What $6 Million Buys

Galleria Hotel renovates to stand out: Snakeskin walls and concierge"personalities" are here

On Dec. 17, 2012, Destination Hotels & Resorts started the Hotel Derek makeover,which includes significant aesthetic changes to guest room, lobby and meetingspace interiors.
Hotel Derek/Facebook
Two floors of guest rooms have already been renovated, and the grand ballroom.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Derek
While official plans have yet to be announced, “exciting things” will be takingplace in the restaurant and bar space, which currently houses Valentino and VinBar, the latter shown here.
Gensler
The hotel is working with Dallas-based interior design firm Flick-Mars toimplement an updated look that highlights vibrant colors and new textures.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Derek

Hotel Derek, the Galleria-are luxury boutique hotel originally opened in 2001, is undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation and management overhaul.

Destination Hotels & Resorts, the fifth largest hospitality management company in the United States, purchased the property last summer. On Dec. 17, the company started the Hotel Derek makeover, which includes significant aesthetic changes to guest room, lobby and meeting space interiors, and it's in full swing now.

“It’s the only independent, boutique property in an area surrounded by chains, and we want to elevate the hotel from where it currently stands in the market.”

“We’re onboard with a fresh perspective and assessing the potential the hotel has given its location and the type of business we have coming into the Galleria — both corporate and leisure,” Stephanie Summerall, director of sales & marketing, told CultureMap in a phone interview. “We’re utilizing that to move the hotel in a different direction.”

The hotel is working with Dallas-based interior design firm Flick-Mars to implement an updated look that highlights vibrant colors and new textures, such as snakeskin-clad bathroom walls.

“We’re taking the design elements up a few notches, further distinguishing Hotel Derek from other hotels in the Galleria area,” Summerall said. “It’s the only independent, boutique property in an area surrounded by chains, and we want to elevate the hotel from where it currently stands in the market.”

In addition to interior upgrades, Destination recently implemented new service standards at Hotel Derek. A combined concierge and brand ambassador position — “Sir or Lady Derek” — has been created to further enhance the overall guest experience.

According to Summerall, Sir or Lady Derek will provide guests with customized entertainment recommendations and act as the face of the hotel. “You’re going to have a personality there creating this vibe from the moment you arrive, who will have a specialized insight on all things Houston,” she said.

“We plan to continually invest in the property, introducing things that are very edgy and aren’t being done anywhere else in town.”

Destination Hotels & Resorts is spending approximately $6 million on design enhancements, which will be completed in March. Several floors of guest rooms have already been renovated.

While official plans have yet to be announced, Summerall said that “exciting things” would be taking place in the restaurant and bar space, which currently houses Valentino and Vin Bar.

“We plan to continually invest in the property, introducing things that are very edgy and aren’t being done anywhere else in town,” she said. “We want Hotel Derek to be the destination for people traveling in Houston, as well as Houstonians.”

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spacious sandalwood retreat

England-inspired lakeside Houston mansion hits market for $7.75 million

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

On the shores of Sandalwood’s largest lake is a stunning wooded estate. 50 Patti Lynn Lane, tucked between Briar Forest Drive and Memorial Drive, offers luxury living in tranquil seclusion. It’s on the market for $7.75 million and listed by Inga Laughlin Smith with Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty.

A rare find, this 9,000-square-foot home offers five bedrooms, five full and four partial bathrooms, exquisite details, and striking craftsmanship. Designed by Rice Residential Design, with interiors by Scene One Interiors and built by Corbel Custom Homes, this home is a remarkable example of how modern living blends with the natural setting.

Echoing an English manor, this home unfolds in its wooded surroundings. Come through the French chateau front doors into a sweeping grand foyer with hardwood floors and a wrought-iron staircase. A study features custom millwork, soaring views, and a club-like feel. The bar’s detailing lends an air of sophistication to this easy gathering space. The climate-controlled wine room has storage for 1,500 bottles. A lovely grand gallery links the wine room and dining room.

The kitchen is at the crossroads of the home, anchored by an oversized island, perfect for casual conversation and quick meals. Professional-grade appliances make it a home cook’s dream, while custom cabinetry and elegant architectural details demonstrate its blend of form and function.

On the main level is the primary suite, with a spa bathroom and a dressing room that mirrors a luxury boutique. Upstairs, a secondary suite has a window seat, custom built-ins, and an en-suite bath. Additional bedrooms are spacious retreats, and the game room has plenty of space to relax and enjoy treetop views. Currently, a secondary bedroom serves as an in-home fitness studio.

The resort-style grounds feature an infinity pool and spa. The back patio has a stone fireplace, outdoor kitchen, dining area, and lounging spot, making it a retreat all of its own. Steps lead down to gorgeously manicured grounds with mature trees and meandering paths to the lake.

This home should prove irresistible to a wealthy family seeking an exceptional blend of modern living with the feel of a private oasis.

Photo by Aria Media for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

This secluded, wooded estate is for sale for $7.75 million.

home-for-sale