A Proper Experience: Cocktails on Location at The Austin Proper Hotel

Design

June 1, 2023

Kacey Perez

Photography by The Ingalls, courtesy of The Austin Proper Hotel and Residences

Welcome to the epitome of modern elegance and refined luxury in the heart of Austin. Nestled amidst the vibrant cityscape, the Austin Proper Hotel stands tall as a beacon of sophistication and style. From its striking architecture to its impeccable design details, this unique collection of spaces offers an unparalleled experience for the luxury experience seeking traveler. Guests step into a world where contemporary artistry meets warm Texan hospitality, where every corner tells a story, and where indulgence and relaxation seamlessly intertwine. So grab a drink – we recommend the W. L. Brown Derby served by Goldie’s Bar inside the hotel (recipe below) – and discover the captivating allure of the Austin Proper hotel.

A Visit at the Austin Proper Hotel

Situated in Downtown’s 2nd Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences offers an artful immersion in lifestyle and well-being. With emphasis on collaboration, the passionate, compelling vision of designer Kelly Wearstler meets the culinary creativity of Austin tastemaker McGuire Moorman Hospitality. Essentials include 244 rooms and suites; 99 branded residences; four unique settings for dining and drink; a focus on wellness with a dedicated spa and fitness center; plus a variety of atmospheric spaces for events. And it wouldn’t be Proper without a 5th floor pool deck offering small-batch tequilas and Lady Bird Lake views. 

Joining the Downtown skyline in 2019: 32 stories merging a 244-room destination hotel with 99 exclusive residences. This sculptural new construction integrates the work of award winning Handel Architects and interior designer Kelly Wearstler in a progression of atmospheres including two pools, 14,500 square feet of event spaces, and multiple dining concepts by McGuire Moorman Hospitality. In step with Austin’s natural lifestyle, LEED® Gold certification minimizes footprint and maximizes sustainability. To promote wellness for those who stay and work with Proper, these rigorous environmental standards extend from water use (reclaimed irrigation systems, in-building chilled water loops, centralized boilers) to low-VOC paints, energy-efficient LED lights, and insulated dual-pane windows that save energy and block UV.

Wearstler’s creative direction for the design of Austin Proper has unfolded over three years. The layered, individualis tic look mines a tradition of artistry and craftsmanship distinct to Austin. The historical influence of Austin’s most stately homes inspires eye-catching details including a sculptural staircase  installation of patch-worked vintage rugs. Local artists and materials are featured prominently throughout, with every surface adding textural interest: pots, trays and cabinet inlay tiles by ceramicist Rick Van Dyke; photography by local Barry Stone; locally quarried travertine on the pool deck; custom  millwork cypress shou sugi ban paneling and antique mirror finishes.

With Austin as muse, each the of 244 rooms and suites have been thoughtfully designed by Wearstler for refined living and restful evenings. The design is deeply influenced by local craft and material, from raw travertine sourced at nearby quarries, to trays by Rick Van Dyke and original fiber artworks by Magda  Sayeg. Well-considered appointments include Aesop bath amenities, Kelly Wearstler x Parachute Home robes and signature Proper beds layering Simmons Providence Mattresses, Fili D’oro and Bellino Fine Linens.

Maintaining Proper health is key, no matter where your travel takes you. The Verbena Spa includes a soothing lounge, five dedicated treatment rooms, men’s and women’s locker rooms with steam showers, and wellness experts on call. Our spacious  2,000-square-foot fitness center features state-of-the-art strength training, weight and cardio equipment and exclusive access to outdoor classes, including yoga and boot camp.

The Proper Eats

Leading Austin Proper’s dining front is McGuire Moorman Hospitality, the award-winning team behind many of Austin’s best dining & entertainment spots. At the landmark eatery, The Peacock, guests can savor Mediterranean–inspired foods and flavors that are colorful, healthy and wholesome, paired with  house-made pita from the wood-burning oven. On the rooftop pool deck, the coastal Mexican restaurant, La Piscina, offers  wood-fired seafood, fajitas and a raw bar. Morning, noon or night, the ground floor Mediterranean coffee shop, The Mockingbird, serves savory items to-go and tempting treats like  soft-serve Greek frozen yogurt, while Goldie’s Sunken Bar is an elegant hideaway for hotel guests and residents. 

The Peacock at the Austin Proper Hotel.

Cocktail Recipe: The W. L. Brown Derby, by Goldie’s Bar

The W. L. Brown Derby

This cocktail is made with Weller Special Reserve combined with Texas grapefruit and a splash of extra citrus with a little bit of honey – served on a large cube to make a cocktail that’s refreshing but not too bright. This is the Goldie’s take on a classic that I think fits our refined style and still packs a punch.

A Note on Goldie’s Bar

Goldie’s is an intimate cocktail bar on the ground floor of the Austin Proper Hotel. Goldie’s serves as an elegant, vibrant setting for a posh celebration, or a romantic evening out — open to Proper’s hotel guests and residents only. Seasonal cocktails rotate based on ingredient availability, while a classic martini, Pink Lady Champs-Élysées, and other favorites are menu mainstays.


The Proper Amenities

An array of high-end amenities that aim to refresh. Whether borrowing a bicycle for a lakeside trail ride, taking a dip in the 5th floor heated swimming pool or finding your zen through our on-site wellness activations, Austin Proper has you covered. Enjoy the comforts of home with a full service business center, a cozy art filled lobby ideal for entertaining and laundry services including tailoring all in a pet-friendly  environment. The 24/7 concierge team is on-site and eager to make your stay unique and memorable.

Austin Proper offers more than 14,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed spaces for indoor and outdoor meetings, weddings, special events and private dining. Adding distinction to the creative design, the Proper team and McGuire Moorman Hospitality specially curate menus and styles of service to match  any occasion.

The 2nd Street District merges convenience and culture with creative offices, entertainment, shopping and waterfront wellness. Hit the trail around Lady Bird Lake, walk shady sidewalks to lunch, or check out a movie at the Violet Crown. You can also grab a last minute gift or something special for you at one of the many boutique shops, and of course catch a nighttime show…it’s all only steps away.