A DECADE ago the concept of living in downtown Houston was exactly that to many observers, a concept, rather than a viable option.

Fast forward to 2010. Developers have spent more than $4 billion in the last decade to transform downtown into a vital city center, bringing a vast spectrum of assets and amenities to downtown and more and more people are choosing to live in downtown Houston or in the immediate downtown area.

The types of residents attracted to downtown living are young urban professionals working downtown, empty nesters, reverse commuters and, yes, even small families. A variety of living options are also available from penthouse apartments to cool and funky lofts-- and at all price points.