Exciting news for Houston visitors and locals! Hotel Daphne, from the acclaimed hospitality brand Bunkhouse Hotels, has just opened in the charming Heights neighborhood, and it’s already making waves, just as the brand's first property in Houston, Hotel Saint Augustine, did when it opened in Montrose in 2024. Inspiring, cozy, innovative, stunning, unique - that’s what the first guests are saying about this new destination in The Heights.
Wondering about the name? Daphne is the nymph in Greek mythology who transformed into a laurel tree to preserve her independence—pretty cool, right? This theme of balancing beauty and strength resonates throughout the hotel, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s both creative and relaxing. Staying true to its name, Hotel Daphne embraces themes of freedom and transformation.
This latest boutique spot in H-Town perfectly blends style and community vibes, featuring an Italian-style restaurant and bar, a cozy library, a private event space, a beautiful courtyard, and a cool retail shop that really showcases the Heights’ unique spirit.
When you walk into the lobby, you’re met by stunning handmade tiles and a gorgeous Murano chandelier, making the space feel welcoming right off the bat. A comfy, circular sofa invites you to kick back and relax, while local artwork adds a personal touch. The intimate library is perfect if you’re looking for some quiet time with a book or if you want to host a small get-together.
Each of the 49 guest rooms and suites offers a chill retreat that combines comfort with a hint of fun. Custom beds are framed in dark wood with headboards upholstered in psychedelic landscape textiles. Mohair seating and arts-and-crafts-style credenzas create a balance between softness and structure. Select rooms include private terraces overlooking the courtyard. Dog-friendly accommodations, room service, and concierge offerings round out a guest experience deeply rooted in thoughtful hospitality.
This creative boutique hotel is the first of its kind in the Heights, where history meets modern flair. Just imagine wandering the charming streets lined with 19th-century bungalows, unique vintage shops, and fantastic restaurants, all while staying in a place that reflects the heart of this vibrant community.
The architecture, created with Blanchard A+D, meshes wonderfully with the Heights’ character, featuring brickwork and design nods to the area’s industrial roots. Plus, the landscape by McDugald Steele features gorgeous oak trees that keep the friendly neighborhood feel.
Ben Ackerley, one of the founders, sums it up perfectly: "The Heights is the coolest neighborhood on earth and has long been starved for a hotel option befitting of its noteworthy architecture, unique history, and artistic spirit. We wanted to create an urban oasis where neighbors and out-of-towners alike have a place to hang out or spend the night in a chic, yet comfortable environment – with great spaces to gather, rotating artwork from our family’s private collection, and Hypsi at the heart of it all."
You can’t miss Hypsi! The hotel’s all-day restaurant and lounge is led by Chef Terrence Gallivan, a two-time James Beard Award nominee and former chef of the Michelin-starred Alto in New York. Offering a modern take on Italian-style aperitivo with Gulf Coast ingredients, Hypsi is inspired by the private drinking clubs that thrived in the Heights during Prohibition, featuring playful, refined fare including a Tableside Mozzarella Cart, handmade pastas, and shareable plates, paired with fantastic Italian wines, spritzes, and craft cocktails.
The décor? Hypsi's interiors blend elegance and eccentricity, featuring deep hues, vintage accents, and a gleaming blueberry lava-stone bar. An adjoining vine-covered courtyard expands the restaurant's footprint. Hypsi aims to be a hangout for everyone—locals and visitors—where you can chill, socialize, and enjoy great food, delicious cocktails, or a cup of coffee.
Now you know! Whether you’re looking for a stylish getaway or just a cozy spot to relax, Hotel Daphne is your new go-to in The Heights. It’s all set up for you to come and enjoy!
Photos by Julie Soefer, courtesy of Hotel Daphne
