Pixiu Investments, Woodbine Development, and Hyatt Hotels have announced an ambitious renovation of Austin’s historic Driskill Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. The transformation of Texas’ first luxury hotel, originally built in 1886, will see a full restoration of 175 guestrooms, public spaces, and culinary venues, along with the addition of a new ballroom, cocktail bar, and curated retail shop.
Slated for a phased rollout, the first stage launches in Fall 2025 with a redesigned Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill, a new bar concept called The Victorian, and renovated 1929-era guestrooms. A refreshed fitness center and a new 2,800-square-foot mezzanine ballroom round out the initial updates. The second phase, expected in Summer 2026, will restore the original 74-room guest tower, hotel lobby, and grand staircase, culminating in a reimagined retail space, Stark & Sisters, named after the hotel’s early stewards.
The project is led by Dallas-based design firm SWOON, the Studio, known for their work on heritage hotels like The Adolphus in Dallas and The Vanderbilt in Newport. Founders Samantha Sano and Joslyn Taylor aim to blend The Driskill’s rich past with modern sophistication, emphasizing timeless materials and immersive storytelling.
Local powerhouse MML Hospitality will take over all food and beverage operations starting August 2025. Chef April Bloomfield will helm the reimagined Driskill Bar and Grill—her first Southern venture—while The Victorian, a new cocktail lounge, will debut on the corner of 6th and Brazos. The hotel’s beloved 1886 Café & Bakery will also see subtle enhancements.
“The Driskill has always been an iconic part of Austin,” said MML co-founder Larry McGuire. “We’re honored to contribute to its next chapter while honoring its rich legacy.”
Founded by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the hotel has long been a stage for Texas history—hosting politicians, celebrities, and society events. As the hotel approaches its 140th anniversary in December 2026, the renovation aims to secure its place as one of the South’s grandest hospitality landmarks for generations to come.
Hotel website
The Driskill – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
604 Brazos St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
+1 512-439-1234