Austin’s remarkable Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection’s first urban resort, is the focus of our latest TOPHOTELDESIGN exclusive.

The recently completed conversion of a former country home in Texas’ state capital showcases the work of a stellar design team.

Transforming a celebrated heritage building

Last summer, Auberge Resorts Collection announced the completion of its first urban resort, Commodore Perry Estate. This development saw the conversion of a storied architectural landmark, which lies within ten acres of the Hyde Park neighbourhood in Austin. A historic former residence-turned-social hub, the scheme was transformed by local developer Clark Lyda in collaboration with The Marchbanks Company.

The HB (Hal) Thompson-designed property was built in 1928 at the height of the Jazz Age as a private residence, taking inspiration from the owner’s European travels. Now the original estate’s Italianate mansion, carriage house and formal gardens have been given a new lease of life as a hotel and private club through a partnership between Ken Fulk, Moule & Polyzoides, Clayton Korte and Ten Eyck Landscape Architects.

Among the highlights of the property are a 50 ft oval swimming pool, an organic kitchen garden, Lutie’s Garden Restaurant and 15,000 sq ft of event space – including a repurposed chapel dating back to 1948.

Design that reflects the estate’s past

The stunning centrepiece of the project is the 10,800 sq ft Italian Renaissance Revival mansion, which now contains elegant suites paying homage to the property’s former inhabitants, while the entry hall leads to several intimate gathering spaces including a craft cocktail bar, dining room, breakfast nook and library, along with a range of indoor and outdoor lounge options.

This mansion is joined by a new three-storey inn featuring 42 rooms and seven terrace suites in a courtyard-style structure that’s shaded by palm trees. Some of the rooms have their very own Juliette balconies, and suites are furnished with a sophisticated mix of mid-century Italian and 1920s Spanish items.

Each space across the estate is distinguished by the inclusion of bespoke details and antique furnishings that reflect the property’s many layers of history. Guests can expect to see a palette of muted pinks, apricots, curries and celadons in timeless patterns and rich fabrics, which complement the eclectic furnishings and handpainted murals of artist Deborah Phillips.

For more info about this scheme, and to view an extensive gallery of hi-res images, check out the Commodore Perry Estate, Austin page on the TOPHOTELDESIGN website.

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