Austin Proper Hotel & Residences by Kelly Wearstler

The sculptural construction that is the Austin Proper Hotel & Residences encompasses 32 stories merging a 244-room destination hotel with 99 exclusive residences. Set in the cultural crossroads of Austin’s Downtown Second Street District, the project is the result of a visionary collaboration between designer Kelly Wearstler, Handel Architects, and McGuire Moorman Hospitality.

The lakeside building is set amongst Austin’s creative hub, with Wearstler’s creative direction considering site-specific influences from traditions of artistry and craftsmanship unique to the Texan capital. The layered, individualistic interior takes cues from Austin’s most stately homes. Eye-catching details include a sculptural staircase installation of 60 patch-worked vintage rugs and a monolithic timber and ceramic grandfather clock in the lobby.

Surfaces add textural interest, with local artists and materials featuring prominently throughout. Such elements include pots, trays and cabinet inlay tiles by ceramicist Rick Van Dyke; locally quarried travertine on the pool deck; Delta wood panelling; native elmwood; and antique mirror finishes.

Each of the 244 rooms and suites counts Austin as a muse and are heavily influenced by local craft, from raw travertine sourced from nearby quarries, to original fibre artworks by Magda Sayeg and trays by Rick Van Dyke. Branded touches include Kelly Wearstler x Parachute Home robes and signature Proper beds layering Simmons Providence Mattresses, Fili D’oro and Bellino Fine Linens.

Guests are encouraged to linger, with amenities including a 5th-floor pool, garden overlooking Shoal Creek, and bicycles available for lakeside trail rides. Expansive meeting and event spaces include a ballroom with 7m tall floor-to-ceiling windows. Multiple dining options include a Mediterranean landmark eatery, rooftop Mexican restaurant, coffee shop and sunken bar hideaway. Aligned with the Proper chain’s commitment to wellness, the Austin outpost has a gym spanning 185sqm and spa clinic.