Merriman Anderson Architects Reimagines a Hospitality Classic

Merriman Anderson Architects recently announced the completion of its four-phase renovation of The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton located 30 miles north of downtown Houston in Montgomery County. This property represents the first Hilton Curio Resort in Texas, and the $21-million re-imagination of the popular resort includes public areas—registration, lobby lounge and bar, restaurant and market, pre-function area—as well as 402 total guest rooms and suites.

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In 2021, MAA was hired to conceptualize a turnkey renovation of the hotel’s major areas, bringing the architectural design and interiors up to modern standards and imbuing the spaces with a refreshed new style and palette. MAA’s team determined their primary design driver was the surrounding forested environment—flora, fauna, water, air, and light. Their inspiration was the peace, joy and rejuvenation that occurs when guests immerse themselves into the vast property. By incorporating materials, textures and colors that appear throughout the woodland, the design team was able to create a natural transition from the outdoors into the interiors of the resort.

Guided by Natural Surroundings

The Spruce Lobby was given a soft mid-century modern vibe with large undivided glass windows, brick and stone architectural elements, earthy colors and textures. The guest room and suites renovation incorporated a new nature-infused color palette for bedding drapery and carpet, and the addition of wood and stone accents to the furnishings. MAA completely redesigned and upgraded the bathrooms with new showers, tubs, flooring, countertops, mirrors and lighting. The Grand Foyer pre-function within the event and conference wing was given a fresh contemporary infusion with seating vignettes, carpet, lighting and artwork.

Three new food and beverage outlet options were added within the scope of the renovation project. Harrison’s overlooks the lake and features a wraparound patio. The two-story space offers multiple dining configurations including a private dining room. The ambience is sophisticated but comfortable and utilizes the same earthy nature palette: wood beams and stone architectural details, linear banquettes, leather and floral upholstery. Spruce Market is a new casual all-day café dining option with a retail component for snacks, sundries and beverages to go. The new Lobby Bar offers drinks and small bites serving many different Texas wines, beers, spirits and a unique cocktail menu.

MAA also curated an exemplary new art program for the hotel which showcases a variety of talented Texas artists in a mix of genres and techniques.

“The Woodlands Resort is a beloved destination for families visiting the Houston area and locals looking for a staycation. As the first Curio by Hilton resort in Texas, we knew our direction was to reimagine and freshen the property in every aspect,” said Jennifer Picquet-Reyes, principal and director of Hospitality, Historic/Adaptive Reuse at MAA. “The natural beauty of that heavily wooded area was our guiding star to imbue the interiors with the same rich blend of textures, colors and elements.”