Iconic Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas, to Undergo Full Renovation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation recently announced plans for the full renovation and restoration of Austin, Texas’, iconic Driskill Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. The renovation will include the 175 guestrooms, the lobby and common areas, meeting and social spaces, and culinary outposts, as well as the addition of a new ballroom, cocktail bar and retail space.

The first phase debuts this fall, including the reimagined Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill, and new bar, The Victorian. The 110 Tower Guestrooms, originally built in 1929, a refreshed fitness center and a new 2,800-square-foot ballroom on the Mezzanine Level will also be unveiled. The second phase, including the hotel lobby, grand staircase and original guestroom tower of 74 historic rooms, is slated for completion in summer 2026. A retail space named for the hotel’s prominent general manager and founding family children, Stark & Sisters will debut then, as well, before The Driskill celebrates its 140th anniversary in December 2026.

© The Driskill

This new era will be ushered in by Dallas-based SWOON, the Studio.

“The reimagining of The Driskill isn’t about a look or style, it’s about celebrating the history and embracing things that last,” said Joslyn Taylor, partner, SWOON, the Studio. “The Driskill will transcend fad, embracing thoughtful details, honest materials and clever comforts that feel all at once modern and timeless. Our goal with The Driskill is that it will be full of unique, immersive moments, considered programming, and environments imbued with a warm, elevated accessibility that underscores the hotel’s soulful vibe.”

The Driskill’s new design will take direction from its lore, with the first-floor lobby anchoring the property as a cultural hub. Off this space will sit a historic archive of The Driskill through the decades. The Mezzanine Level will house the hotel’s social spaces and pay homage to Lady Bird Johnson, with crown molding, vibrant greenery and natural light. In guestrooms, plans include a custom headboard, and soft hues of worn orange, patinaed blue and musky gray, as well as earthy and natural textures.

© The Driskill

The Driskill Bar and The Driskill Grill find new direction under New York culinary legend, Chef April Bloomfield. The Victorian will be unveiled this fall as a vibrant cocktail bar and lounge, and subtle enhancements to 1886 Café & Bakery are also planned.

Built in 1886 by Colonel Jesse Driskill, The Driskill is a landmark of Texas history and served as the first luxury hotel in the state.