Blending with its Montrose neighborhood like the indigenous and cultivated plants hugging the property’s walkways, the newly built Hotel Saint Augustine opened mid-January 2025. The first Bunkhouse hotel in Houston, Texas, is easily mistaken for garden apartments. Seventy-one guest rooms and suites encompass a tree-lined block. The hotel’s buildings are only two stories tall and also house a lobby, lounge, restaurant and event space. Tucked into a corner of the grounds sits a circular outdoor pool.

© Grant Pifer

Surrounded by 1920’s bungalows painted white and grey, this quiet inner-city area is an unexpected oasis. The Saint Augustine’s understated modern architecture complements the adjacent Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel — two of Houston’s most acclaimed art museums.

Upon our arrival, we valet parked. The short walk to the lobby took us through an entry courtyard past green spaces and a variety of private and public spots to sit. Inside, a wall of bold red lacquered shelves emitted a warm glow. While guests waited their turn, a display of curated products — sunglasses, books, cologne and pieces of art — provided a fun diversion. Sheer curtains divide the adjacent lounge, creating intimate spots to work or talk. Furnishing are vignettes interspersed with satirical pieces (a miniature ram sculpture peeking beneath a side table), and windows provide views of nature.

© Barbara and Jim Twardowski

For our stay, we booked the Atelier suite. Because I use a wheelchair, our accommodation was one that meets ADA specifications. All 15 Atelier suites include private outdoor space. Our covered terrace had cushy seating for four and a glass coffee table. The living room featured a sofa upholstered in a whimsical print, a textured rug, an amoeba-shaped metallic mirror, a minibar and a wet bar. The separate king bedroom had a flat-screen television and a Bluetooth speaker. Sage green tiles were the backdrop to a gorgeous free-standing tub. The matching Calacatta Viola stone countertop and marble floor gleamed.

Two Bunkhouse-designed striped robes and Klur bath products completed the luxurious experience. Our suite also had a roll-in shower.

© Grant Pifer

The on-site restaurant, Perseid, helmed by Houston’s esteemed chef Aaron Bludor, serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. We popped by and shared the smoked salmon dip and homemade chips appetizer while sipping on a Loretto — a cocktail made with a Japanese whiskey.

At breakfast, we split a plate of eggs served with decadent slices of smoked bacon while chatting with a guest from California. She had a wonderful time attending the weekly “Drop the Needle” event in the Lobby Listening Lounge, where vinyl enthusiasts gather to drink and appreciate the music.

© Nicole Franzen

Much of the hotel’s aesthetic was inspired by the de Menil family home and art museum located across the street. Multiple buildings hold changing exhibits.

As my husband and I walked back to the hotel under a blue sky, we discussed our favorite pieces of art and how much we enjoyed our stay. From the opportunities to relax outdoors amid natural landscaping to the world-renowned art just steps from the property, being a guest at Hotel Saint Augustine was a rejuvenating experience for the senses.

© Julie Soefer

Hotel Saint Augustine

4110 Loretto Drive
Houston, TX 77006
tel 832 844 0057