Austin, July 24, 2025
News Summary
Pixiu Investments, Woodbine Development, and Hyatt Hotels are set to undertake a significant renovation of the historic Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas. The renovation is planned in two phases coinciding with the hotel’s 140th anniversary in December, aiming to modernize 175 guestrooms and introduce new culinary outlets including a cocktail bar. Phase One will begin in Fall 2025, while Phase Two will focus on the lobby and historical rooms, highlighting the preservation of the hotel’s storied legacy.
Austin, Texas – Pixiu Investments, Woodbine Development, and Hyatt Hotels Corporation have announced an extensive renovation plan for the historic Driskill Hotel, a landmark that has defined luxury accommodation in Texas since its opening in 1886. The renovation is set to coincide with the hotel’s 140th anniversary in December 2026 and will involve significant upgrades to various spaces within the iconic building.
The renovation will revamp 175 guestrooms, including the guestroom tower, along with the hotel lobby, common areas, and meeting spaces. Notably, the project will introduce new culinary outlets, such as a new ballroom and cocktail bar, designed to enhance the overall guest experience.
The renovation plan is segmented into two phases. Phase One, set to debut in Fall 2025, will introduce a reimagined Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill, alongside a new cocktail bar named The Victorian, managed by MML Hospitality, a prominent Austin-based company. This phase will also update 110 Tower Guestrooms built in 1929, refresh the fitness center, and create a new 2,800-square-foot ballroom on the Mezzanine Level.
Following that, Phase Two is scheduled for completion in Summer 2026 and will focus on renovating the hotel lobby, grand staircase, and 74 historic guestroom rooms. This phase will also include a curated retail space named Stark & Sisters. The integrated design aims to preserve the hotel’s historical significance while modernizing its amenities.
The strategic renovation reflects the commitment to honoring the hotel’s storied legacy and unique traditions, as emphasized by the management team looking to maintain the hotel’s character while enhancing its offerings. SWOON, the Studio, led by designers Samantha Sano and Joslyn Taylor, will spearhead the design and branding aspects of the renovation, focusing on historical representation throughout the hotel.
Additionally, a significant partnership is being established with MML Hospitality to manage all food and beverage operations at the hotel starting in August 2025. Chef April Bloomfield, a notable culinary figure from New York, will direct the new dining concepts at the Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill, marking her first foray into the Southern cuisine scene.
Throughout the renovation processes, the Driskill will remain operational and continue to be part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, ensuring that guests can still experience the historic grandeur of the hotel. The hotel has a rich history, having hosted numerous notable figures, including politicians and international dignitaries. Its legacy includes serving as a venue for significant events and celebrations, as well as tales of ghost stories that embellish its storied past involving cattle barons and Texas grandeur.
The decision to undertake this renovation follows a change of ownership in 2022, with Pixiu Investments and Woodbine Development acquiring the property while maintaining a long-term management partnership with Hyatt.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Renovation Phases | Two-phase renovation spanning from Fall 2025 to Summer 2026. |
| Guestrooms Updated | A total of 175 guest rooms, including updates to the historic guestroom tower. |
| New Culinary Outlets | Introduction of The Victorian cocktail bar and updates to Driskill Bar and Gril. |
| New Spaces | Creation of a 2,800-square-foot ballroom and retail space named Stark & Sisters. |
FAQs
What is the timeline for the Driskill Hotel renovation?
The renovation will take place in two phases: Phase One will debut in Fall 2025, with Phase Two scheduled for Summer 2026.
Will the Driskill Hotel remain open during renovations?
Yes, the Driskill Hotel will remain operational throughout the renovation process.
Who is managing the food and beverage operations?
MML Hospitality, an Austin-based company, will manage all food and beverage operations starting in August 2025.
What historical significance does the Driskill Hotel hold?
The Driskill Hotel is known for hosting numerous prominent figures and events and is famous for its ghost stories and rich history involving Texas cattle barons.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CultureMap Austin
- Wikipedia: The Driskill
- CBS Austin
- Google Search: The Driskill Hotel renovation
- Boutique Hotelier
- Google Scholar: The Driskill Hotel history
- ATX Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Driskill Hotel
- The Daily Texan
- Google News: Driskill Hotel renovation
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