When the Statler Hilton Dallas debuted in 1956, it set the standard in the Texas metropolis. The landmark property’s recent renovation masterminded by local firm Merriman Anderson Architects consolidated its footprint yet kept its splendor intact.
“The design is an ode to the innovators who not only brought the midcentury gem to life in 1956, but who also continue to write its history today,” says principal Adam Jones. While homage is paid to the hotel’s past, a warm materiality shows up in the masculine-inspired lobby thanks to restored black terrazzo floors and existing white marble panels. Guestrooms, too, have been reimagined and condensed from 1,001 rooms to 160 with 289 residences. Soft and inviting, they are imbued with warm wood tones and brass, chrome, and bronze accents, while corridors boast mail chutes that were unearthed from the restoration,
The Pan Asian gastropub Fine China is one of six eateries onsite, but stands out for its romantic reinterpretation of the Jet Age across three dining rooms. The minimalist but refined concept mirrors the Statler’s new overall aesthetic, but features whimsical notes inspired by storefronts and food stalls of Hong Kong markets. Custom light screens crafted from repurposed metal scissor gates and roasted ducks suspended in the window of a duck oven further immerse guests in an authentic street food experience. The restaurant’s 30-foot-long communal table anchors the open interior with wood elements such as walnut bartops and roughhewn cedar beams adding uniformity to the space.
“The balance of the refined minimalism of Asian and midcentury design, and the textures inspired by shop fronts and food stalls create a visual feast for diners,” explains Gale Nall, director of interior design. “A bold floral wallcovering, the nature inspired color story, and the addition of interior plantings bring the outside in.”
Welcome surprises from the original design were also uncovered—most remarkably in the hotel’s former nightclub, where a 40-foot-long Jack Lubin mural was found. The artwork is now located in the lobby in tribute to the romantic roots of the Statler. Says Jones: “The historic renovation has erased the longing for what was and will write its modern-day story, one of continued success and cultural revitalization.”