The burgeoning hospitality landscape of Texas welcomes a significant new player with the grand opening of the Graduate Dallas Hotel, marking Graduate by Hilton’s inaugural venture into the Lone Star State. This strategic expansion solidifies the brand’s reputation for crafting uniquely themed accommodations, seamlessly blending collegiate charm with local heritage. Situated in Dallas’s prestigious Highland Park neighborhood, directly opposite Southern Methodist University (SMU), this 93-room establishment promises an immersive experience for both visitors and locals, redefining Texas Hospitality with its distinctive character.
The transformation of the former Lumen Hotel into the Graduate Dallas Hotel represents a meticulous undertaking by AJ Capital Partners, renowned for their expertise in destination-driven hospitality. This Nashville-based developer skillfully preserved the building’s original geometric, mid-century architecture while integrating design elements that deeply resonate with the cultural and historical tapestry of its surroundings. The result is a vibrant space that honors its past while embracing a fresh, modern aesthetic, setting a new benchmark for New Hotel Openings in the region.
Every corner of Graduate Dallas tells a story, beginning with its public-facing layout designed to foster genuine community connections. Guests are immediately enveloped in warm, textured interiors that celebrate Texas heritage. Tanned leather and velvet sofas, alongside striking cowhide ottomans and shearling armchairs, invite relaxation, complemented by handwoven textiles. This thoughtful blend of rustic and industrial accents vividly portrays the region’s strong ties to both its land and long-standing traditions, showcasing exceptional Boutique Hotel Design.
The lobby, a true centerpiece, pays homage to local history. Above the hand-carved reception desk, featuring a dynamic design inspired by galloping wild mustangs—a subtle nod to SMU—hangs a large vintage postcard of the historic Exall Lake. Decorative lighting, including whimsical star-shaped pendant lights, and intricate millwork add a sense of dynamism, while native flora like cacti introduce a touch of the outdoors, creating an inviting and culturally rich environment within this premier Dallas Luxury Hotel.
Culinary excellence awaits at Los Charros Tex-Mex Smokehouse, the hotel’s signature restaurant. This lively establishment masterfully merges Tex-Mex and Texas barbecue traditions within an industrial-meets-rustic aesthetic. The name “Los Charros” honors the bold Mexican horsemen, a theme echoed in the design with reclaimed wood, patinated corrugated steel, and textiles mirroring the hotel lobby’s unique style. A communal dining table and saddle-style bar stools reinforce the connection to Texas ranch life, promising a vibrant and authentic dining experience.
The guest rooms at Graduate Dallas continue the hotel’s distinctive design narrative, combining mid-century modern elements with a playful yet patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme. Grass cloth wallcoverings and navy-striped upholstered beds create a contemporary yet cozy ambiance. Custom pillows subtly embroidered with SMU references and locally inspired artwork further enhance the sense of place, ensuring each stay is personalized and deeply connected to the Dallas experience.
Graduate by Hilton’s expansion into the Texas market, exemplified by the Graduate Dallas opening, underscores the brand’s dedication to bringing its unique collegiate-inspired hospitality to dynamic communities. Ben Weprin, founder of Graduate Hotels and CEO of AJ Capital Partners, has long envisioned a Graduate property in this character-rich neighborhood, aiming to reflect its traditions and creative energy through the hotel’s innovative design and storytelling. Plans for another Hilton Texas property in Austin further highlight this commitment.
As a proud participant in the Hilton Honors program, Graduate Dallas offers guests who book directly through Hilton’s preferred channels immediate access to a suite of benefits. These include exclusive discounts, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a flexible payment slider, allowing members to seamlessly combine points and money for their stays, enhancing the value and convenience for loyal patrons.
The debut of Graduate Dallas marks a pivotal moment for Graduate by Hilton in one of the nation’s most vibrant hospitality markets. With its meticulously crafted design, profound commitment to community engagement, and unwavering dedication to quality accommodations, the Graduate Dallas Hotel is poised to become an indispensable destination for visitors exploring the city and its esteemed university, offering a truly memorable and authentic Texas experience.
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