The Fairmont Austin, a new 37-story luxury hotel, is set to open in summer 2017.

Once representing an important common ground between east Austin and downtown, Palm Park will be restored as a leafy, shady respite at the water’s edge, a gathering place that serves the hotel, Convention Centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.

“We are excited to welcome Fairmont Austin to the Waller Creek district,” said Peter Mullan, Waller Creek Conservancy chief executive.

“This beautiful hotel, connected to nature and the creek at Palm Park, is transforming the district into a vibrant, urban environment.”
Fairmont Austin’s proximity to both Palm Park and Waller Creek inspired Warren Sheets, of San Francisco-based interior design firm Warren Sheets Design, to create an organic continuity from the hotel’s environment to the spaces within, realising the ‘hotel on a park’ concept in a multitude of spectacular and unexpected ways.

“On a broader scope, I was looking at how important outdoor life is to Austinites and to the state itself,” said Sheets.

“Because the hotel is on a park, I brought The Park into the hotel. All the interior elements down to the smallest details weave a cohesive narrative that honours this beautiful city and will serve to welcome guests with trademark hospitality.”

Upon entering, guests are greeted by two 24 feet high by 26 feet wide towering Heritage Oak trees which flank the reception desk; while The Park
Lounge features a geometric, life-size topiary garden with majestically imposing tree, and moving lights aimed at the ceiling. Indigenous greenery and cultural references also appear throughout the hotel’s interior.

The Red River Canopy Walk, a 33-foot-tall elevated connection from Fairmont Austin to the Austin Convention Centre, will allow the public and guests to view Waller Creek and Palm Park from a unique aerial perspective.

The pedestrian bridge will include a stairway and ramp leading to Palm Park and three miles of new hike and bike trails.

The elegant, open-air design of the Canopy Walk will reinforce Waller Creek’s mission of renewing urban parks to create authentic and uplifting experiences that reflect Austin’s dynamic spirit.

“Fairmont Austin is devoted to honouring public treasures like Palm Park and Waller Creek, while contributing in meaningful ways to the city’s future,” said Michael McMahon, director of sales and marketing for Fairmont Austin.

“The revival of Palm Park, the transformation of neighbouring Red River and Rainey Street Districts, coupled with the hotel’s distinct interior and exterior design will be nothing short of spectacular.”