Houston’s Grand Downtown Hotel Pretties Up for Super Bowl

As any grande dame a few decades long in the tooth would agree, a little touch-up is a good thing. Thus, the 34-year-old Four Seasons Hotel, downtown’s luxury purveyor of overnight pampering, is undergoing a multi-million dollar facelift that is scheduled for completion just in time for the coterie of celebrities that will be checking in for Super Bowl week.

The renovation of the entrance and entire first floor is sure to have arrivals applauding the contemporary vibe and the open plan that marries top shelf service with modern elegance. Who better to create that fresh, youthful appearance than New York boutique design firm Meyer Davis, noted for its transformation of hot properties including Auberge Beach Residences in Ft. Lauderdale, the Meridian in New Orleans and W Chicago Lakeshore.

Key to the Four Seasons lobby renovation is the centerpiece three-story staircase, leading to the ballrooms and Quattro restaurant, that will open to a massive skylight that infuses the ground floor with warm natural lighting. Likewise, the open plan design promises an inviting atmosphere. As general manager Tom Segesta likes to say, “If Buffalo Bayou Park is the city’s playground, then the ‘new’ Four Seasons is poised to become the city’s living room.”

While it has already been announced that celebrity chef Richard Sandoval is making his Texas debut with Bayou & Bottle, the lobby restaurant and bar, more details about the space are emerging. In addition to a 27-foot bar, estimated to be the longest bar in Texas by Four Seasons, the eatery will feature double fireplaces and a spacious outdoor patio. Just this week, the hotel announced the addition of a Topgolf “suite” within the Bayou & Bottle domain. The Topgolf Swing Suite will feature two golf simulators and access to food and drink service from the restaurant.

The multi-phase renovation began with reimagining of the spa (sleek and Zen) and the fitness center, which boasts workout equipment typically used only by professional athletes. The renovations are expected to be completed in late January.