Heywood Hotel, Austin
More photosTucked away in the vibrant East Austin neighborhood, the Heywood Hotel is an award-winning, seven-room boutique gem that perfectly captures the “Keep Austin Weird” spirit. Rather than a stark, traditional hotel, it functions much like an achingly cool local home.
The building itself has a great history, starting its life as a modest 1925 Craftsman bungalow. In 2011, owner Kathy Setzer and local architecture firm KRDB completed a three-year “labor of love” renovation, expanding the property while intentionally preserving its humble residential exterior to match the neighborhood’s character.
Inside, the spaces are a masterclass in regional craftsmanship. Kasey McCarty designed the warm interiors, filling them with mid-century modern touches and original longleaf pine floors. In a remarkably unique twist, the owner’s husband hand-built the gorgeous Scandinavian-inspired walnut beds found in the guest rooms.
The hotel strictly embraces an ultra-local ethos. The walls feature art by Austin creators, the mini-bars are famously stocked with affordable neighborhood treats, and the all-female staff provides specialized local guides. It is an approach so successful that this hidden independent spot has earned a coveted Michelin Key.
Expert reviews
“Heywood Hotel, a restored bungalow in the heart of East Austin, is an understated antidote to the area’s corporate short-term rentals. It has an affable front-desk staff and seven guest rooms, some with balconies and skylights.”
“The Heywood Hotel is Austin’s hippest boutique hotel. Set in a burgeoning section of East Austin, it offers one of my favorite stays. This modern but warm hotel, completed in 2011, started off as a 1920s bungalow. After being gutted and expanded, the hotel is an entirely new space, with just seven sparse and spacious rooms.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Austin.
“The first boutique hotel in East Austin, the Heywood is a seven-room gem that puts equal emphasis on design and comfort. The contemporary furnishings create a serene and sophisticated oasis, and the rooms are designed for privacy. Adults only.”
“This boutique hotel debuted amidst the rapidly gentrifying strip of East Cesar Chavez in 2012 and the hip hood has continued to flourish around the restored 1920s bungalow, elevating its desirable indie locale.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Austin.
“A stylish boutique hotel offering handcrafted hospitality in vibrant East Austin. The owners’ thoughtful approach and attention to detail show in every corner of this inn that was remodeled and modernised from a 1925 house.”
What guests liked
- Top location
- Excellent Wifi
- Free parking
Location
Recent guest reviews
Hotel facilities
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1 April 2024
Very good