1 Hotels arrives in Austin, high above Lady Bird Lake

1 Hotels has opened its first hotel in Texas, and it's in a striking spot. 1 Hotel Austin occupies part of Waterline, a 74-storey tower designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox that is now the tallest in the state, at the edge of the Rainey Street District.

As you'd expect from the brand, nature leads. Local limestone, oak and wood salvaged from historic American buildings are used throughout, and more than 4,000 plants from over 30 species, plus a living wall, bring Central Texas indoors. The lobby feels like a living room, with high wooden ceilings and big windows. The 252 rooms, including 60 suites, use woven textiles, oat-coloured fabrics and stone bathrooms, with views over Lady Bird Lake, Waller Creek or downtown. Thoughtful touches include filtered water taps and glasses made from recycled wine bottles.

Food is local and low-waste. Alteño is a lively restaurant built around an open kitchen, while Neighbors Café and Wine Bar opens onto the street and moves from breakfast to cocktails to a vinyl soundtrack. Up on the 16th floor, watr, a rooftop bar first seen at 1 Hotel South Beach, looks out over the lake.

There's a whole wellness floor too, with a gym, yoga studio and Bamford spa inspired by Hill Country bathhouses.

Our summary of a story from Sleeper, published 28 September 2026. Read the original