Transwestern Development Company has selected Auberge Resorts Collection to manage The Birdsall, Auberge Resorts Collection, set to open in 2027 in Houston’s newest River Oaks enclave, The RO. The property is inspired by the architectural heritage of River Oaks and reflects the genuine nature of its community. The property will include a 105-room boutique hotel, 44 world-class private residences and a private members’ club.
“Houston is a particularly meaningful city for Auberge Resorts Collection and for me personally,” Dan Friedkin, chairman, Auberge Resorts Collection, said in a statement. “As we continue Auberge’s strategic expansion into key urban markets, we are thrilled to add a new city property on The Friedkin Group’s home soil and pleased for this opportunity to celebrate what makes Houston such a wonderful destination with every touchpoint of our extraordinary new hotel, residences and private members’ club.”
Designed by global architectural firm, Kohn Pedersen Fox, The Birdsall, Auberge Resorts Collection will have hotel interiors by Roman and Williams and residential interiors by Houston design company Dillon Kyle Architects.
Conceived in the 1920s as 'a distinguished experiment in fine living,’ River Oaks transformed an expanse of oak-lined fields near Buffalo Bayou into a sylvan residential haven blending stately homes with nature. Now in the heart of Houston, many of these homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places were designed by renowned architect, Birdsall Briscoe, for whom Auberge’s first Houston property is named.
“We are delighted to expand Auberge’s urban portfolio with the addition of The Birdsall in Houston’s most exciting and dynamic new luxury destination, The RO,” said Christian Clerc, president and CEO, Auberge Resorts Collection. “The hotel, residences and private members’ club will anchor this captivating new neighborhood and offer the most exceptional, experiential and vibrant hospitality experience in Houston.”
A new, 17-acre urban village, The RO's the walkable public realm includes 75,000 square feet of specialty dining and retail, as well as creative office and community spaces. As The RO’s buzzing social heart, The Birdsall, Auberge Resorts Collection will provide unrivaled access to the community’s convivial gathering spots, bespoke services, and serene gardens. It will also serve as a place removed – a vibrant urban sanctuary with unparalleled accommodations.
The 34-story building’s reclaimed brick exteriors will house the hotel with its 105 guest rooms and comprehensive suite of exceptional hotel amenities. The highest floors will be dedicated to 44 residences and residents-only amenities embracing panoramic skyline and tree canopy views.
Acclaimed New York-based design firm, Roman and Williams, will bring their distinctive approach emphasizing historical depth and craftsmanship to the hotel interiors, including the spacious hotel accommodations. Evoking the laidback grandeur of River Oaks with a distinctive Houston feel, these will range from 413-square-foot Studio Rooms to the signature, 2,548-square-foot Presidential Suite.
Dillon Kyle, one of River Oak’s most respected architects, will design the entire residential experience. His deft touch will be evident throughout the 44 remarkable, two-to-four-bedroom residences: Generous proportions and unwavering attention to centerlines will maximize views and imbue a harmonious sense of balance; floor-to-ceiling windows will ensure a profusion of light; finishes will be of rare quality in keeping with a premier River Oaks home; and expansive terraces will be perfect for relaxation and entertaining. Each three- and four-bedroom residence will have its own private elevator entry, with all residents receiving direct access to amenities exclusively for residents’ use. These will include a covered open-air swimming pool, an outdoor entertainment deck, a summer kitchen, game room and lounge, as well as areas dedicated to wellness, fitness, recreation, and pets.
Claiming more than half of the entire first floor, the private members’ club at The Birdsall, Auberge Resorts Collection will encompass elegant spaces both indoors and out, including a tranquil private garden. A living room tailored as much for socializing as for solitary relaxation will lead to a European-style café, a convivial bar, a library, and a patio terrace ideal for outdoor dining.