2 Starwood Brands Raise the Roof

By Anca Gagiuc, Associate Editor

Aloft Element Austin Downtown

Work is under way on a new hotel in Downtown Austin. White Lodging Services Corp. in partnership with Starwood Hotels & Resorts announced the groundbreaking of the dual-branded Aloft and Element hotel complex at the intersection of 7th and Congress.

“We are excited to be bringing another cool lodging option along with a hip restaurant & bar to the heart of downtown Austin,” said Deno Yiankes, White Lodging’s president & CEO for investments and development. “Starwood’s Aloft and Element brands are fresh and unique and we expect this project to continue the activation of North Congress Avenue.”

The 32-story LEED-certified property will combine the 278-key Aloft Austin Downtown and the 144-key Element Austin Downtown. An affiliate of White Lodging, REI Real Estate and Poe Cos. will own both properties, which will be managed by White Lodging. HKS Inc. is the architect of project, which is scheduled for completion during the early summer of 2017.

The Aloft hotel will feature high ceilings, large windows, platform beds, and walk-in showers. The second floor will feature an open-air terrace. Re:fuel by Aloft and W XYZ bar are planned.

Element Austin Downtown will offer studios and one-bedroom suites with modular furniture, open shelving, spa-inspired bathrooms, and fully equipped kitchens. Moreover, guests will have access to rental bikes. The hotels’ shared amenities will include a fitness center and more than 1,380 square feet of meeting and event space.

Image courtesy of White Lodging