Issue link: https://nest.uberflip.com/i/699429
Proud residents of Garden Oaks / Oak Forest (commonly known as GOOF located just north of 610) justifiably stake their claim as "honorary Inner-Loopers". This trendy patchwork of neighborhoods has been and continues to be on the rise with those hip and in the know. Established in 1937 by Edward L. Crain, Garden Oaks is located on a tract of land just north of the Houston Heights. Comprised of 5 sections, Garden Oaks offers a unique blend of mid-century homes—mostly pier and beam cottages. All five sections have seen an abundance of renovations and newly constructed homes. Garden Oaks is the wealthier and more redeveloped area of the two: beginning in the 1990s, a new generation of families discovered its rambling ranch houses and two- story, plantation-style mini-mansions sitting on large lots amid mature oak, pecan, and magnolia trees. But Oak Forest next door is no slouch. This popular community is the third largest group of subdivisions in Harris County and is still growing. This area is a ranch-house paradise, originally developed for returning World War II vets and is often compared to Bellaire or West University. Oak Forest is attracting many creative types moving from the Heights and Montrose area after starting families. The highly-regarded Oak Forest Elementary School with Vanguard Magnet Program is also a draw. Since 2000, both neighborhoods have attracted lots of creative types, many either priced or sized out of the Heights or Montrose after starting families.