AUSTIN
The Texan capital finds itself mid-transformation, as new openings nod to the city’s expressive, convivial spirit
A population boom can point to a travel hotspot in the making, and in-the-know natives have been heading to Austin in their thousands – it’s the fastest growing US city over the last eight years – lured by a compelling combination of buzzing nightlife and green space. Cowboy connotations are largely unfounded: the Texan capital is a pocket of progressive politics, with a renowned live music scene backed by over 250 venues (its most famous festival is March’s South by Southwest). Fresh businesses are following the crowds – alongside an influx of tech giants to its so-called Silicon Hills – and stylish new places to stay and eat are popping up all over town.
Perhaps the most high-profile newcomer is a fourth property from luxury boutique hotel chain Proper, which opened in December. It marks the first outpost outside California for the West Coast brand, which has once again enlisted US designer Kelly Wearstler for the hotel’s interior. Her eclectic, soulful aesthetic has transformed the common areas and 244 rooms – and all with a Texan twist.
Other characterful crash pads include The Carpenter Hotel, which offers retro-industrial swagger in a mid-century carpenters’ union by US firm Specht Architects, and expansive wellness estate Miraval Austin on the city’s green fringes. And up next is Hotel Magdalena, a new five-star option from local hotelier, Bunkhouse Group.
Local food culture is flourishing, too. Barbecue joints and food trucks are favourites, but they’re swiftly finding themselves jostling for space with destination dining spots and a flourishing vegan scene. Proximity to the border means Mexican fare is in plentiful supply, and recent openings, such as Comedor – an architectural doubleheight dining room by Seattle practice Olson Kundig – are approaching the country’s cuisine with a sophistication as yet unmatched. Austin is a city in flux, but one whose old and new hangouts are equally persuasive.
THE CAPITAL IS A POCKET OF PROGRESSIVE POLITICS, WITH A RENOWNED LIVE MUSIC SCENE