Johnson Development Unveils Plans for Ricestead in Grange

Johnson Development has unveiled plans for an amenity complex in Grange that stretches the boundaries of a traditional center, combining pools, sport courts, expansive open space and retail into a central gathering hub for the Katy community. 

A large village green will be a central focus of the 20-acre Ricestead, designed for outdoor concerts, farmers markets, seasonal celebrations and more. Adjacent to the communal lawn will be the Harvest Hall clubhouse, offering a fitness center and a community room as well as co-working space, a conference room and offices for homeowners association and lifestyle staff. It will anchor a resort-style pool and separate lap pool. Nearby will be a playground as well as an open-air pickleball pavilion with six courts.

The portion of Ricestead along Franz Road, a major corridor for Grange, will be a curated mix of retail reflecting the spirit of the community. 

“Ricestead will be far more than an amenity center,” said Jacob W. Rice, Vice President and General Manager of Grange. “Our vision is for it to become the heart of the community — a modern-day town square where neighbors will naturally come together. Whether it’s having a coffee shop, a mom-and-pop store or other unique retail, we see Ricestead as a place where businesses and residents become true partners. Our goal is simple: for Grange to be more than a community. We want it to feel like home — a hometown people are proud to belong to.” 

Lakes and waterways feature prominently near the Ricestead master plan, with trails and bridges weaving around and over the water. Pedestrian mews corridors are designed to frame views and foster movement throughout the complex and into residential areas surrounding Ricestead.

Architectural design will reflect the region’s deep agrarian roots, with natural textures, weathered facades, exposed wooden beams, metal accents, shaded porches and more.

Rice expects to break ground on Ricestead during the second quarter of 2026. The complex is expected to open in 2027.

Home sales in the 1,130-acre Grange began last fall, with the first residents moving in this summer. Builders Chesmar Homes, David Weekley Homes, Drees Custom Homes, Highland Homes, Newmark Homes, Perry Homes and Westin Homes offer homes priced from low $400,000s.

Expected to open later this year in Grange is Henley Park, a 1-acre green with three play spaces for children ages 2 to 12, a pavilion, open lawn and trails. Also planned for the community are onsite schools, with Katy Independent School District purchasing land late last year for an elementary school and junior high school. The district has not announced timing for when school construction might start.

Grange is located at Morton Road and FM 2855 in Katy. Upon completion, it will have approximately 2,400 homes.