An iconic Texas landmark and Hyatt Unbound Collection Hotel, The Driskill moves into the future.
A new 2,800-square-foot ballroom to be unveiled this fall is among the head-to-toe historic renovation of the iconic Driskill Hotel in The Austin, Texas. Originally built by cattle baron Colonel Jesse Driskill in 1886, with an additional guestroom tower built in 1929, the hotel is a landmark of Texas history and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1969. It has hosted many gala events over the decades—for politicians, cattle barons, oil tycoons and international dignitaries—and is well-equipped for today’s luxury meetings and incentives. The hotel remains part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, a collection of architectural icons that celebrate history, artistry and ingenuity.
Along with the new ballroom, the first phase of the renovation debuing in Fall 2025 will include the reimagined Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill, the newly designed Victorian bar, the 110 Tower guest rooms originally built in 1929 and a refreshed fitness center. The second phase, due to be completed in summer 2026, will include the hotel lobby, grand staircase, original guestroom tower of 74 historic rooms and the debut of a curated retail space. The Driskill’s transformation will celebrated at its 140th anniversary in December 2026.
Owners Pixiu Investments and Woodbine Development are committed to maintaining the Driskill’s storied legacy, said T. Dupree Scovell, managing partner at Woodbine. When attendees come for a meeting or event, he said, “this transformation is going to elevate the experience they have with us, as well as the caliber of the memories they take away. We couldn’t be more excited about that.”
Throughout the hotel spaces, the new design by luxury hotel designers SWOON The Studio will celebrate its illustrious history. The mezzanine level, housing the new ballroom and other meeting spaces, will pay homage to Lady Bird Johnson. Design details will echo the gathering areas of old with crown molding, vibrant greenery and natural light. “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 of 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.”
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