway after a long day. Its bold wallpaper and varying wooden textured furnishings make the space memorable, while a green lounge chair is the perfect place to kick back and relax. “Each room has warm textures that act as the perfect canvas for pops of color,” says Kendall. “We used layers of deep jewel tones to create a design that is comfortable, yet energizing.”

Now’s your chance to own a beautiful new home at Emory Glen. Book an appointment via phone or email to tour this stunning model.

Looking for more design inspiration? Discover Kendall’s take on light and bright southern-style and 4 tips to help you create a healthy home environment.

Images courtesy of: Wayfair (Ryandale Upholstered Armchair, Amoret Upholstered Ottoman, Ceramic 3-Piece Kitchen Canister Set, Almina Decorative Bowl, Natural Jute Rectangular Placemat, Frankie Geometric Pendant, Melody Crystal White Wine Glass, Ronaldo Upholstered Lounge Chair, Clematite Handmade Cotton Rug, Lamariana Dining Table, Kora Upholstered Chair); Sundance (Farida Kilim Rug); Paynes Gray (Four Hands Kiera Swivel Chair); World Market (Amolea Vintage Rattan Stool, Long Oval Chestnut Wood Fluted Russo Dining Table); Burke Decor (Eaton Coffee Table, Westport Geometric Wallpaper); Overstock (Alpine Trig Panel Bed).

Designed to radiate light and southern flare, the Archer at Emory Glen is a space you can envision living in for years to come. Designer Kendall Schmitt of Texas’ Nancy Rae Interiors kept this in mind when she curated this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom family home spanning 2,388 sq.ft. in Magnolia, TX.

Clean lines, neutral backdrops, and pops of color create an inviting atmosphere when walking in. “We wanted to put together a color scheme that gives energy and excitement to anyone who enters — a happy home that appeals to everyone,” says Kendall. What did she use to tie it all together? Carefully selected artwork that amplifies the home’s pops of color, while showcasing its luxurious finishes and open-concept design.

Nestled in the main living space of the home, the kitchen’s high ceiling is an instant attention grabber. Neutral tones and high ceilings keep the space feeling spacious and bright, while an open-concept floor plan is ideal for entertaining guests and convenience when cooking.

With multiple windows and easy access to the dining room, the home’s main living space is an entertainer’s dream. Maximized for entertainment and comfort, light-colored staple pieces and a mixed-texture coffee table add a fun touch to the area, while a pastel green rug keeps the space grounded.

With ample space to host parties of 10 or more, the dining room has incredible potential. “The possibilities are endless with this kind of square footage that is open to your living area and kitchen, and also to the home’s outdoor living space,” adds Kendall. The optional sliding door serves as a focal point as you walk into the home, setting the stage for the space’s impressive beige dining table and stunning artwork. A gold-accent chandelier ties the whole look together, while adding texture to the room.

Exuding luxury and warmth, the primary bedroom is an enviable part of the home. The vaulted ceiling makes the space feel open and bright, complemented by sheer drapes, allowing an abundance of natural light into the room. The light wooden furnishings and patterned headboard add a custom touch, with the same pattern from the headboard used on the smaller window’s treatment. “Comfortable, performance-grade upholstery is essential,” says Kendall. “We love functional pieces that keep with the trend of staying light, while still being user-friendly.”

Now’s your chance to own a beautiful new home at Emory Glen. Book an appointment via phone or email to view this breathtaking model.

Looking for more design inspiration? Discover Kendall’s take on eclectic contemporary design and learn how to give ordinary household items a refresh.

Images courtesy of: Burke Decor (Muestra Counter Stool); Hub Bell (Cayce Collection Three-Light Pendant); Paragon PG (Folk Florish S/4); Overstock (Prima Dining Table); Crate and Barrel (KST Sofa); Williams Sonoma (Majorca 4 Door Credenza); Wayfair (Arbor Cocktail Table, Dwyer Upholstered Headboard, Alden Round Wall Mirror, Hyacinth and Wood Handled Wicker Basket, Power Loomed Performance Rug, Becki Owens x Surya Calla Jute Area Rug, Teo Upholstered Swivel Club Chair); Build With Ferguson (Mariposa 6 Light Wide Chandelier); Chairish (Vintage Faux Bamboo White China Cabinet); West Elm (Luisa Carved Six-Drawer Dresser).

Known for its strong sense of community and small-town vibe, Richmond is an ideal place to raise a family. Nestled in the heart of Fort Bend County, the town is a pleasing mix of rich history, nature and awesome things to do. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or exploring local culture, here are the top five things to do in Richmond:

Fort Bend County’s past is showcased at The George Ranch Historical Park. The 22,000-acre living history site is a fascinating place for kids and grown-ups alike. Four distinct historic sites span over 100 years of Texas history, including a working cattle ranch, a Victorian mansion, meandering trail, and a frontier farm. The ranch hosts numerous events throughout the year, the most famous being the annual Texian Market Days, held in October. Visitors during this time can get a feel for what pioneer life was like as they enjoy hands-on activities, battle reenactments, live entertainment, and more.

Fort Bend County is full of natural beauty, but Brazos Bend State Park is a favorite by far. The expansive park offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife viewing, including chances to see alligators in their natural habitat. Thirty-seven miles of trails — some of which are wheelchair accessible — wind through the park past touchable bronzes of wildlife, hardwood forest, and lakes. A boardwalk and observation deck are available to wildlife watchers, photographers, and anyone who just wants to stop and enjoy the scenery.

When is a history lesson not a history lesson? When you can visit charming boutiques, scrumptious restaurants, and unique shops along the way. Historic Downtown Richmond is a charming place for a stroll, showcasing more than 200 years of Texas history. Buildings and landmarks — such as the Morton Cemetery and the historic courthouse square — all have a story to tell. Historic Morton Street plays host to numerous community events throughout the year, including the annual Miracle on Morton Street holiday celebration, Richmond Farmers Market, Art in the Bend Family Festival, and more.

Home to fascinating exhibits focused on Fort Bend County history, Fort Bend Museum is a fun place for families to explore. Exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region’s rich heritage — from its Native American roots to its role in Texas independence — are on permanent display. Pop-up exhibits rotate monthly. Guided tours of the 1855 Long-Smith Cottage and 1883 Moore Home are available with the purchase of general admission. During the holidays, you can take a candlelight tour of the Moore Home complete with wassail and cookies.

Richmond is home to many great restaurants but a fun and tasty place you won’t want to miss is the Messina Hof Harvest Green Winery & Kitchen. Located in Houston’s first farm-centric community, the restaurant is warm and welcoming with a scrumptious menu featuring produce grown on the Village Farm, as well as Messina Hof’s delicious line-up of premiere vintages. Once you’ve had lunch or dinner, be sure to stop by Harvest Green’s 12-acre Village Farm to pet the Nubian goats or watch the antics of the chickens.