Thompson Houston is set to open its doors in December 2023, bringing contemporary luxury to a gleaming new tower located beside Buffalo Bayou Park, a 160-acre waterside green space just west of the city’s downtown.

Designed by architects HOK, the futuristic newbuild features a sleek glass and steel facade with curved lines, while interiors by Houston-based Abel Design Group bring together warm earthy tones, organic materials, brass fixtures and hardwood floors paying homage to the park nearby.

The property will comprise 172 guestrooms, including 34 suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, all of which boast bespoke furnishings and spacious en-suite bathrooms with marble vanities and custom wall treatments and tiling. Capturing the essence of Houston meanwhile, a Mid-Century Modern lobby in the sky has been designed to evoke the spirit of a Texas oil baron’s home.

Thompson Houston will also feature one of the city’s largest pool decks, the focal point of a one-acre outdoor rooftop. Elegant features will include a custom-tiled infinity pool bordered by cabanas offering views of downtown. The rooftop is also home to restaurant and lounge Sol 7, while 2,500ft2 of green space will provide a backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and events.

With an entire floor dedicated to wellness, the full-service spa will feature six treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon, indoor and outdoor sanctuary for relaxation and spa treatments on par with those of a destination spa resort. Additional wellness amenities will include a sauna, and hotel guests will also receive access to the EOS fitness centre, just steps from the hotel.

On the menu meanwhile are two distinct culinary concepts, including a supper-club-style restaurant pairing an elevated dining experience with some of the city’s top entertainment, as well as a traditional French brassier serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Additionally, the property will debut a cafe in partnership with local brand Maven Coffee Company, offering specialty coffees, pastries and coffee-based cocktails. Maven was founded by Astros player Lance McCullers Jr with local young entrepreneurs, Juan Carlos Martinez de Aldecoa and Blake Fertitta.

Meanwhile, adjacent to the hotel and offering an anticipated extended culinary offering for guests, Noble33 hospitality group will open Toca Madera and Meduza Mediterrania, providing a modern Mexican steakhouse and inventive eastern Mediterranean dining experience in Thompson Houston’s backyard, both of which are set to launch this winter.

Rounding out Thompson Houston’s offering is more than 17,000ft2 of flexible indoor and outdoor event space accommodating up to 800 people, from intimate executive boardrooms to an 8,000ft2 ballroom adorned with eclectic mesh chandeliers, brass accents and a private terrace. Customisable breakout rooms and pre-function space feature floor-to-ceiling windows, with many rooms offering private entrances for groups as well as wraparound terraces with views of the city.

“After years in the making, we’re thrilled to open Thompson Houston this December,” says Ted Knighton, Managing Director of Thompson Houston. “A sought-after destination for guests and locals alike, Thompson Houston will provide an unparalleled luxury escape for business meetings, weddings, galas, wellness experiences, and distinctive dining, in the heart of Houston.”