Wow. This instantly became one of the most exciting projects in Austin. I love how they made a conscious effort to incorporate the lines of the rest of the buildings on the street into their own so that it fits in with its environment and activate the street in multiple ways (I love balconies).
To those of you talking about the market, I think Austinites need to move into a different mindset. There's supply and demand and then there's
competition. We don't think we're good enough for competition, but maybe we are. This would be a popular hotel, no matter
what other buildings get built. The location and sexiness of it would give it an appeal of its own. And don't forget that there are different markets. The Fairmont is going to be incredibly expensive. J.W. Marriott probably moderately less so, but still really high. It all depends on what price level we're talking about here. Not to mention that if it's between this and The Fairmont and J.W. Marriott and this is $10-20 cheaper? Wouldn't you stay here instead? I might choose Aloft above the others
even if they're the same price because of the location/surroundings. It's more central. And, I mean, for God's sake, look at it! It's beautiful!