Modern Makeover

Houston's historic family-owned hotel moves into the 21st century with $10 million revamp

The Lancaster Hotel, a historic 93-room boutique hotel in downtown Houston's Theater District, is set to undergo a $10 million renovation. It is slated to begin this month and be completed by mid-summer of this year.

Reviewers in recent years have called the hotel "quaint," referring to worn furnishings and fixtures, so it's clear that the facelift comes at a good time. A statement released on Wednesday details that the renovation will include "the hotel's lobby and meeting spaces, all guest rooms and suites, and will incorporate significant technology and core mechanical upgrades."

Future guests should expect a natural light-filled lobby that opens to the downtown streetscape and flows into the reception area, the meeting spaces and The Bistro, The Lancaster's on-site restaurant, plus redesigned interiors that "will echo classic American styling with a bow to the hotel's Theater District location," incorporating men's suiting fabrics and top-of-the-line plumbing fixtures from WaterWorks.

The renovation will include "the hotel's lobby and meeting spaces, all guest rooms and suites, and will incorporate significant technology and core mechanical upgrades."

Other new features will include new Wi-Fi technology, smart TVs and projectors in the meeting rooms, 42-inch flat screens in guest rooms and VingCarg room locks, which uses intuitive key card technology.

"This hotel has been in our family for 87 years and is the only historic hotel in Houston owned and operated by descendants of the original developer," said Charles M. Lusk III, president of The Lancaster Houston, whose great-grandfather, Michele DeGeorge, first built The Auditorium Hotel in 1926. The property reopened in 1986 as The Lancaster.

Gensler will lead as the project's architect, and Charlene Lusk Dwyer of Dwyer Interiors will consult on the project. Renovation work will take place one wing at a time, so the hotel will remain open for guests throughout the process.

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spacious memorial mansion

Striking French-inspired Houston estate hits market for $12.5 million

TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million

A magnificent estate awaits in one of Houston’s most desirable neighborhoods. 412 Timberwilde Lane is a stunning brick and limestone home, inspired by French country manor houses. It’s on the market for $12.5 million and represented by Jay Monroe and Stephen Warrell ofMartha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

Nestled on nearly 2.5 acres of meticulously manicured grounds in exclusive Hunters Creek Village, this home blends old world elegance with modern amenities, including 24/7 private security. The grand foyer’s soaring ceiling sets the tone upon entry, announcing that 412 Timberwilde Lane is something special.

Consider the formal library, with its rich, paneled walls and cross-beam ceiling, and the spacious dining room with its cozy fireplace. The living room offers breathtaking views of the rear gardens, pool, cabana, and tennis courts. Just off the kitchen, a light-filled breakfast room is a perfect place for morning coffee and admiring the grounds.

The primary suite is the embodiment of luxury, with dual bathrooms and ample closet space, ensuring comfort and convenience. This private oasis is a place to unwind and relax.

The home’s second floor offers a floor plan that can be tailored to suit any lifestyle. The bedrooms are generously sized with large closets and private baths. A playroom with a built-in playhouse castle makes for a perfect spot for kids’ imaginations to run wild. Other rooms could be utilized for a second home office, exercise room, yoga retreat, crafting space, or whatever else a family might need.

The third floor offers a game room featuring a wet bar, billiards area, and a big-screen TV, making it the ultimate place to relax and have fun with family and friends. The outdoor areas include an in-ground pool and summer kitchen, perfect places.

This one-of-a-kind estate offers an array of amenities for living and entertaining. Its location is both convenient to the city and a restful retreat.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby’s International Realty

412 Timberwilde Lane sits on more than two acres in Hunters Creek Village and is on the market for $12.5 million.

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