Photo Credit: Howard HughesBusiness
Jim Carman honored with Landmark Awards for Commercial Real Estate Leadership
The Houston Business Journal (HBJ) has recognized Jim Carman, President, Houston Region for Howard Hughes, as a recipient of its inaugural Landmark Award for Leaders in Commercial Real Estate. Honored at the annual Landmark Awards gala on April 24 at the Hilton Americas in Houston, Carman was acknowledged for his contributions to shaping the region through impactful real estate development.
This newly introduced category highlights commercial real estate leaders whose work has significantly influenced the Houston region—enhancing development, design, and long-term value for businesses, residents, and the community. The Landmark Awards celebrate individuals and projects that exemplify thoughtful planning and execution, driving growth across the area.
Winning this inaugural award highlights Carman’s commitment to creating exceptional places that enhance the daily lives of those who live, work, and visit The Woodlands, Bridgeland, and The Woodlands Hills. His leadership ensures these master planned communities continue to evolve as vibrant destinations, offering thoughtfully designed spaces that foster connection, convenience, and a strong sense of place.
“The selection of Jim Carman for one of the Houston Business Journal’s first individual awards in its annual Landmark Awards program was an easy decision. He has been at the forefront of several of Greater Houston’s biggest commercial real estate projects — through his oversight at both The Woodlands and Bridgeland,” said Sean McCrory, Editor-in-Chief for the Houston Business Journal. “As well, he has walked the stage numerous times to accept Landmark Awards for many of those projects, including last year’s Land Deal winner for Chevron’s land acquisition at Bridgeland and the Multifamily winner, Wingspan at Bridgeland.”
Carman brings over two decades of experience in construction and development, backed by civil engineering degrees from Texas A&M University. During his time at Howard Hughes, he has overseen more than $2 billion in development projects, shaping the commercial and residential landscape within some of Houston’s most iconic master-planned communities.
In The Woodlands, current projects include Texas’ first stand-alone Ritz-Carlton Residences, the revitalization of Grogan’s Mill Village Center—featuring a state-of-the-art library and community center recently renamed in honor of Congressman Kevin Brady, along with 32,000 square feet of retail space—and the recent topping out of 1 Riva Row, a 13-story luxury multifamily residence along The Woodlands Waterway.
Carman’s leadership extends to Bridgeland Central, a 925-acre emerging urban district in Northwest Houston, designed to blend innovation and community impact. One Bridgeland Green, Houston’s first mass timber office building, is currently under construction, setting a new standard for sustainable design. The development of The Village Green at Bridgeland Central—anchored by a 128,000-square-foot H-E-B—continues to attract top-tier retail and dining partners. These milestones showcase Carman’s ability to create dynamic, mixed-use destinations that enhance the way people live, work, and connect.
Under Carman’s leadership, Bridgeland has become a nationally recognized leader among master-planned communities. Since 2020, it has consistently ranked in the top 20 best-selling master-planned communities in the U.S. by RCLCO, most recently securing the #7 spot nationwide and #2 in Texas. Additionally, Bridgeland was named the 2024 Master Planned Community of the Year by the National Association of Home Builders, highlighting its commitment to exceptional design, world-class amenities, and innovative planning that attract homebuyers seeking an elevated lifestyle.
Carman’s commitment to civic leadership is evident through his support of various community nonprofits. His roles as Vice Chairman of the Montgomery County Food Bank Board, Chairman of the Board for Stewart Title of Montgomery County, and Board Member of the Interfaith of The Woodlands demonstrate his deep-rooted dedication to the community. Additionally, his previous positions as Chairman of the Board for The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of the Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership, and Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society further underscore his commitment to impactful causes.
“I am honored to be recognized as a leader in commercial real estate and to be among the inaugural recipients of this esteemed award. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the exceptional professionals at Howard Hughes whose hard work and commitment drive our success, as well as to our partners and customers for their ongoing support and inspiration. This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication that defines our work,” said Carman.
Source: Howard Hughes
